Survey, Alignment, and Metrology Engineer

Date: Apr 23, 2026

Location: Oak Ridge, TN, US, 37830

Company: Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Requisition Id 16315 

Overview:  

We are seeking an engineer who will focus on using surveying and engineering analysis skills to plan accurate, high-precision metrology and alignment on a wide variety of mechanical systems in support of the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) accelerator systems and neutron beam lines. The position will also occasionally support other projects and efforts across the Oak Ridge National Lab complex.  This position resides in the Survey, Alignment, and Metrology Group in the Neutron Technologies Engineering Section, Neutron Technologies Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

  • Work with scientists, engineers, and technicians to achieve required alignment and metrology tolerances.
  • Perform analysis of measurements using coordinate system transformations, least squares, and uncertainty propagation.
  • Plan and supervise dimensional inspection and feudalization of mechanical components.
  • Plan and supervise alignment during installation and modification of neutron beam lines and accelerator components.
  • Design, install, and maintain survey control networks.
  • Produce accurate and concise technical reports.
  • Prepare presentations for and respond to recommendations from design reviews and advisory committees.
  • Participate in R&D and prototyping of proposed experimental equipment.
  • Accurately and reliably communicate technical status and performance to ORNL management.
  • Comply with ORNL environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
  • Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of ORNL values and ethics.
  • Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

 

Basic Qualifications:

  • A BS degree in surveying, engineering, mathematics, physics, or a related field and a minimum of 5 years of related experience

 

 Preferred Qualifications:

  • Thorough understanding of analytic geometry, uncertainty propagation, and 3D coordinate system transformations
  • Some experience in a related technician role
  • Experience with accelerators or neutron instruments
  • Familiarity with Spatial Analyzer, Verisurf, Geomagic, Cyclone, AutoCAD, and Creo software packages
  • Understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (ASME Y14.5)
  • Programming ability
  • Experience with laser trackers, coordinate measurement machines, laser scanners, optical tooling, and conventional metrology tools
  • Experience with precision alignment monitoring systems (e.g., hydrostatic levels, wire-positioning systems, LVDTs)
  • 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 Requirements: 

  • 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 access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

 

Benefits at ORNL:  

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking 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, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available.

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.


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