Fuel Cycle Science and Technology Division Director

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

5d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated and capable leader to serve as Division Director of the Fuel Cycle Science and Technology Division at ORNL. Reporting to and working closely with the Associate Lab Director (ALD) of the Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate (FFESD), the Division Director is responsible for advancing ORNL capabilities and interests in supporting advanced nuclear fuel cycles. ORNL, with FFESD at the lead, has world-class capabilities spanning nuclear fuel fabrication, advanced characterization, post-irradiation characterization, design and deployment of irradiation tests fielded in the High Flux Isotope Reactor and companion facilities, actinide chemistry, separations processes, used fuel handling, transportation, and nuclear waste forms. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and executing a vision that brings together capabilities from across ORNL to deliver technical understanding and solutions that address emergent needs of nuclear fuel qualification, licensing, back end options, fuel cycle analysis and domestic nuclear fuel cycle strategy. Leaning on a long, rich history in nuclear R&D, ORNL remains a key innovator and contributor with an extensive set of core strengths residing in the Fuel Cycle Science and Technology Division (FCSTD), and throughout the Lab. In addition to a diverse set of research and development (R&D) capabilities that are solving the most complicated aspects of nuclear energy development, ORNL has multiple partnerships with private companies in the development and execution of key components of their technology roadmaps. The DOE Office of Nuclear Energy (DOE-NE) and National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) are key sponsors of FCSTD. The Director will be responsible for key interfaces and strategy to capture and execute programs supported by these and other DOE offices. The incumbent will be responsible for ideating, developing, and completing a multidimensional R&D program that motivates, drives, and supports the nation’s nuclear energy fuel cycle needs. This will include foundational R&D programs targeting rapid advances in the underlying science and technology, translational R&D that converts this knowledge to solutions, and supportive R&D that provides subject matter expertise to interested industry partners. Developing and adjusting the appropriate mix of these programs as well as the necessary skill mix will be a key responsibility for the FCST Director.

Requirements

An advanced technical degree Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field of study with 15-20 years of proven experience.
Evidence of prior successful experience in leading R&D teams.
Scientific productivity proven through a record of lead-authored publications
The ability to obtain and maintain a Q clearance which requires US citizenship.

Nice To Haves

PhD in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field of study.
Management of line organization at the group or division level (or equivalent).
Demonstrated experience in developing effective teams with significant contributions from individuals/groups outside direct management control.
Hands-on experience in working in research partnerships, either through research participation or coordination role.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with a broad spectrum of people and issues in a fast-paced R&D environment.
Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently in conceptualizing, initiating, and evaluating research opportunities.
Ability to function well in a dynamic and changing research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to constantly evolving needs.
Experience developing or coordinating DOE-funded research programs and/or similar venture-capital-driven industries.
Proven track record to establish, nurture, and execute on technical partnerships with external participants.

Responsibilities

Develop, and as necessary evolve, FCSTD strategy for support of advanced nuclear fuel cycles working closely with the FFESD ALD, peer FFESD division directors, and leaders in other ORNL organizations.
Serve as primary programmatic interface with appropriate DOE-NE offices, working closely with FFESD ALD, FFESD Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Director, and peer FFESD division directors to ensure consistent, effective communication on key matters
Advance the scientific excellence of FCSTD through scientific productivity, program impact, publications, intellectual property development, and engagement of staff in external organizations.
Grow capabilities and staff expertise as needed to support current and future nuclear fuel and fuel cycle development needs
Review and approve staff proposals to ensure scope-schedule-budget alignment as well as work is consistent with FFESD strategy
Oversee effective workforce development program that attracts and retains diverse, high-quality staff.
Ensure a vibrant, inclusive workplace environment in which all staff can succeed
Collaborate with management peers to assist the FFESD ALD in defining and implementing strategic programmatic R&D missions for FFESD and the Laboratory.
Complete line management responsibilities including supervision of group leaders, budget and business planning, salary planning, staff recruitment and development, employee relations, and performance management.
Serve as the division work authority, striving to implement a culture within the workplace that is attentive to the identification of hazards and adaptable to providing controls and processes to address the hazards.
Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.