Chemical Engineer; TE-VSC-SCC--LD

Introduction:

You will join a multidisciplinary team developing the next generation of high-performance superconducting radio frequency (SRF) cavities. In this role, after dedicated training in the team, you will develop and optimise advanced surface treatments essential to their performance, including chemical polishing, electrochemical polishing and electroplating. You will also contribute to the design, procurement, commissioning, and acceptance of a new surface treatment facility dedicated to SRF components.

• Develop, operate and optimise chemical and electrochemical surface-processing techniques for SRF accelerating cavities and their subassemblies.
• Optimise existing processes by developing and conducting laboratory-scale chemical and electrochemical trials, applying multiphysics simulation tools to improve process performance and reproducibility.
• Define technical requirements and coordinate the design, procurement, testing, commissioning and acceptance of new equipment and facilities for the chemical and electrochemical surface finishing of SRF components.
• Develop, validate, document and implement operating procedures, process specifications and quality control methods for the surface finishing of SRF components.
• Work closely with engineers, physicists, technicians, safety specialists and external suppliers, communicating results and technical recommendations through reports, reviews and project meetings.
• Ensure that all necessary safety measures and documentation are kept up to date and effectively implemented across existing and new processes and facilities.

Master's Degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Chemical Engineering or a related field.

• Strong background in applied electrochemistry and corrosion.
• Field experience in modelling, simulation, developing and optimising chemical or electrochemical treatment processes.
• Good knowledge of chemical engineering unitary operations and chemical process safety.
• Familiarity with electrochemical characterisation techniques.
• Knowledge of materials science, covering both organic and inorganic materials.
• Knowledge of wet surface finishing processes and initial practical experience would be considered an asset.
• Knowledge of metallurgy would be considered an asset.

• Knowledge of electrochemistry, corrosion and protection.
• Knowledge of metals and alloys: composition, structure, properties, heat treatments.
• Knowledge and application of thermodynamics and energetics.
• Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in fluid mechanics and/or heat transfer.

• Working in Teams: contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues.
• Communicating Effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
• Demonstrating Accountability: working conscientiously and reliably; delivering on promises.
• Working in the Interest of the Organization: actively promoting safety and encouraging others to do the same; respecting safety rules and procedures.
• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.

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

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 30.09.2026 at 23:59 CEST.

• 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
• Job grade: 6-7
• Job reference: TE-VSC-SCC--LD
• Field of work:
  Chemical, Materials & Process Engineering
• Benchmark
  
  Job Title:
  
  Material Science/Chemical Engineer/Chemist

• A valid driving licence.
• Shift work, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Exposure to carcinogens, mutagens or agents toxic to reproduction.

Given the occupational health risks associated with this position, the selected candidate must obtain medical clearance before a contract offer is confirmed.

• 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