Technical Infrastructure Control Room Operator

Company Description

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.

Job Description

Introduction:

At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we rely on a vast network of critical infrastructure to keep the particle accelerator chain and some of the most advanced scientific experiments in the world running.

As a Technical Infrastructure Control Room Operator, you will be part of the 24/7 shift crew in our Control Centre, monitoring and operating large-scale technical systems that power and protect our facilities and accelerators. From the 400 kV high-voltage network to essential 48 V safety systems, cooling and ventilation plants, IT infrastructure, and safety installations — you will ensure these systems run smoothly and respond rapidly when issues arise.

Your decisions will help safeguard uninterrupted particle beam production and the success of groundbreaking physics experiments.

When major technical incidents occur, you will coordinate the initial response, working closely with experts and following CERN's operational priorities.

This is a unique opportunity to combine operational excellence with contributing to science at the frontiers of human knowledge.?

Why join us?

This is more than an operator role - it's a chance to work in a unique environment, operating complex infrastructure on an industrial scale in service of cutting-edge science.

Functions:

• Monitor and operate diverse systems via an integrated control platform, consolidating alarms from cooling, ventilation, electrical distribution, access control, IT, and safety systems.
• Use specialised and general SCADA systems to perform remote diagnostics and operate infrastructure installations.
• Log incidents, generate and update work orders, and produce event reports for maintenance teams.
• Coordinate with physicists, users, and maintenance staff by phone or in person to share incident information and organise interventions.
• Contribute to developing new procedures, tools, and processes to improve system performance and operational reliability.

Qualifications

Higher Technical Diploma or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Electrical Engineering or Power Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics, Electromechanics, Heating, Cooling, and Ventilation (HVAC), Industrial Maintenance and Automation, Instrumentation and Control Systems, Industrial Electronics, Process Control, or a related field.

Experience:

• Practical experience in a control room environment or in maintenance of complex technical systems is highly relevant; candidates with strong expertise in at least one area are encouraged to apply.
• Hands-on experience in one or more of the following domains is valuable: electrical power systems, electromechanics, heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC), industrial maintenance and automation, instrumentation, or control systems.
• Experience with industrial-scale infrastructure and the ability to respond quickly and effectively to technical incidents is a major asset.

Technical competencies:

• Operation and maintenance of electrical circuits and networks: (Electrical Distribution).
• Operation and maintenance of HVAC plants and networks: (Fluids, Cooling & Ventilation).
• Operation and maintenance of cooling water systems: (Fluids, Cooling & Ventilation).
• Operation and maintenance of electromechanical equipment and systems: (Electro-mechanical Equipment).
• Installation, operation and maintenance of industrial data-acquisition, monitoring and control systems: (Automation & Control Engineering).

Behavioural competencies:

• Managing Self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
• Working in Teams: cooperating constructively with others in the pursuit of team goals; balancing personal goals with team goals.
• Solving Problems: anticipating obstacles; assessing alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan.
• Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
• Demonstrating Accountability: taking responsibility for own actions and decisions.

Language skills:

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

Additional Information

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:

• Shift work, including nights, Sundays and official holidays.
• A valid driving licence.
• Shift work
• Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

Job grade: 3-4

Job reference: BE-OP-TI LD

Field of work: Electrical or Electronics Engineering

Benchmark Job Title: Accelerator/Industrial Process Operations Technician