Project Manager for Tertiary Buildings (SCE-PPM-2025-130-LD)

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

The Project Portfolio Management (PPM) group in the Site and Civil Engineering Department (SCE) at CERN is responsible for the development, design and construction of (tertiary and industrial) buildings and infrastructure, both at the surface and underground. The project portfolio includes new build and renovation projects of office buildings. The group is looking to hire an experienced project manager to manage small to medium projects (< 15 MCHF) or to act as the deputy project manager on larger tertiary projects (> 30 MCHF). We are seeking a construction generalist with varied experience in architectural/engineering design, procurement and construction/contract management. You will have the unique opportunity to contribute to CERN's flagship tertiary building projects, collaborating with international teams in a bilingual (English/French) environment.

Functions

As Project Manager, you will oversee new build and/or renovation projects, from concept to final delivery, creating architecturally interesting and environmentally responsible spaces that foster collaboration within the CERN community.

You will lead or contribute to the design and construction phases of tertiary or industrial buildings, working under a Senior Project Manager.

Key responsibilities include:

• Design Phase:
  • Gather requirements from end-users to develop a design brief and conduct feasibility studies (scope, cost, schedule).
  • Participate in all design phases, coordinate and evaluate external and internal stakeholders (e.g. external architects, engineers and internal technical specialists).
  • Manage the design approval process in collaboration with end-users.

• Construction Phase:
  • Ensure construction aligns with contractual drawings, specifications and regulations.
  • Review contractor designs, variations requests, claims and compliance with BREEAM/WELL/Minergie certification.
  • Manage contractor and stakeholder communication, ensuring smooth coordination.
  • Assist with commissioning, documentation, snagging lists and taking-over procedures.

• Project Management, Procurement and Contract Management:
  • Develop project management plans (scope, resources, procurement, delivery strategy).
  • Monitor progress, quality, budget, and schedule; assist in risk management.
  • Coordinate procurement activities (invitations to tender, bid evaluations, adjudications).
  • Ensure contracts are performed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.
  • Manage project changes and document impacts.
  • Provide administrative support (meetings, reporting, document management).

Qualifications

Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of architectural or civil engineering or a related field.

Project Management Institute (PMI) certificate would be considered to be of benefit.

Experience:

Required Experience:

• Demonstrated experience as a project manager for the design and execution of tertiary buildings (offices, laboratories, classrooms, auditoria, restaurants, etc.).
• Proven experience in procurement, design and construction management, and contract management.
• Background in designing and constructing tertiary/industrial buildings and infrastructure.

Additional assets:

• Experience as a developer or client’s representative.
• Experience working in international teams, with EN/SIA standards, and FIDIC contracts.
• Experience with sustainable buildings with low-energy HVAC systems, renewable energy, and low-carbon materials.

Technical competencies:

• Knowledge of building construction, consolidation and renovation: (including furniture selection).
• Definition of tendering and contracting strategies.
• Specification and follow-up of technical aspects of a contract.
• Project, contract and change management.
• Design of tertiary and industrial buildings, including environmentally friendly buildings.

Behavioural competencies:

• Achieving results: delivering high quality work on time and fulfilling expectations; driving work / projects along and seeing them through to their conclusion; having a structured and organised approach towards work; being able to set priorities and plan tasks with results in mind.
• Communicating effectively: demonstrating a pro-active approach to resolving differences; addressing issues of conflict constructively; expressing opinions, ideas and suggestions with conviction and in a logical/structured manner; keeping to the point; utilising effective negotiation techniques to achieve long-term results acceptable to all parties involved.
• Demonstrating flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements being able to deal with ambiguous or unpredictable situations; readily absorbing new techniques and working practices; proposing new or improved ways of working.
• Managing self: appreciating humour and defusing tensions by seeking to remain positive in all situations; remaining objective, focussed and productive in a stressful environment; focusing on solutions rather than problems; taking initiative beyond regular tasks and making things happen.
• Solving problems: anticipating obstacles; assessing alternative solutions in order to have a fall-back plan Identifying, defining and assessing problems, taking action to address them; being open to original ideas and creative options by which to address issues; continually driving change by seeking new ways to improve outcomes.

Language skills:

Spoken and written English or French, with a commitment to learn the other language.

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 27.07.2025 at 23:59 CEST.

Employment Conditions

Contract type: Limited duration contract (3 years). Subject to certain conditions, holders of limited-duration contracts may apply for an indefinite position.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Interventions in underground installations.
• A valid driving licence.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SCE-PPM-2025-130-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Civil Engineer

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