Automation Technician (SCE-SAM-IN-2025-55-LD)

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. Find out more on http://home.cern.

Job Description

Introduction

Are you a skilled Automation Technician with experience in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as electrical systems? Do you want to contribute to the operation and development of automation systems for HVAC, sanitary, and electrical equipment at CERN, the world’s largest particle physics laboratory? Join us and bring your expertise in automation to a dynamic and innovative environment, playing a key role in CERN’s environmental goals and the well-being of everyone on campus.

You will join the Infrastructure Section (IN) within the Site Asset Management (SAM) Group of the Site and Civil Engineering (SCE) Department. This department is responsible for the operation, maintenance, design, tendering, and execution of HVAC, electrical, and sanitary installations across CERN.

Functions

As an Automation technician, you will join a dedicated team focused on continuous improvement and professional growth. Under the supervision of the Automation Park Manager, you will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Designing, modeling, operating, maintaining, and upgrading industrial automation systems for HVAC, sanitary, and electrical installations.
• Troubleshooting and resolving issues with automation systems, equipment, and communication systems, working closely with the technical team, contractors and other stakeholders.
• Ensuring that all automation work meets relevant quality standards, project specifications, and deadlines.
• Monitoring the installation, commissioning, and performance of automated HVAC, sanitary, and electrical systems, ensuring their efficient and safe operation, and preparing dashboards and reports.
• Verifying and/or configuring the settings, presets, and configuration of SAIA PDC 3 controllers.
• Integrating the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA).
• Creating control loop diagram and automation schematics, as well as instrument lists, and verifying their proposer operation.
• Defining and drafting documentation for automated systems.

Qualifications

Technical certificate or general secondary education or equivalent relevant experience in the field of: automation or industrial controls or a related field.

Experience:

The experience required for this post is:

• Proven experience in building automation and control systems related to comfort, such as BMS (Building Management Systems), energy efficiency, automated lighting, and motorized blinds.
• Experience with commissioning automated systems and conducting functional tests.
• Proficiency in PLC programming, industrial communications, and middleware.
• Experience in the electrical diagrams.
• Knowledge of Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) tools would be an advantage 

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of programming techniques and languages: PLCs with PG5 or CODESYS 3.5 software (IEC 61131-3) and DALI, KNX (ETS 6).
• Installation, operation and maintenance of industrial data-acquisition, monitoring and control systems.
• Functional analysis of control systems.
• Construction, test and installation of electromechanical equipment and systems.
• Knowledge and application of advanced controls (non-linear, adaptative, predictive, etc.).

Behavioural competencies:

• Communicating Effectively: demonstrating a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addressing issues of conflict constructively Listening actively to others and letting others speak.
• Achieving Results: having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Working in Teams: understanding when teamwork is required to achieve the best results; including others accordingly and sharing information.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements; demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supporting initiatives for change.
• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.

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 07.05.2025 at 23:59 CEST.

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

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.
• Stand-by duty, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 3-4

Job reference: SCE-SAM-IN-2025-55-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Civil Engineering Technician