Job Description
Company Description
At CERN, the European Organisation 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
As a Procurement Officer, you will be involved in a full range of activities related to the Organisation’s procurement of supplies in high technical domains.
Functions
- Advise and support the Organisation in identifying procurement strategies ensuring cost efficiency and quality.
- Carry out research to identify and participate in the qualification of potential suppliers.
- Prepare price enquiries, market surveys and invitations to tender in accordance with the Organisation’s Procurement Rules and on an international basis.
- Analyse offers, prepare proposals for adjudications and submit these to CERN’s Management.
- Ensure the preparation, negotiation and follow-up of numerous orders and contracts.
- Contribute to the advancement of CERN’s procurement techniques and tools, influencing their modernisation and optimisation.
- Foster and sustain a wide-ranging network of relationships across diverse levels, both internally and externally, while actively representing CERN in global business events.
Qualifications
Master’s degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Economics, Purchasing, Law, Engineering, computer science or a related field.
Experience:
- Experience in procurement, with a strong understanding of source to contract processes and procurement systems.
- Experience in collaborating with diverse teams and senior stakeholders.
- Experience in setting category and project level strategies and in executing plans in a matrix-driven decision-making process.
- Experience in public procurement is desired.
Technical competencies:
- Definition of tendering and contracting strategies.
- Negotiating with external suppliers and service contract providers.
- Drafting of commercial documents for a supply or a service contract, including reviewing commercial contracts in high technical fields.
- Reviewing and providing advice on technical specifications in high technical fields.
- Managing and following up commercial aspects of contracts, including critical examination and detailed analysis of commercial offers, claims and disputes.
Behavioural competencies:
- Achieving Results: driving work / projects along and seeing them through to their conclusion.
- Managing Self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
- Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
- Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.
- Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
Language skills:
Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.
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 Organisation. 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 04.04.2026 at 23:59 CEST.
Employment Conditions
Contract type: Limited duration contract (2 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.
Working Hours: 40 hours per week
Job Flexibility: Hybrid
Job grade: 6-7
Job reference: IPT-PI-SU-2026-53-LD
Field of work: Support Services (Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement)
Benchmark Job Title: Procurement Professional
Global Benefits
- 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 circumstances.
- A relocation package (installation grant, removal, travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
- Possibility to extend your contract up to 8 years + eligibility for indefinite contract tenure.
Overview of CERN - Discover a world where the impossible is made possible!
At CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, we are pushing the frontiers of science and technology. Our groundbreaking work brings together not only physicists but also a diverse range of professionals from engineering, technical, scientific, and administrative fields. Together, we foster an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.
Every day, we face exciting new challenges and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research that shapes our understanding of the universe. We meet these challenges through the diverse perspectives within our teams, ensuring every contribution is valued and driving our shared sense of inclusion and purpose. Diversity is a core value of CERN since its foundation, and it remains central to our mission and continued success.
If you are ready to be part of a dynamic, inclusive community pushing the boundaries of knowledge, CERN is the place where your curiosity and skills can thrive. Be part of our mission to uncover what lies at the heart of the universe! TAKE PART!
More information about us, here: careers.cern
