Mechanical Designer-Drafter (EN-MME-EDS-2025-141-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

The Engineering Department (EN) pushes forward the limits of technology to provide innovative research tools to the physics and engineering worldwide community. Within the EN Department, the Mechanical and Materials Engineering Group (MME) provides the CERN community with specific engineering solutions combining mechanical design, fabrication, and material sciences.

As a designer-drafter within EN-MME, you will join CERN largest Design Office, studying new equipment and mechanical systems for high-energy physics projects, particle accelerators and detectors, relying on computer-aided design (CAD).

Are you passionate by mechanics and innovative designs at the forefront of technology? Are you skilled in computer-aided design? This is an opportunity for you: you will be part of a multidisciplinary team designing, manufacturing and testing high-tech components for present and future CERN accelerators and detectors. CERN, take part! 

Functions

As a Designer-Drafter in MME Design Office, you will be in charge of:

• The analysis of design requirements based on functional specifications and other relevant technical information.
• The execution of design studies of mechanical components, assemblies, tooling, equipment integration and layout.
• The creation of detailed 3D models and technical drawings (including specification, detail, manufacturing, assembly, installation, as-built and verification drawings), in collaboration with CERN manufacturing and materials experts and in accordance with applicable design and drafting standards.
• The preparation of the project documentation in line with the design office quality assurance procedures.
• The follow-up, in close interaction with other teams and services, of the manufacturing, assembling and installation of mechanical components.
• The preparation of presentations, technical reports, engineering specifications and calculation notes, as required.

Higher technical diploma or equivalent relevant experience in the field of mechanical design and engineering or a related field.

Experience:

• Experience as a mechanical designer within a design office, with hands-on involvement in mechanical dimensioning and using both analytical methods and standard numerical analysis tools.
• Solid experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software for mechanical engineering applications.
• Experience in the production of technical drawings of mechanical components and systems, ideally in accordance with ISO Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS) standards for drawing dimensioning and tolerancing.

Technical competencies:

• Design and construction of machines, the ability to analyse and solve basic mechanical engineering problems using the strength of materials and materials selection principles.
• Design and analysis of mechanical structures with basic knowledge of numerical and analytical calculation methods.
• Production of 2D drawings and 3D models in compliance with relevant standards for drawing dimensioning and tolerancing, in particular ISO Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS).
• Assembly of mechanical structures and equipment, knowledge of manufacturing methods and processes such as machining, forming, joining (e.g. welding, brazing).
• Configuration and use of information management systems, the ability to effectively use Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools.

Behavioural competencies:

• Managing self:
  • working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting;
  • taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen;
  • remaining objective, focused and productive in a stressful environment;
  • focusing on solutions rather than problems.
• Building relationships:
  • showing courtesy and consideration in dealings with others;
  • understanding how individual differences bring added value to the Organisation;
  • promoting complementarities;
  • accepting others in a non-judgemental way and taking their point of view into account.
• Working in teams:
  • cooperating constructively with others in the pursuit of team goals;
  • balancing personal goals with team goals.
• Solving problems:
  • identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them;
  • Producing workable and timely solutions that meet requirements.
• Demonstrating flexibility:
  • adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements;
  • being willing to work on different projects simultaneously.

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 06.08.2025 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

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• A valid driving licence.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.
• Shift work and stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Job grade: 3-4

Job reference: EN-MME-EDS-2025-141-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Mechanical Technician