Electric Motors Researcher

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Centrifuge Science (CS) Section within the Enrichment Science and Engineering Division (ESED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking an Electric Motor Researcher for the Mechanical Systems Modeling (MSM) Group. The Electric Motor Researcher will conduct detailed analysis of electric motors and motor drive systems used in gas centrifuge applications. This role involves troubleshooting electric motor systems, guiding experimental validation, and supporting the development of advanced electromagnetics solutions. ESED serves the nation in two critical areas: advancing enrichment technologies and exploring enriched stable isotope production and applications. The division leverages an elite staff of scientists and engineers with the world-leading capabilities of ORNL to deliver groundbreaking advancements with a variety of applications, from national security to life-saving medical treatments. ESED is the national steward for research, development, and demonstration of centrifuge technology. The successful candidate will participate in research and development (R&D) activities that strategically advance science and technology focused on gas testing of prototype enrichment devices for processing uranium-bearing and stable isotope compounds. The Mechanical Systems Modeling Group applies first-principles physics and empirically informed methods to advance the fundamental engineering understanding of gas centrifuge systems. The group leverages analytical techniques and advanced computational tools—including finite element analysis (FEA)—to evaluate and predict the behavior of complex rotating machinery operating under extreme conditions. Through the integration of modeling, simulation, and experimental validation, the group supports the design, performance optimization, and reliability of gas centrifuges used in the processing of uranium and stable isotope compounds. The Electric Motor Researcher will participate in research and development (R&D) related to the analysis, design, and testing of electric motors and motor drive systems. The successful candidate will lead efforts in FEA, guide development, troubleshooting, experimental validation, and demonstration of motors and motor drives, supporting innovation and technical excellence within the group, section, or division. This role also involves collaborating with external vendors to support the scale-up of electric motor manufacturing in alignment with the Nation’s enrichment objectives.

Requirements

PhD degree and 4 years of relevant postgraduate experience or a MS degree with 10 years of postgraduate experience in electrical engineering or closely related engineering or science discipline.
Excellent communication (verbal and written), strategic planning, organization, and decision-making skills.
Experience testing motors, motor drives, and magnetic material.
Experience designing fixtures and apparatuses for testing magnetics and motors.

Nice To Haves

Active DOE Q clearance.
Experience in full product development, from concept through large-scale manufacturing.
Demonstrated leadership experience in technical or project settings.
Proficiency with ANSYS Maxwell or related simulation software.
Experience programming with MATLAB, C++, or Python.
Experience in modeling electric motors and electromagnetics.
Hands-on experience designing and fabricating electric motors.
Strong knowledge of motor control techniques used in motor drive systems.
Understanding of motor drive modulation techniques and their impact on motor design.
Familiarity with position feedback systems and their integration in electric machines.

Responsibilities

Perform advanced electromagnetics analysis, with a focus on motors and electromagnetic assemblies compatible with enrichment devices and related technologies.
Develop and coordinate tests to characterize mechanical and thermal properties.
Validate simulations.
Provide guidance on formal design, test planning, data analysis, and fabrication in collaboration with stakeholders.
Collaborate with external vendors and contractors to scale motor fabrication while ensuring quality, schedule adherence, and alignment with design specifications.
Conduct research in the field of electric motors and motor drives, particularly as they relate to centrifuge and enrichment technologies.
Develop, execute, and report on complex simulations and experimental tests, including mechanical and thermal characterization.
Collaborate with line management, project management, and team members to ensure project success.
Contribute significantly to R&D, design development, and experimental troubleshooting activities.
Interface with external vendors and contractors to support the scale-up and fabrication of electric motors, ensuring quality, schedule adherence, and alignment with design specifications.
Prepare high-quality, peer-reviewed classified research reports.
Align 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.