Accounts Payable Assistant (FAP-ACC-AP-2025-86-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

Do you have several years of experience in accounts payable?  Join CERN and put your skills to use in an exceptional environment! We are looking for a positive, motivated and dynamic person who is able to handle large volumes of work and maintain flexibility, while remaining attentive to detail and being well organised.

You will join the Accounting Services group within the Finance and administrative processes department (FAP-ACC). More specifically the Accounts Payable section (AP) is a team of 6-8 people which receives all invoices and credit notes from suppliers. These are recorded, controlled and authorised for payment. The section processes between 35 000 and 45 000 invoices per year.

Functions

Within the Accounts Payable section, you will gradually take on the following functions within the team:

• Recording, checking and settling of invoices received by the organization (35 000- 45 000 per year); for some suppliers with monthly invoicing and multiple orders, checking the invoices requires analysis in excel.
• Following up service provider and supply contracts in close collaboration with the technical managers, procurement officers and suppliers.
• Analysing data and contributing to projects.
• Coding and entering financial accounting entries related to payables, and monitoring supplier accounts.
• Maintaining regular contact with various internal services and external parties.
• Responding to a significant volume of ad hoc requests from both internal and external contacts (using a ticket system).
• Taking responsibilities during the bookclosing for recording accruals on invoices.

Qualifications

Higher administrative diploma or equivalent relevant experience in the field of accounting, finance or a related field.

Experience:

• Experience in accounting or bookkeeping, in particular with accounts payable or accounts receivable.
• Experience in an international environment would be an advantage.

Technical competencies:

• Cost control.
• Financial reporting and analysis.
• Use of office software packages: particularly very good knowledge of Excel.
• Accounting control and analysis: specifically accounts payable.

Behavioural competencies:

• Managing self: working well autonomously; taking on activities and tasks without prompting; remaining objective, focused and productive in a stressful environment; focusing on solutions rather than problems.
• Demonstrating accountability: working conscientiously and reliably; delivering on promises; presenting information accurately and objectively.
• Working in teams: building and maintaining constructive and effective work relationships; contributing to promoting a positive atmosphere in the team through an optimistic and constructive attitude; addressing issues.
• Demonstrating flexibility: adapting quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements. Demonstrating a willingness to accept changing circumstances; supporting initiatives for change.

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 26.05.2025 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

This position involves:

• Work during nights, Sundays and official holidays, when required by the needs of the Organization.

Job grade: 3-4

Job reference: FAP-ACC-AP-2025-86-LD

Benchmark Job Title: Process/Services Assistant