Laboratory Technician - European Commission (AST1, Karlsruhe)
About this position
The summary below is published by European Commission on the official vacancy notice. Our own analysis — salary realism, comparable openings, career trajectory, language profile — follows further down the page.
1
> JRC/COM/2026/1071 &JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
# MAKE A DIFFERENCE - JOIN THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Do you want to help shape the future of the European Union? Make the planet greener,
promote a fairer society, or support businesses and innovation across the EU ? Then come and
work for the European Commission where you can really make a difference!
Commission staff are a diverse group of people, who are motivated to help make Europe – and
the world – a better place. They come from the 27 Member States of the European Union.
Different nationalities, backgrounds, languages and cultures make the Commission a vibrant and
inclusive place to work .
WE OFFER GREAT JOBS AND GREAT WORKING CONDITIONS:
• Interesting and challenging jobs with plenty of opportunities for training and acquiring
new skills and competencies throughout your whole career
• Opportunities to move between different policy areas throughout your career
• A package of flexible working conditions including the possibility of teleworking – we
care about your work -life balance
• A competitive financial package, including comprehensive healthcare , accident and
pension schemes
• A multilingual, multicultural workplace where personal and career development are
strongly promoted
• Multilingual schools for your children
We recruit from a wide range of backgrounds and actively promote diversity and
inclusion:
We do not only recruit political scientists and lawyers but are also looking for all kinds of
profiles, including scientists, linguists , IT experts, data analysts and economists, as well as drivers
and engineers.
We are committed to equal opportunities and to foster ing a rich, diverse and inclusive working
environment. We aim for our workforce to be representative of European society and strongly
welcome applications from all qualified candidates . We actively seek to create a workplace where
each staff member feels valued and respected, can give their best and can develop to their full
potential. 2
JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
To promote diversity and establish a geographically balanced pool of candidates , we strongly
encourage applicants from Member States which are currently underrepresented in the European
Commission workforce to apply. These Member States are currently Austria, the Czech
Republic, Denmark, the Netherlands, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Latvia, Luxembourg,
Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Sweden 1. Recruitment will however remain strictly based on the
merits of all applicants and no positions will be reserved for nationals of any specific Member
State.
For more information ec.europa.eu/work -with -us
STAFF RECRUITED ON CONTRACTS
In addition to permanent officials, the European Commission offers non -permanent positions .
There are two categories of non -permanent staff:
> •
temporary agents are recruited to fill vacant positions for a set amount of ti me or
to perform highly specialised tasks .
> •
contract agents may provide additional capacity in specialised fields where an
insufficient number of officials is available or carry out a number of administrative or
manual tasks. They are generally recruited for fixed -term contracts (maximum 6 years in
any EU Institution), but in some cases they can be offered contracts for an indefinite
duration (in offices, agencies, delegations or representations).
For more information on different staff categories
> 1Please note that the list of underrepresented Member States may be subject to future amendment based on potential > data changes over time.
3
JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
# 2 Positions as
# LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
# Directorate - General Joint Research Centre (DG JRC) of the
# European Commission
Selection reference: JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/ COM/2026/1245
Domain: Science and Research
Where : Unit JRC.G.3 – Safety of the Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Karlsruhe
Staff category and Function Group : Temporary agent 2d –Assistant
Grade range: AST1 -3
Publication deadline : 24 .08.2026 - 12.00 (Brussels time)
WE ARE
As the science and knowledge service of the European Commission, the Joint Research Centre
provides independent, evidence -based knowledge and science, supporting EU policies to positively
impact society. We provide anticipatory capacity, solid expertise and ability to propose and
implement interdisciplinary research. The activities are carried out in collaboration with relevant
Commission Services, national and international organisations and stakeholders. At the JRC we
organise our work in portfolios which are the main building blocks of our multi -annual work
programmes. The JRC is located in five Member States (Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands
and Spain). More information about the JRC and its portfolios can be found at: https://joint -
research -centre.ec.europa.eu/index_en
The current vacan cies are in the Directorate for Nuclear Safety and Security. Its mission is the
implementation of the JRC Euratom Research and Training Programme, the maintenance and
dissemination of nuclear competences in Europe to serve both ‘nuclear’ and ‘non -nuclear’ Member
States. A strong cooperation and complementarity with their national organisations is of key
relevance. The Directorate supports the relevant policy DGs with independent, technical and
scientific evidence in the areas of nuclear safety, security and safeguards. It is also an active key
partner in international networks and collaborates with international organisations and prominent
Academia and Research Institutes.
