Mechanical Assembly Technician

Date: Aug 6, 2026

Location: Oak Ridge, TN, US, 37830

Company: Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Requisition Id 16895 

 

Overview:  

The Research Manufacturing Group is seeking applications for a Mechanical Assembly Technician position with experience in the areas of mechanical or electro-mechanical fabrication, assembly, and inspection processes to support multiple enrichment technology programs. The Research Manufacturing Group resides in the Enrichment Systems Fabrication and Demonstration Section, Enrichment Science & Engineering Division, Isotope Science & Engineering Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The Enrichment Science and Engineering Division serves the nation in two critical areas: advancing enrichment technologies and exploring enriched stable isotope production and applications. The division leverages an elite staff of scientists, engineers, and technicians with the world-leading capabilities of Oak Ridge National Laboratory to deliver groundbreaking advancements with a variety of applications, from national security to life-saving medical treatments. This position reports to the Research Manufacturing Assembly Technician Supervisor.

 

As part of our team, you will work with other technicians, engineers, quality representatives, project managers, and other project staff to provide best-in-class manufactured components and assemblies to support project activities. This position requires strong understanding of precision manufacturing, mechanical and electro-mechanical fabrication and assembly techniques, interpretation of mechanical drawings and Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing, mechanical testing, inspection and quality control techniques.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Fabrication, assembly and testing of a variety of components utilized in various enrichment technology systems.
  • Assist in the development of associated procedures and process improvements.
  • Participation in research and development activities associated with gas centrifuge technology.
  • Assembly, disassembly, and troubleshooting of custom and commercial fabrication equipment.
  • Strong background in Conduct of Operations (working under procedures, work orders, manufacturing plans, quality & inspection plans.
  • Utilizing engineering and/or shop drawings for parts to be fabricated.
  • Working effectively in a collaborative environment to meet project milestones and deliverables.
  • Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

 

Basic Qualifications:

  • An AS degree in a relevant discipline and a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience OR a High School Diploma and a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience. Comparable combinations of education and experience will be considered.
  • Mechanical aptitude and experience in fabrication and assembly
  • Demonstration of manufacturing experience in an R&D and/or a production environment.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Proficiency with standard and advanced equipment, computer systems and software programs.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
  • Active DOE Q clearance.
  • Experience related to programs or research involving isotope enrichment technologies.
  • Experience working under a Quality Assurance Program (NQA-1, ISO9001, AS9100, or similar)
  • Understanding and being able to apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) per ANSI Y14.5

 

Special Requirements: 

  • Occasional overtime and limited-term shift work may be required to support mission need.
  • Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Q clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

 

Benefits at ORNL:  

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people. The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.

 

Other benefits include Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Pet 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.

 

About the Isotope Science and Engineering Directorate (ISED):
Established in 2020, the Isotope Science and Engineering Directorate is strengthening Oak Ridge National Laboratory's leadership in isotope production and enrichment technology innovation. ISED is guiding the Lab's pursuit of the fundamental science and technology that broadens the application of isotopes for energy, environmental, medical, and national security purposes. These efforts are made possible through the High Flux Isotope Reactor, the Radiochemical Engineering Development Center, ORNL's other nuclear facilities, and an assemblage of world-leading scientists and engineers.  Please visit https://www.ornl.gov/directorate/isotopes for more information about ISED.

 

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.


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