Group Leader, Advanced Engineering Technologies

Requisition Id 16147 

Overview:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Group Leader for the Advanced Engineering Technologies (AET) Group within the Nuclear Nonproliferation Division (NND) in the National Security Sciences Directorate (NSSD).

The Nuclear Nonproliferation Division conducts world-class research, technology development, risk assessment, and systems analysis in support of nuclear nonproliferation and counterproliferation missions. NND’s work contributes to the development and implementation of national policies and technologies that strengthen global nuclear security.

The Advanced Engineering Technologies Group focuses on developing innovative approaches for the operation, characterization, and analysis of nuclear fuel cycle processes. The group applies engineering principles to better understand and characterize complex processes and materials associated with the nuclear fuel cycle. AET collaborates closely with scientists and engineers across NND and ORNL to deliver integrated solutions that address sponsor needs.

Purpose:

The Group Leader provides scientific and organizational leadership for the AET Group. This role is responsible for advancing the group’s research portfolio, supporting the professional growth of staff, and positioning the group for continued impact in areas aligned with ORNL’s mission and strategic priorities.

The Group Leader reports to the NND Section Head and works collaboratively with division leadership to implement the group’s scientific vision. The successful candidate will lead research activities, develop new program opportunities, mentor staff, and ensure work is conducted safely and in compliance with laboratory policies and standards.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a strategic vision and research plan that supports the long-term success and growth of the group’s technical portfolio.
• Conduct and lead impactful research and development activities that advance the state of the art in relevant technical areas.
• Initiate and grow research programs through sponsor engagement, proposal development, and participation in technical workshops and collaborations.
• Identify emerging research opportunities and develop strategies to expand or establish new capabilities aligned with sponsor priorities.
• Collaborate with researchers, engineers, and technical staff across ORNL and external partners to deliver integrated solutions to complex challenges.
• Recruit, hire, and support the development of research staff while fostering a collaborative and inclusive research environment.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to group members to support career development and scientific growth.
• Promote the group’s research through publications, presentations, professional engagement, and collaboration with the broader scientific community.
• Ensure research activities are conducted in accordance with ORNL’s Environment, Safety, Security, Health, and Quality (ESH&Q) standards.
• Represent ORNL and the group in interactions with sponsors, collaborators, and the broader technical community.
• Travel as needed to engage with sponsors, participate in field activities, and attend technical meetings and conferences.
• Support ORNL’s mission by modeling the laboratory’s core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Basic Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in engineering, physics, or a related field with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience, or
  • M.S. with 12 years of relevant experience, or
  • B.S. with 15 years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading or coordinating technical teams or research efforts.
• Experience developing proposals and securing research funding from government sponsors.
• Experience leading or contributing significantly to national security–related research projects.
• Demonstrated technical contributions through publications, reports, patents, or other recognized outputs.
• Experience presenting technical results to sponsors, scientific peers, and professional audiences.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience mentoring or developing research staff and contributing to the growth of a research program.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of technologies and practices associated with nuclear fuel cycle applications.
• Experience supporting research in nuclear nonproliferation, counterproliferation, or related national security missions.
• Experience collaborating with DOE national laboratories or other large research organizations.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical design documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple research activities and adapt to evolving program priorities.

Special Requirements:

• This is a full-time staff position located at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
• Clearance Requirements: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q clearance and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access.
  • This position is designated as a Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) position, which requires passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in random drug testing.
  • Due to SCI access requirements, the position may also require polygraph testing.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.