Job Description

Requisition Id 15050 

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Overview: 

We are seeking an Isotope Production Analytical Chemist who will perform detailed sample preparations, radiochemical separations and measurement protocols on samples which contain radiological constituents from environmental levels to high levels of radioactivity. This position will support ORNL scientific staff conducting research and chemical operations associated with the production and purification of radioisotopes and R&D for nuclear fuels. This position resides in the Nuclear Analytical Chemistry (NAC) Section’s Transuranium Analytical Laboratory (TAL) Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

As part of our analytical support team, you will perform proceduralized radiochemical protocols on nuclear materials in support of the TAL’s environmental stewardship support and Radiochemical Engineering Development Center’s (REDC) isotope programs and fuels cycle research and development. You will support advanced radiochemical operations for the analyses of samples which contain radiological constituents from environmental levels to high levels of radioactivity. You will work in radiological hoods, gloveboxes, and hot cells daily.

Once trained, you will assume a rotating four 10hr/day work week schedule (7:00am – 5:30pm) that includes weekends and holidays. Candidate must also be available to work a variety of shift schedules on short notice if required.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Work independently in performing established chemical laboratory procedures for titrations, dissolutions, dilutions and separations of high activity samples in preparation for analytical determinations
• Independently perform detailed analytical operations in alpha gloveboxes and shielded hot cells
• Independently perform laboratory experiments as needed to assist in developing, modifying, and refining operational and/or experimental procedures
• Operate radiochemistry analytical instrumentation, including NMC and Protean gas flow proportional counters, Canberra 4100/4200 gas flow proportional counters, Perkin Elmer 5110R liquid scintillation counter, BF3 neutron detector, and Windows based alpha and gamma ray spectrometry system (Canberra Genie-2K/ORTEC Alphavision & Gammavision) utilizing HPGe and Silicon Surface Barrier detectors
• Interpret data from radiochemistry measurements for scientific/sample reports.
• Utilize Windows based personal computers instrumentation operation, data reporting, analytical calculations, and sample management
• Obtain and maintain all ORNL training requirements for a radiation worker performing analytical work in designated non-reactor radiological facilities (Category II or III) and radiological facilities to include being qualified as a respirator wearer
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of 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 bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science or other technical related discipline
• A minimum of 2 years of analytical laboratory or nuclear operations experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working in C-zone laboratories, use of glove boxes, and shielded hot cells in a Category II, non-reactor nuclear facility
• Experience with modern sample preparation methods used in isotopic and elemental characterizations with emphasis on nuclear and chemical materials
• Familiarity with gamma detectors, gross alpha/beta detectors, liquid scintillation detectors, and gas flow proportional counters
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the safety practices associated with handling radioactive materials
• Strong interpersonal skills and working effectively as a team member
• Ability to respond quickly to diverse and shifting demands with sudden deadlines on tight schedules
• 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 the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.

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.

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Compartmented Information (SCI) 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. In addition, due the SCI, you may also be subject to random polygraph testing.

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.

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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