Junior Automation & Controls Engineer

Job Description

Join our team of control and automation experts and contribute to the development of applications based on the UNICOS-CPC framework, which is used CERN-wide for the development of PLC-based control systems. You will work alongside process and equipment experts from across CERN to develop, test, commission and maintain control systems across a wide range of domains.

Your responsibilities

• Develop, commission and maintain control applications based on the UNICOS-CPC framework for standardised PLC application generation, supporting Siemens and Schneider PLCs.
• Work closely with process and equipment experts to specify, implement, commission and support control systems that meet their operational needs.
• Contribute to the maintenance and further development of tooling and testing infrastructure used to support application development.
• Contribute to the evaluation of emerging automation technologies and help shape the next generation of control at CERN.

More information here.

Your profile

• Background and/or interest in the field of automation and control.
• Basic hands-on experience developing, testing or troubleshooting PLC programs using IEC 61131-3 languages.
• Knowledge and experience in industrial communication protocols would be an asset.
• Initial experience with Python.

Skills

• Strong problem-solving and technical communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of control theory and automation principles.
• Knowledge of PLC programming using IEC 61131-3 languages.
• Knowledge of Continuous Integration based on GitLab CI would be an asset.
• Spoken and written English, with a commitment to learn French.

Eligibility criteria:

• You are a national of a CERN Member or Associate Member State.
• By the application deadline, you have a maximum of two years of professional experience since graduation in Automation, Control Engineering (or a related field) and your highest educational qualification is either a Bachelor's or Master's degree.
• You have never had a CERN fellow or graduate contract before.
• Applicants without University degree are not eligible.
• Applicants with a PhD are not eligible.

Qualifications

Additional Information

Job closing date: 16.11.2026 at 23:59 CET.

Contract duration: 24 months, with a possible extension up to 36 months maximum.

Working hours: 40 hours per week

Job flexibility: Hybrid

Target start date: 01-January-2027

This position involves:

• A valid driving licence.

Job reference: BE-ICS-ACS-2026-247-GRAE

Field of work: Data Science, AI & Analytics

Benchmark job: 200020 - Computing Engineer

Global Benefits

• A monthly net stipend of either 5266 or 5793 Swiss Francs per month depending on your degree.
• 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 and travel expenses) depending on your individual circumstances.
• Possibility to extend your contract up to 36 months.
• On-the-job and formal training including language classes.

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

Compensation: 5266 to 5793 (CHF) (MONTHLY)