Liaison Officer for Local Community Engagement

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:

Are you passionate about building strong and inclusive relationships with local communities and civil society, fostering dialogue in support of science?

Do you thrive in dynamic environments where you can contribute to research projects with national and international impact?

CERN is undertaking studies for a proposed next-generation research infrastructure that would extend over the Franco-Swiss border. Engagement and dialogue with local communities and civil society is essential in such an initiative for the future of basic research.

In this context, we are seeking a proactive and skilled professional to drive local community engagement efforts, accompanying local outreach initiatives in the context of the development of the Organization's upcoming projects.

You will join the International Relations Sector (IR), Education, Communications and Outreach Group (ECO) that is responsible for maintaining support for CERN's scientific and societal missions from all its stakeholders; generating public engagement with CERN's activities and with fundamental research; fostering community-building within the international particle physics community; and raising awareness of CERN's societal impact.

Functions:

As Liaison Officer for Local Community Engagement, you will play a central role in strengthening CERN's relationships with local communities and stakeholders, responding to civil society enquiries helping CERN to be and remain a transparent, trusted and responsive neighbour.

You will:

• Develop and implement engagement activities to promote mutual understanding and long-term collaboration with local communities.
• Establish and maintain contacts with civil society representatives, community leaders, identifying opportunities for dialogue, synergies and joint initiatives in France and Switzerland.
• Engage actively with local communities to better understand their needs, concerns and expectations, and ensure these perspectives are taken into account in CERN's activities.
• Lead public dialogue efforts and represent the Organization in engagements with those stakeholders.
• Serve as the first point of contact for incoming requests from local individuals and groups; ensure timely and effective responses that reflect CERN's values and responsibilities.
• Plan and coordinate events, site visits, and other initiatives that promote dialogue, inclusivity and transparency; organise regular meetings and information sessions to foster ongoing community involvement.
• Contribute to the development of content for newsletters, and other communication tools.
• Prepare official reports and presentations related to the area of work.

Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of International Relations, Public Relations or Administration, Sociology, Journalism or Communication, or STEM with a science communication profile or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated extensive experience in stakeholder and community engagement or liaison roles, ideally within large-scale scientific, engineering or infrastructure projects, managing community and multilateral relations, with a track record of success.
• Solid understanding of nonprofit networks and/or substantial experience in community or nonprofit organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with authorities and senior officials, including local, civil society groups and national representatives.    
• Proven capacity to contribute to complex projects and adapting frameworks to meet unique challenges.
• Solid public speaking experience.
• Extensive experience in media relations, including speaking to journalists, supporting interviews, and participating in or coordinating media visits.    
• Demonstrated experience in writing engaging, concise and accessible texts on complex scientific subjects in both CERN's official languages of French and English.

Technical competencies:

• Stakeholder relationship management: and community engagement.
• Strategic communications planning.
• Implementation of vision and strategic agility.
• Participatory processes and community dialogue techniques.
• Strong organisational, interpersonal and multicultural skills.
• Strong listening skills, with the ability to actively hear and react to community concerns.

Behavioural competencies:

• Demonstrating Accountability: working conscientiously and reliably; delivering on promises.
• Creating Vision and Strategic Partnerships: demonstrating respect, diplomacy and tact with external partners.
• Communicating Effectively: delivering presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusting style and content to the audience; responding calmly and confidently to questions.
• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information.

Language skills:

Spoken and written both English and 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 at 23:59 CET.

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:

• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• Shift work, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• A valid driving licence.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: IR-ECO-CE LD

Field of work: International Relations

Benchmark Job Title: Communications/Public Relations /External Relations Professional