Transport and Handling Specialist (EN-THE-HH-2026-196-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

The Engineering Department (EN) provides CERN with the Engineering expertise, Infrastructure Systems and Technical Coordination necessary for the design, installation, operation, maintenance and dismantling phases of the CERN accelerator complex and its experimental facilities. 
The position is within the Transport and Handling Engineering Group (EN-THE), responsible for preparing, organising and coordinating all transport and handling operations for the CERN accelerators and experiments. The Group also manages the transport of thousands of conventional and unconventional items, chemical and radioactive products each year.  
As a Transport and Handling Specialist  in EN-THE, you will be part of the Heavy Handling (EN-HE-HH) Section, which is in charge for organising and supervising transport, handling and lifting operations at CERNs accelerators complex, experimental areas and industrial buildings both underground and in surface premises.

Functions

As a Transport and Handling Specialist in the EN-THE-HH Section, you will be part of a team of 10 people (technical engineers and technicians) in charge of:

• Coordinating transport and handling operations for the Accelerator complex, Experiments, and surface premises.
• Coordinating and planning meetings to evaluate technical and resource needs. 
• Assessing and proposing possible handling and transport solutions.
• Defining technical and safety requirements for the transport of dangerous goods and ensuring compliance with ADR principles and applicable regulations.
• Specific operations by using customised equipment, analysing related working procedures and Safety assessments.
• Developing technical specifications, work procedures and contract documentation for transport and handling activities.
• Supervising contractor activities on site, ensuring Safety during the operations in both conventional and radioactive environments.
• Collaborating with the EN-THE design office to develop custom handling tools and conduct logistic studies.
• Collaborating with Radiation Protection Services to establish/redact the Work Dose Planning and Radiological work permit (DIMR).
• Performing handling operations in specific situations.

Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Logistics, Mechanics or Electromechanics or a related field.

ADR certificate would be an additional asset. Driving and operator licences for electrical overhead travelling cranes, industrial trucks, mobile elevating platforms, etc would be an additional asset.

Experience:

• Extensive experience in heavy handling and transport operations.
• Proven experience in worksite logistics. 
• Proven experience in technical contract supervision.
• Proven experience of work in a radioactive environment will be an asset. 
• Basic knowledge of remote-handling systems.
• A thorough understanding of the principles of ADR regulations in order to identify, interpret and communicate the requirements applicable to the transport of dangerous goods would be an asset.

Technical competencies:

• Operation and maintenance of lifting and handling equipment.
• Operation and maintenance of transport systems.
• Definition and installation of transport systems.
• Transport of dangerous goods.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Solving Problems: anticipating obstacles; assessing alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan.
• Working in Teams: working well in groups and readily fitting into a team; participating fully and taking an active role in team activities.
• Working in the Interest of the Organization: following rules and regulations and encouraging others to do the same.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

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 18.10.2026 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.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 4-5

Job reference: EN-THE-HH-2026-196-LD

Field of work: Mechanical Engineering

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Technical 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