The Unit G.3 (Safety of the Nuclear Fuel Cycle) is mostly dedicated to post -irradiation examination
(PIE) and studies of fuels and compounds, applied to radioactive waste management, advanced
fuels safety, closed cycle studies, and physical properties of irradiated fuels covering normal and
accident conditions in support of EU policies for nuclear safety. The unit operates JRC Karlsruhe’s
hot cells used for macroscopic analysis of irradiated fuel rods and segments, and acting as hub for
sample preparation and handling of irradiated compounds, in synergy with other laboratories and in
the context of EU Joint Programming and collaborative programmes. 4
JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
We offer a post located in Karlsruhe, Germany. JRC is situated at the KIT Campus Nord, which can
be reached by tram from the centre of Karlsruhe, or by bike through a lovely green stretch of wood.
Children of employees can attend the European School of Karlsruhe. You can find more information
about the benefits of working for the European Commission here: Working in the Commission -
conditions and environment (europa.eu)
A job on the JRC Karlsruhe site offers an attractive and diverse international environment, in one of
the European Commission’s research centres with state -of -the -art laboratories. Karlsruhe is located
in the German state of Baden -Württemberg, a modern industrial location in the heart of Europe
with a robust industry and low unemployment rates. Baden -Württemberg has beautiful and varied
landscapes such as Lake Constance and the Black Forest. In addition, Germany is considered one of
the safest countries in the world (ref: Global Peace Index) and offers its residents a safe and stable
living environment. Karlsruhe is a university city hosting numerous cultural institutions with a
diverse and colourful programme from classic to modern (from castles to modern media and art
museums). It is a place with high quality of life.
WE PROPOSE
We are looking for motivated and hands -on Laboratory Technicians to join our international team in
Karlsruhe. This is a rewarding opportunity to work in a highly specialized hot cell environment,
contributing to important experimental activities in post -irradiation examination of nuclear fuel and
the characterization of legacy wast e.
In this role, you will work closely with laboratory colleagues, providing day -to -day technical support
and helping to ensure that activities run smoothly and effectively. You will contribute to the
development of new experimental set -ups and support the preparation and execution of
experiments focused on the mechanical properties of irradiated fuel and cladding. Working in
collaboration with the workshop, you will also help bring experimental designs to life and ensure
that all necessary preparations are in place.
A key part of the role will involve helping to maintain a safe, well -organized and efficient
laboratory environment, including waste management. You will also play an important part in
maintaining and improving hot -cell equipment and laboratory instruments within your area of
responsibility.
These positions offer the chance to be part of meaningful scientific and technical work in a unique
setting, where operations are carried out remotely using telemanipulators within the hot cell
environment. If you are someone who enjoys practical problem -solving, working as part of an
international team, and supporting advanced laboratory activities, this could be an excellent next
step for you. 5
JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
WE LOOK FOR
We seek committed and motivated individual s with technical background – preferably in the
nuclear sector or as a laboratory technician – who is ready to assume equipment responsibility.
To succeed in this position, you should have at least one year of hands -on experience in a technical
or laboratory setting. Experience working in radioprotection -controlled area would be considered an
asset, although it is not required. We are also looking for candidates with strong communication
skills, includ
Position details
- Reference
- JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245
- Directorate-General
- JRC - Joint Research Centre
- Vacancy Notice
- Download PDF
- Last Verified
- 24 July 2026
Position overview
This is the official EU Careers listing for Laboratory Technician at European Commission based in Karlsruhe at the AST1 grade level (Temporary Agent). The vacancy reference is JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245. It is hosted by JRC - Joint Research Centre, the Directorate-General responsible for this policy area. The role falls under the Science And Research domain.
1
> JRC/COM/2026/1071 &JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
# MAKE A DIFFERENCE - JOIN THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Do you want to help shape the future of the European Union? Make the planet greener,
promote a fairer society, or support businesses and innovation across the EU ? Then come and
work for the European Commission where you can really make a difference!
Commission staff are a diverse group of people, who are motivated to help make Europe – and
the world – a better place. They come from the 27 Member States of the European Union.
Different nationalities, backgrounds, languages and cultures make the Commission a vibrant and
inclusive place to work .
