Protocol Officer (SR-SE-PRT-2026-50-LD)

Introduction

As a Protocol Officer, you will be part of the team that coordinates all aspects of the visit and event programmes, which enable high-level visitors to fully appreciate the role and value of CERN in line with the strategic directions of the Directorate and established protocol guidelines. You will be at the forefront of the representational function of the laboratory, working closely with colleagues from across CERN and the scientific collaborations.

Functions

Under the supervision of the Chief of Protocol, you will:

• Act as the central contact point for the design and organisation of visit and event programmes, coordinating with external stakeholders and internal services.
• Coordinate protocol and logistical arrangements, ensuring compliance with relevant guidelines and timelines, and adapting to last-minute changes as required.
• Advise CERN Management and senior colleagues on protocol matters.
• Contribute to statistics, performance indicators, and regular reporting for the Protocol Office.
• Support the ongoing development of protocol-related policies, guidelines, and procedures.

Qualifications

Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in the field of Protocol, Hospitality, Communications or a related field.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in organising and hosting diplomatic protocol events.
• Experience working in teams, preferably in an international environment / international organisation.

Technical competencies:

• Diplomatic and ceremonial protocol and etiquette.
• Customer service.
• Event organisation and management.
• Drafting and writing of official documents to high-ranking officials or offices in French and English.
• Use of office software packages.

Behavioural competencies:

• Demonstrating Flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements.
• Achieving Results: delivering prompt and efficient service taking into account customer needs.
• Managing Self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting.
• Building Relationships: showing courtesy and consideration in dealings with others.
• Communicating Effectively: delivering presentations in a structured and clear way; adjusting style and content to the audience; responding calmly and confidently to questions.

Language skills:

Spoken and written both English and 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 Organisation. 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 22.03.2026 at 23:59 CET.

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: Fully Onsite

This position involves:

• Work in Radiation Areas.
• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organisation.

Job grade: 6-7

Job reference: SR-SE-PRT-2026-50-LD

Field of work: International Relations

Benchmark Job Title: Communications/Public Relations /External Relations 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