NERC - Technical Professional

Requisition Id 14026 

Overview:  

We are looking for a skilled and motivated technical professional to join the Material Signatures and Isotopic Standards (MSIS) group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), where your work will have a direct impact on the fields of nuclear forensics and nuclear reference material production. In this role, you will provide guidance and analytical support for the dissolution and processing of radioactive materials, helping to develop and refine methods critical to national and international nuclear standards. With the support of experienced senior technical professionals, you will take on responsibilities that include preparing and aliquoting samples, conducting dissolution and separation processes, setting up and operating high-precision measurement instrumentation, and supporting data evaluation and reporting efforts.

As a key member of our team, you will engage in both established and emerging research focus areas, helping to drive innovation and strengthen ongoing programs. Working closely with the Group Leader and team members, you will support sample preparation and processing operations to meet research milestones and deliver high-quality data. You will play a critical role in analysis campaigns and in the development of novel analytical chemistry protocols, expanding your expertise in areas like labware preparation, sample digestion, separations using ion exchange columns, UF6 handling, and precise data evaluation. Your work will support a variety of analyses, including isotope dilution mass spectrometry, pycnometry, alpha spectrometry, trace element analysis, and titrations—ensuring each day brings new challenges and unique opportunities to apply your knowledge in dynamic ways.

The MSIS group is at the forefront of high-precision analytical measurements, supporting the development of nuclear signatures and the production and characterization of reference materials. Located in Building 4500S, our labs are equipped with advanced analytical capabilities, including high-precision isotopic mass spectrometry, Davies and Gray titration, pycnometry, trace element analysis, age dating, and alpha spectrometry. Additionally, we collaborate closely with the Ultra Trace Forensic Science Center (UTFSC), which offers specialized cleanroom laboratories for handling and processing smaller quantities of nuclear materials. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a cutting-edge research environment, where your contributions will advance the science of trace and ultra-trace material characterization and help solve real-world challenges in nuclear security.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Support the development of new and novel chemistry protocols.

• Independently plan, design, and execute analytical experiments.

• Wet chemistry techniques such as dissolution, solution prep and column separations.

• Make material balance measurements.

• Assist with instrument operations, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

• Interpret data (including quality control) from measurements to apply to real-world application and support development of scientific reports.

• Have technical proficiency in Microsoft office suite and basic computer software.

• Have a strong understanding of pipette operation, and labware functionality.

• Lead and/or participate in collaboration with other scientists and technical personnel in a fast-paced, flexible work environment.

• Maintain effective communications concerning scientific efforts internal and external to the laboratory, including publication of results in peer-reviewed journals and presentation of results at scientific meetings.

• Participate/ lead new research directions and development of research proposals to compete for internal and external funding.

• Travel will be required to brief sponsors; field collect samples or attend scientific conferences. 

• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• A BS degree in chemistry, geochemistry, cosmochemistry, biology, geology, oceanography, biochemistry, or a related discipline.

• A minimum of 2 years of professional experience in an analytical laboratory setting working with analytical chemistry operations and radioactive material.

• Established Q or L clearance or the ability to obtain a clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A MS degree in chemistry, geochemistry, cosmochemistry, biology, geology, oceanographic, biochemistry, or a related discipline.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams.

• Generally understanding and operation of laboratory infrastructure.

• Experience with sample preparation, storage, and handling.

• Experience working in a clean room environment.

• Experience working in an analytical environment supporting mass spectrometry.

• Experience working in ISO-17025 laboratory.

• Experience executing data analysis and review under standard operating procedures.

• Experience following standard operating procedures.

• Experience translating R&D activities to analytical protocols.

Special Requirements:

• HSPD-12 PIV badge: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.

• Q clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a 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.

• Visa Sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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 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.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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.