Mechanical Technician for CMS (EP-CMS-IC-2026-226-GRAE)

We are looking for early‑career graduates to join CERN's CMS experiment as Mechanical Technicians. CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, operates the world‑leading particle‑physics facilities and the CMS detector, where you will work alongside technicians, engineers and physicists on cutting‑edge hardware projects. The role is split between two teams. In the ECAL group you will help extract and reinstall ECAL super‑modules, prepare and operate the tooling required for these operations, carry out mechanical work during the refurbishment of the modules (including replacement of cooling fittings) and support the installation of services, electronics and related logistics. In the Technical Coordination group you will contribute to mechanical upgrades, maintenance and repairs of the CMS detector and its infrastructure, manufacture and assemble parts, adapt technical drawings with CATIA, and take part in heavy‑lifting tasks using strand jacks, air pads or hydraulic jacks while ensuring the equipment is regularly checked and maintained. Applicants must have hands‑on experience in building and assembling mechanical components, familiarity with detector‑type assemblies that involve cooling connections, pressure testing or leak detection, and competence with both machine tools and hand tools. Experience handling large, heavy or delicate equipment and using the drafting software CATIA is required. You should also know manufacturing techniques for mechanical parts, understand the operation and upkeep of cooling‑water systems, and be able to work safely with heavy‑machinery handling systems. Proficiency in spoken and written English or French (with a commitment to learn the other language), a valid driving licence, and citizenship of a CERN Member or Associate State are mandatory. The position is open to candidates who hold a general secondary‑education diploma and have no more than two years of professional experience in mechanics or a related field since graduation, and who have never held a CERN fellow or graduate contract. The job offers a fully onsite, 40‑hour‑per‑week schedule in the CERN campus, with the possibility of night, weekend or holiday work when needed. You will work in radiation‑controlled zones and underground installations, and residence near the site is expected. The contract lasts 24 months with a potential extension to 36 months, providing a stable environment for professional growth within a diverse, inclusive scientific community. What the role asks for: - Hands‑on mechanical construction and assembly experience - Experience with detector assembly, cooling connections and leak testing - Proficiency using machine tools, hand tools and CATIA drafting software - Knowledge of manufacturing techniques for mechanical parts and cooling‑water system maintenance - Valid driving licence and citizenship of a CERN Member or Associate State - Up to two years post‑graduation experience in mechanics or related field - General secondary‑education diploma - Spoken and written English **or** French, with commitment to learn the other language