Mechanical shift operations technician -- Permanent position
Core mission:
The Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), situated in Grenoble, France, is Europe's leading research facility for scientific research using neutrons. Every year, we host over 2000 visits by scientists, who come to the Institute to carry out world-class research. The ILL's Reactor Division, whose role is to produce the neutrons needed to supply the ILL's scientific instruments, is responsible for operating all the technical installations associated with the reactor.
Come and join one of the six shift teams (each comprising a shift leader and four operations technicians) belonging to the Reactor Division's Operations Service, which has round-the-clock responsibility for the operation of our nuclear reactor.
Your tasks/Your main duties will be to:
- operate the reactor installations (preparation of miscellaneous hydraulic, electrical and fluid circuits)
- monitor the reactor, shut down reactor installations in safe mode and perform minor repairs
- prepare and conduct periodic tests and pre-startup tests
- draft operating procedures and instructions
- design and implement modifications to improve operating conditions.
You will work round-the-clock shifts on a rota basis (2 x 12 hours).
Your profile:
- You have a Level 4/5 qualification (NVQ, HNC/HND, foundation degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as industrial engineering, process engineering, mechanical maintenance, or thermal or electrical engineering, and at least three years' practical experience in an industrial setting.
- Experience of reactor operations in a nuclear environment would be an asset.
- You are a meticulous and well-organised self-starter with good writing skills.
- You are an excellent team player but are also able to work autonomously. You have a strong service-oriented attitude and are able to take initiative while complying with regulatory requirements.
What we offer:
Quality of life - This position is based in Grenoble, a hub for research and technology, ideally located in the heart of the French Alps (just 3 hours from Paris/Provence by train, 1 hour from Lyon international airport and 1 ½ hours from Geneva). It is important for us that our staff achieve a healthy work-life balance. We therefore offer home working (under certain conditions), generous annual paid leave entitlement and a host of other benefits that you will discover when you arrive!
Prospects - We guarantee you a secure permanent position based in Grenoble in a multicultural scientific environment.
Benefits - We offer generous social benefits (expatriation allowance, excellent health cover), moving and relocation assistance (under certain conditions) and an annual productivity bonus. We also offer language courses for you and your partner and subsidies for the use of public transport and the staff canteen, as well as for holidays and a variety of cultural and sports activities. For more details, visit https://www.ill.eu/careers/working-at-the-ill/employment-conditions
Sounds interesting?
Then why not take your next career step with us by applying online - preferably in English - via our career portal by 14.09.2025, quoting reference number 25/47. Please note that all applicants are subject to administrative screening (background checks). For this post, medical fitness (including for work under ionising radiation) is required. You will also have to perform an emergency response role in the event of a crisis.
Please note that the final round of interviews will take place during the week of 13 October.
We are committed to equal opportunities and diversity and therefore welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
The Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL), situated in Grenoble, France, is Europe's leading research
facility for fundamental research using neutrons. United by our passion for progress and
technology, we drive science and research forward every day. Together, we can pave the way
for discoveries that will help to make our world a better place.
www.ill.eu/careers
