Professional Firefighter (HSE-FRS-2026-104-LD)

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, physicists and engineers are probing the fundamental structure of the universe. Using the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments, they study the basic constituents of matter - fundamental particles that are made to collide together at close to the speed of light. The process gives physicists clues about how particles interact, and provides insights into the fundamental laws of nature.

Introduction:

As a firefighter at CERN, you will work 12-hour shifts with 24/7 readiness, responding to emergencies while ensuring safety through monitoring, inspections, and specialised rescue operations.

You will also maintain equipment, support fire prevention efforts, and collaborate with French and Swiss emergency services, all while engaging in continuous training to sustain peak operational performance.

Functions:

After completing an initial 10-week on-the-job training program tailored to CERN’s environment, you will join your assigned team and take on the following responsibilities:

• Emergency response: Perform firefighting, medical emergency response, and rescue operations.
• Safety Control Room operations: Monitor and manage emergency dispatch activities.
• Technical inspections & patrols: Conduct safety checks and ensure compliance with fire regulations.
• Specialised assistance: Provide support in confined space operations, hazardous material handling, and transport missions involving special risks.
• Training & exercises: Participate in regular drills and continuous professional development in line with the Fire and Rescue Service’s training plan.
• Fire prevention & awareness: Engage in fire safety initiatives, training sessions, and collaborative safety projects.
• Equipment maintenance: Ensure the upkeep of firefighting and medical emergency equipment, including fire extinguishers and hydrants.
• Project participation: Contribute to ongoing projects within the Fire and Rescue Service.
• Administrative & operational support: Assist with necessary administrative duties and team-wide responsibilities.
• Physical training: Participate in both individual and group fitness programs.

You hold official diplomas and/or certifications confirming your education and training as a firefighter.

These diplomas and certificates are issued by a public body or a private body acting under the delegation of a public service or a related field.

Experience:

• You currently work, and have demonstrated experience, as a professional firefighter in a public or company fire service.
• Experience in control room or ambulance settings would be an advantage.

Technical competencies:

• Emergency first response: Firefighting, rescue operations, and emergency medical care.
• Hazardous materials response operations: Response operations for hazardous material incidents.
• Teaching and training: Providing training to fellow firefighters and the general public.
• Fire safety inspections: Conducting technical assessments and compliance checks.
• Firefighting operations: Interior firefighting and fire engine operation.

Behavioural competencies:

• Building Relationships: relating well to all people regardless of category/level within the Organization.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements. Adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information. Acknowledging the contribution of colleagues. Recognising their limitations and offering support to overcome their difficulties.
• Demonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisions.
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

The ability to understand and speak the other language in everyday/emergency situations is an advantage. CERN offers language courses to quickly master both French and English.

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organization. Employing a diverse workforce is central to our success. We welcome applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.

This vacancy will be filled as soon as possible, and applications should normally reach us no later than 28.08.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions:

Contract type: Limited duration contract (5 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Participation in a regular stand-by duty, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Residence in the immediate vicinity of the Organization's installations.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Shift work, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Exposure as operational firefighter.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 2-3

Job reference: HSE-FRS-2026-104-LD

Field of work: Health, Safety and Environment

Benchmark Job Title: Firefighter

Global Benefits

• A competitive salary (tax free), increasing in line with your years of relevant experience.
• 30 days of paid leave per year plus 2 weeks annual closure.
• Coverage by CERN’s comprehensive health insurance scheme (for yourself, your spouse and children), and membership of the CERN Pension Fund.
• Family, child and infant monthly allowances depending on your individual circumstances.
• A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.

Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.

If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!

More information about us, here: careers.cern