Target Materials Engineer (SY-STI-2026-88-LD)

At CERN, the European Organisation 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

Are you a skilled and highly motivated mechanical engineer? Would you like to contribute to the forefront of nuclear science and to the fight against cancer by supporting the production of the rarest nuclei and radionuclides for medical research?

Join the multidisciplinary target and radioactive beam production team, which applies cutting edge mass separation techniques to produce high purity radioactive ion beams for fundamental science, nuclear physics and medical research. You will operate these systems and lead their further development, enabling the production of innovative target materials and the delivery of radioactive ion beams.

Functions

You will:

• Design, operate, maintain, and improve mechanical systems and target materials for radioactive ion beam production at CERN-MEDICIS and ISOLDE.
• Support reliable operation of CERN-MEDICIS isotope separators, mass separators, and associated infrastructure.
• Ensure safe, compliant operation of laboratory installations (e.g. glove boxes, fume hoods, hot cells) and handling unsealed radioactive materials according to radiation protection requirements.
• Lead the CERN-MEDICIS planning, documentation, monitoring, and optimisation of production activities and workflows.
• Support nanomaterials laboratory activities and materials development, particularly in nuclear nanomaterials.
• Coordinate key steps of the medical isotope production process, from target preparation to quality control and shipment.

Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Mechanical, material or nuclear engineering or a related field.

 

Experience:

• Proven experience with handling unsealed radioactive materials in controlled laboratory environments.
• Quality assurance and control, system validation, project planning, risk assessment, and technical reporting.
• Materials development (e.g. nanomaterials), including safe handling practices.
• Developing and documenting procedures, protocols, and safety measures.
• Operating complex scientific equipment (e.g. mass spectrometers).
• Relevant experience from research, industry, or other regulated environments is welcome.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of metals and alloys: composition, structure, properties, heat treatments.
• Knowledge of Radiation Safety.
• Operation and support of experimental facilities.
• Analysis and optimisation of accelerator performance.
• Operation and maintenance of mechanical equipment and systems.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Solving Problems: assimilating large quantities of information, identifying key issues and formulating conclusions clearly and concisely.
• Working in Teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Communicating Effectively: demonstrating a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addressing issues of conflict constructively.
• Learning and Sharing Knowledge: sharing knowledge and expertise freely and willingly with others; coaching others to ensure knowledge transfer.

Language skills:

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

Eligibility and closing date:

Diversity has been an integral part of CERN's mission since its foundation and is an established value of the Organisation. 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 10.05.2026 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.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
• Radiation worker, category A.
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SY-STI-2026-88-LD

Field of work: Mechanical Engineering

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Engineer

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