WE OFFER GREAT JOBS AND GREAT WORKING CONDITIONS:
• Interesting and challenging jobs with plenty of opportunities for training and acquiring
new skills and competencies throughout your whole career
• Opportunities to move between different policy areas throughout your career
• A package of flexible working conditions including the possibility of teleworking – we
care about your work -life balance
• A competitive financial package, including comprehensive healthcare , accident and
pension schemes
• A multilingual, multicultural workplace where personal and career development are
strongly promoted
• Multilingual schools for your children
We recruit from a wide range of backgrounds and actively promote diversity and
inclusion:
We do not only recruit political scientists and lawyers but are also looking for all kinds of
profiles, including scientists, linguists , IT experts, data analysts and economists, as well as drivers
and engineers.
We are committed to equal opportunities and to foster ing a rich, diverse and inclusive working
environment. We aim for our workforce to be representative of European society and strongly
welcome applications from all qualified candidates . We actively seek to create a workplace where
each staff member feels valued and respected, can give their best and can develop to their full
potential. 2
JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
To promote diversity and establish a geographically balanced pool of candidates , we strongly
encourage applicants from Member States which are currently underrepresented in the European
Commission workforce to apply. These Member States are currently Austria, the Czech
Republic, Denmark, the Netherlands, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Latvia, Luxembourg,
Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Sweden 1. Recruitment will however remain strictly based on the
merits of all applicants and no positions will be reserved for nationals of any specific Member
State.
For more information ec.europa.eu/work -with -us
STAFF RECRUITED ON CONTRACTS
In addition to permanent officials, the European Commission offers non -permanent positions .
There are two categories of non -permanent staff:
> •
temporary agents are recruited to fill vacant positions for a set amount of ti me or
to perform highly specialised tasks .
> •
contract agents may provide additional capacity in specialised fields where an
insufficient number of officials is available or carry out a number of administrative or
manual tasks. They are generally recruited for fixed -term contracts (maximum 6 years in
any EU Institution), but in some cases they can be offered contracts for an indefinite
duration (in offices, agencies, delegations or representations).
For more information on different staff categories
> 1Please note that the list of underrepresented Member States may be subject to future amendment based on potential > data changes over time.
3
JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
# 2 Positions as
# LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
# Directorate - General Joint Research Centre (DG JRC) of the
# European Commission
Selection reference: JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/ COM/2026/1245
Domain: Science and Research
Where : Unit JRC.G.3 – Safety of the Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Karlsruhe
Staff category and Function Group : Temporary agent 2d –Assistant
Grade range: AST1 -3
Publication deadline : 24 .08.2026 - 12.00 (Brussels time)
WE ARE
As the science and knowledge service of the European Commission, the Joint Research Centre
provides independent, evidence -based knowledge and science, supporting EU policies to positively
impact society. We provide anticipatory capacity, solid expertise and ability to propose and
implement interdisciplinary research. The activities are carried out in collaboration with relevant
Commission Services, national and international organisations and stakeholders. At the JRC we
organise our work in portfolios which are the main building blocks of our multi -annual work
programmes. The JRC is located in five Member States (Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands
and Spain). More information about the JRC and its portfolios can be found at: https://joint -
research -centre.ec.europa.eu/index_en
The current vacan cies are in the Directorate for Nuclear Safety and Security. Its mission is the
implementation of the JRC Euratom Research and Training Programme, the maintenance and
dissemination of nuclear competences in Europe to serve both ‘nuclear’ and ‘non -nuclear’ Member
States. A strong cooperation and complementarity with their national organisations is of key
relevance. The Directorate supports the relevant policy DGs with independent, technical and
scientific evidence in the areas of nuclear safety, security and safeguards. It is also an active key
partner in international networks and collaborates with international organisations and prominent
Academia and Research Institutes.
The Unit G.3 (Safety of the Nuclear Fuel Cycle) is mostly dedicated to post -irradiation examination
(PIE) and studies of fuels and compounds, applied to radioactive waste management, advanced
fuels safety, closed cycle studies, and physical properties of irradiated fuels covering normal and
accident conditions in support of EU policies for nuclear safety. The unit operates JRC Karlsruhe’s
hot cells used for macroscopic analysis of irradiated fuel rods and segments, and acting as hub for
sample preparation and handling of irradiated compounds, in synergy with other laboratories and in
the context of EU Joint Programming and collaborative programmes. 4
JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
We offer a post located in Karlsruhe, Germany. JRC is situated at the KIT Campus Nord, which can
be reached by tram from the centre of Karlsruhe, or by bike through a lovely green stretch of wood.
