Software and Hardware Developer for Advanced Atomic Force Microscopy

Requisition Id 10012 

Overview: 

We are seeking a Technical Associate Staff Member who will focus on developing and enhancing atomic force microscope (AFM) control software and graphical user interfaces, mechanical design and assembly of enhancements for AFM’s, and building electronic circuits to interface hardware and software.  This position resides in the Functional Atomic Force Microscopy group, in the Nanomaterials Characterization Section of the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences Division (CNMS), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

You will work directly with research staff in the Functional Atomic Force Microscopy group in developing and implementing novel microscopy methods and extending our existing capabilities. You will help support user activities within the CNMS User’s Program including working directly with users to train them to use instruments safely and effectively and help to solve technical issues.   

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Invent, design, and develop mechanical and electromechanical systems to interface with microscopes to enable original and world leading microscopy capabilities
• Develop user friendly Labview and Python based programs to control electromechanical systems, data acquisition, and arbitrary waveform generation electronics
• Support the scientific user program including working directly with users on their projects
• Maintain equipment and instrumentation within the Functional Atomic Force Microscopy laboratories
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements; maintain clean and safe workspaces
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

Basic Qualifications:

• M.S. degree and at least 1 year of related experience or a Ph.D. in a related field
• Degree focus area should be in electrical engineering or related discipline

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated knowledge of programming in Labview and Python environments and controlling National Instruments hardware
• Experience in programming Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) systems
• Experience in using computer aided design (CAD) software for design of mechanical systems
• Experience in basic circuit design
• A background in Atomic Force Microscopy
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• 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

Special Requirement:

Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.

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, 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.

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.