Materials Engineer - Polymers and Composites

About the role

CERN is looking for a Materials Engineer with a focus on polymers and composites to join its team in Geneva on a contract basis. The role centers on evaluating, testing, and developing polymer-based and composite materials used in components for particle physics experiments and accelerator systems. This engineer will work closely with physicists, technicians, and other engineers to ensure that materials perform reliably under the demanding conditions found in high-energy physics research environments. The position plays a key part in maintaining and improving the material foundations that support CERN's experimental programs and infrastructure.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Assess and choose polymer and composite materials suitable for use in particle physics experiments and accelerator components at CERN.
• Perform mechanical, thermal, and chemical tests to understand how materials behave under the conditions they will face in operation.
• Create and update material specifications and datasheets that guide procurement decisions and quality assurance processes across the organization.
• Work alongside physicists and engineers to identify and resolve material-related challenges in detector modules and accelerator subsystems.
• Take part in the qualification and approval steps for new materials before they enter CERN's approved supply list.
• Keep track of new developments in polymer and composite technology that could benefit high-energy physics research at CERN.
• Write technical reports that summarize test outcomes, material comparisons, and recommendations for engineering teams and project managers.
• Take part in failure analysis efforts to determine why materials degraded or failed during their service life in experimental setups.
• Liaise with outside suppliers and manufacturers to confirm that delivered materials match the required properties and manufacturing standards.
• Suggest improved material options that can enhance the performance and longevity of existing experimental equipment and detector systems.

Requirements

• Hold a degree in materials science, polymer engineering, chemistry, or a closely related engineering or physical science field from a recognized university.
• Have a strong working knowledge of polymer behavior, composite manufacturing methods, and standard material testing and characterization approaches.
• Bring hands-on experience with mechanical testing procedures and an understanding of the standards that govern such evaluations in engineering contexts.
• Be able to analyze experimental data using appropriate software tools and present findings in a clear, organized manner to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Show a proven ability to collaborate effectively within international, multidisciplinary teams where clear communication and cultural awareness matter.
• Demonstrate competence in writing detailed technical documents, including test protocols, material reports, and compliance records for engineering projects.
• Have accumulated a meaningful level of professional experience in materials engineering, polymer science, or a closely aligned engineering discipline.
• Be willing to follow all of CERN's safety regulations, radiation protection protocols, and organizational procedures while working on site.

Nice to have

• Prior exposure to materials that must perform in vacuum conditions, including an awareness of outgassing and contamination concerns in accelerator environments.
• Experience working within a large international research organization, a national laboratory, or a similar institution with complex technical infrastructure.
• Familiarity with advanced composite fabrication methods such as filament winding, pultrusion, or resin infusion techniques used in precision engineering applications.
• Some background in understanding how ionizing radiation affects the long-term stability and mechanical properties of polymeric and composite materials.

Skills & tools

• Knowledge of thermal analysis methods such as differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis for polymer characterization.
• Familiarity with composite fabrication techniques including hand layup, resin transfer molding, vacuum bagging, and autoclave curing processes.
• Experience operating mechanical testing instruments like tensile testers, impact testers, and flexural strength machines in a laboratory setting.
• Ability to use data analysis and spreadsheet software to process test results, generate charts, and compile material performance summaries.
• Working knowledge of technical drawing review and basic CAD tools for understanding how materials interface with designed components.
• Awareness of quality assurance frameworks and material traceability standards relevant to sourcing and verifying engineering materials.

Practical notes

• This is a contract role, and the exact contract length and start date will be discussed and agreed upon with the selected candidate before the position begins.
• The work is performed on site at CERN's facilities in Geneva, Switzerland, and regular presence at the workplace is expected as part of the engagement.
• All personnel working at CERN must comply with the organization's health and safety rules, including radiation protection training and procedures where applicable.
• The selection process is likely to involve one or more technical interviews, a review of relevant project background, and checks of professional references provided by the candidate.

About the company

CERN runs the biggest particle physics lab globally. Founded in 1954, headquarters sit in Meyrin near Geneva, on the France Switzerland border. Membership includes 25 nations. Israel joined in 2013 and resides outside Europe. United Nations General Assembly status is observer. Scientific exploration drives operations. International collaboration defines culture. Roles span engineering, computing, and research. Opportunities attract diverse talent. Ambitions center on advancing knowledge. Work happens at the intersection of theory and experiment, supported by shared infrastructure and open science principles.