Vacuum Technician

Requisition Id 14876 

Overview:

The Fusion Engineering Group within the Fusion Energy Division (FED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a skilled Vacuum Technician to support the assembly, testing, installation, commissioning, maintenance, and operation of vacuum systems for the Material Plasma Exposure Experiment (MPEX) and other DOE Office of Science Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) Program projects as required.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assemble, modify, and maintain precision electro-mechanical vacuum systems and components.
• Participate in the installation, testing, commissioning, and long-term operation of vacuum systems.
• Conduct performance verification of vacuum components using mechanical and electronic test equipment, including leak detectors and residual gas analyzers (RGAs).
• Develop, document, and maintain procedures related to the design, fabrication, procurement, acceptance, assembly, testing, commissioning, and operation of vacuum systems.
• Set up, calibrate, and operate specialized diagnostic and measurement equipment to ensure system integrity.
• Maintain detailed records, including test and measurement data, assembly procedures, qualification reports, and procurement acceptance documentation.
• Utilize computers and software tools for data acquisition, analysis, and reporting.
• Adhere to ORNL’s safety protocols, laboratory values, and ethical standards.
• 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:

• AS degree in mechanical technology or a related technical field, or an equivalent combination of education and at least 7 years experience in mechanical systems, vacuum technology, or related discipline.
• Experience with vacuum systems, vacuum components, and instrumentation, particularly in rough, high, and ultra-high vacuum environments.
• Proficiency in the assembly, troubleshooting, repair, calibration, and operation of vacuum and mechanical systems.
• Hands-on experience with mechanical and electronic test equipment for system verification.
• Familiarity with office automation tools, including word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
• Proficiency in utilizing CAD systems to interpret and understand design drawings and 3D models, supporting accurate and efficient assembly and installation processes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability and willingness to learn new technical skills as required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Working knowledge of electrical power systems, instrumentation, and computer-based controls.
• Prior experience with vacuum system assembly, maintenance, or operation.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and within a team, including potential work at remote facilities.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge fusion energy research at ORNL, supporting critical experimental infrastructure in collaboration with leading scientists and engineers.

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 

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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.