Procurement and Contracts Officer (IPT-PI-SU-2026-184-LD)

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. 

Introduction

As part of the Industry, Procurement and Knowledge Transfer (IPT) Department, you will join the Procurement and Industrial Services Group (PI), which is responsible for procuring all supplies and services for the Organization, ensuring that the specified and contractual technical, delivery and performance requirements are met at the lowest possible overall cost whilst achieving balanced industrial returns for CERN Member States and respecting CERN's Procurement Rules. The Group monitors and reports procurement activities and statistics to CERN Management and Member State representatives.

Functions

In the role of Procurement and Contracts Officer, you will:

• Advise and support the Organization 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 Organization'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. 

Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Economics, Purchasing, Law, Engineering, or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in procurement of technical supplies or services with a strong understanding of source-to-contract processes and procurement systems.
• Experience in setting category or procurement project-level strategies.
• Experience in executing plans in a matrix-driven decision-making process.
• Experience in collaborating with diverse teams and senior stakeholders.
• Experience in public procurement and contract management 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.
• Contract management: managing the commercial aspects of contracts, including the critical examination of offers and the handling of claims and disputes.
• Reviewing technical documents for a supply or a service contract.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving Results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations.
• Managing Self: taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
• Communicating Effectively: utilising effective negotiation techniques to achieve long-term results acceptable to all parties involved.
• Solving Problems: identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them.
• Demonstrating Flexibility: demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supporting initiatives for change.

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 21.09.2026 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.

Number of open positions: 2

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

Job Flexibility: Hybrid

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: IPT-PI-SU-2026-184-LD

Field of work: 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