Scientific Collaborator in Hydropower Rehabilitation

Ittigen, Switzerland (and remote work) | 80-100%

What you can contribute

• Take responsibility for the assessment and financing of rehabilitation projects concerning fish migration in various cantons of French- and German-speaking Switzerland
• Support and advise various cantons of French- and German-speaking Switzerland (as well as other stakeholders) in the field of fish migration
• Act as a specialist and contact person for technical questions related to the rehabilitation of obstacles to fish migration (e.g. dams, hydropower structures, locks, weirs)
• Coordinate energy policy files within the Water division and represent it to internal and external bodies
• Co-lead the development and advancement of application documents related to the financing of rehabilitation measures (fish migration, lock operations, sediment regime) and respond to questions about financing rehabilitation projects
• Lead the handling of political files related to the financing of hydropower rehabilitation

What makes you unique

• Higher education degree in aquatic ecology (biology, environmental sciences or engineering) or a degree in hydraulic engineering with good knowledge in aquatic ecology and/or fisheries
• Experience in aquatic ecology (planning, monitoring or implementation of projects), ideally in ecological hydropower rehabilitation
• Experience and interest in energy policy and financial law issues
• Experience in scientific environments, administration or consulting firms as well as in project management
• Independent, goal-oriented and solution-focused working method, strong communication skills and team spirit
• Good active knowledge of a second official language and ideally knowledge of a third official language

In a few words

You contribute to designing a sustainable use of hydropower and to restoring free fish migration in a targeted and effective manner.

What we offer

• Working for Switzerland We are committed to the success of the Swiss model and the well-being of the population.
• Diversity every day We ensure equal opportunities, which allow us to deploy our skills and express different viewpoints.
• Health at work We assist and advise our employees on all matters related to physical or mental health.

All benefits

Our quality of life for today and tomorrow.

The Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) is responsible for ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources such as soil, water, air and forest. FOEN is an office of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC). We are interested in today’s Switzerland while preparing for tomorrow’s. By taking on responsibilities within demanding projects, we contribute to the smooth running of the country. FOEN offers a modern working environment in which we can make a significant contribution to the sustainable development of Switzerland.

Additional information

Start date: 01.11.2026 or by agreement.

Questions about the position

Monika Schaffner co-head of the Hydropower – Rehabilitation section +41 58 464 77 81