Children of employees can attend the European School of Karlsruhe. You can find more information
about the benefits of working for the European Commission here: Working in the Commission -
conditions and environment (europa.eu)
A job on the JRC Karlsruhe site offers an attractive and diverse international environment, in one of
the European Commission’s research centres with state -of -the -art laboratories. Karlsruhe is located
in the German state of Baden -Württemberg, a modern industrial location in the heart of Europe
with a robust industry and low unemployment rates. Baden -Württemberg has beautiful and varied
landscapes such as Lake Constance and the Black Forest. In addition, Germany is considered one of
the safest countries in the world (ref: Global Peace Index) and offers its residents a safe and stable
living environment. Karlsruhe is a university city hosting numerous cultural institutions with a
diverse and colourful programme from classic to modern (from castles to modern media and art
museums). It is a place with high quality of life.
WE PROPOSE
We are looking for motivated and hands -on Laboratory Technicians to join our international team in
Karlsruhe. This is a rewarding opportunity to work in a highly specialized hot cell environment,
contributing to important experimental activities in post -irradiation examination of nuclear fuel and
the characterization of legacy wast e.
In this role, you will work closely with laboratory colleagues, providing day -to -day technical support
and helping to ensure that activities run smoothly and effectively. You will contribute to the
development of new experimental set -ups and support the preparation and execution of
experiments focused on the mechanical properties of irradiated fuel and cladding. Working in
collaboration with the workshop, you will also help bring experimental designs to life and ensure
that all necessary preparations are in place.
A key part of the role will involve helping to maintain a safe, well -organized and efficient
laboratory environment, including waste management. You will also play an important part in
maintaining and improving hot -cell equipment and laboratory instruments within your area of
responsibility.
These positions offer the chance to be part of meaningful scientific and technical work in a unique
setting, where operations are carried out remotely using telemanipulators within the hot cell
environment. If you are someone who enjoys practical problem -solving, working as part of an
international team, and supporting advanced laboratory activities, this could be an excellent next
step for you. 5
JRC/COM/2026/1071 & JRC/COM/2026/1245 Version: 16/04/2026
WE LOOK FOR
We seek committed and motivated individual s with technical background – preferably in the
nuclear sector or as a laboratory technician – who is ready to assume equipment responsibility.
To succeed in this position, you should have at least one year of hands -on experience in a technical
or laboratory setting. Experience working in radioprotection -controlled area would be considered an
asset, although it is not required. We are also looking for candidates with strong communication
skills, includ
Salary at this grade
Basic monthly salary at AST1 runs from €3,754 (step 1) to €4,248 (top step), giving an annual range of roughly €45,048 to €50,976 before tax and allowances. Steps increase automatically every two years; the figures here are taken from the salary grid in the EU Staff Regulations.
Eligible staff posted away from their country of nationality also receive an expatriation allowance worth 16% of basic salary (around €601 per month at step 1 of AST1) together with household, dependent-child, and education allowances where applicable. Take-home pay is then adjusted by the country correction coefficient for Karlsruhe. For a worked example see our correction coefficients guide and the EU salaries overview.
Application timeline
This vacancy was first listed on 24 July 2026, 2 days ago.
The application deadline is 24 August 2026, 27 days from today. Late applications are not accepted, so submit through the official EU Careers portal well in advance.
Last verified against the EU Careers feed on 24 July 2026 (2 days ago).
Where to learn more
For full responsibilities, requirements, and career progression at AST1 see our AST1 grade page; for headcount, mission, and other open vacancies at European Commission see the European Commission institution page; for the cost of living, correction coefficient, and other postings in Karlsruhe see our Karlsruhe location page; for related vacancies in the Science And Research field browse our Science And Research domain page.
New to EU careers? Our beginner's guide walks through entry routes, EPSO competitions, and what to prepare. For application logistics see application tips and EPSO competitions.
Net pay at this grade
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Career trajectory
Language profile
Application cadence
Visit the official European Commission website
Source: This job listing was sourced from the official EU Careers portal (EPSO). First published: . Salary estimate based on EU Staff Regulations.