Introduction:
Ever wanted to push robotics and automation to their limits, designing solutions for maintenance and operations in one of the world’s most challenging environments, the Future Circular Collider (FCC)?
At CERN, you’ll lead projects from concept and apply your robotics expertise to design, develop, and integrate advanced, large-scale robotic systems. If you relish tough problems and real impact, join the Mechatronics, Robotics & Operation section and realize your potential. Take part!
You will join the Beams Department (BE), the Controls Electronics and Mechatronics Group (CEM), and in particular the Mechatronics, Robotics and Operation section (MRO), responsible for the design and the operation of the mechatronics of the CERN accelerators beam intercepting devices (BIDs) as well as the development of robotic solutions for remote inspections and tele-manipulation in hazardous areas.?
Functions:
- Lead the requirements analysis for automation and robotics systems in the FCC project, in close collaboration with FCC stakeholders.
- Conduct cost–benefit assessments to support strategic decisions on robotics maintenance tasks.
- Drive the design, simulation and the proof of concept of advanced robotic and automation systems for inspection and maintenance within the FCC.
- Ensure all designed solutions meet operational performance, safety and reliability objectives.
- Direct a small team of Engineers and students in designing cutting-edge robotic devices, end-effectors, tools and intervention procedures to enhance remote operation and reduce human exposure to hazardous environments.
Master's degree or PhD or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Robotics, mechatronics, electrical or electronic engineering or a related field.
Experience:
- Experience in robotics project management, including requirement definition and traceability, cost–benefit analysis and effective team leadership.
- Proven ability to design and simulate complex robotic systems, covering electro-mechanical architecture, software integration and control systems.
- Expertise in the design and simulation of electro-mechanical interfaces, robotic end-effectors and tooling for diverse operational environments.
- Hands-on experience in the installation, operation and maintenance of robotic systems, ensuring performance, safety and reliability.
- Demonstrated success in the remote operation of robotic systems within complex or hazardous environments, with a strong focus on system performance, reliability and availability monitoring.
- Excellent ability to convey complex technical topics effectively across interdisciplinary teams.
Technical competencies:
- Design and construction of mechatronic and robotic systems.
- Integration of robotic systems in complex environments.
- Functional analysis of robotic systems.
- Knowledge and application of numerical modelling in robotic designs.
- Knowledge and application of automation and control theory.
Behavioural competencies:
- Working in Teams: gaining trust and collaboration from others.
- Communicating Effectively: ensuring that information, procedures and decisions are appropriately documented.
- Demonstrating Accountability: making appropriate use of the Organization's resources.
- Achieving Results: defining clear objectives, milestones and deliverables before initiating work/ project.
- Solving Problems: adopting a pragmatic approach; understanding the value of adopting generic rather than "gold -plated" technical solutions.
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 01.02.2026 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
Job grade: 6-7
Job reference: BE-CEM-MRO-2025-246-LD
Field of work: Software Engineering and IT
Benchmark Job Title: Computing Engineer
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.