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.
Job Description
Introduction
You will have a unique opportunity to become an expert in applying European Commission (EC) financial rules, playing a pivotal role in your assigned projects. By managing all financial aspects, from analysing proposals and developing strategic budgets to overseeing expenses, you will not only ensure compliance with EC and CERN rules but also provide invaluable financial guidance to both internal teams and external partners.
Functions
- Ensuring compliance with EU financial rules and CERN internal rules and regulations, analyze EC project proposals from their funding scheme perspective under the Horizon Europe program in order to develop appropriate budgets.
- Define, manage and monitor EC project budgets and expenses and propose corrective actions if needed.
- Follow up EC projects end-to-end from a financial standpoint.
- Provide specialist financial advice and guidance on grant related financial matters to the members in CERN departments as well as partners outside the Organization.
- Prepare financial reports on a regular basis and in accordance with imposed deadline for both, internal and external audiences such as the European Commission and external auditors.
- Propose improvements to internal financial procedures.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Finance, Accounting, Treasury or a related field.
Experience:
- Extensive experience in financial services within international environments, with a demonstrated ability to manage complex financial activities with a high degree of autonomy.
- Proven experience in applying European Commission financial rules (H2020 and/or Horizon Europe), or well-established exposure to their practical implementation in project contexts.
Technical competencies:
- Knowledge of Funding Programmes.
- Financial reporting and analysis.
- Accounting control and analysis.
- Process analysis, definition and improvement.
- Personnel and material resources planning.
Behavioural competencies:
- Solving Problems: assimilating large quantities of information, identifying key issues and formulating conclusions clearly and concisely.
- Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
- Communicating Effectively: expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point.
- Working in Teams: gaining trust and collaboration from others.
- Learning and Sharing Knowledge: keeping up-to-date with developments in own field of expertise and readily absorbing new information.
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 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 19.05.2026 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.
Working Hours: 40 hours per week
Job Flexibility: Hybrid
Job grade: 4-5
Job reference: SR-SE-EUI-2026-90-LD
Field of work: Support Services (Finance, HR, Legal, Procurement)
Benchmark Job Title: Financial Support Officer
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