Isotope Production Analytical Chemist- Assistant Staff Technical Professional

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

About The Position

The Isotope Production Analytical Chemist performs detailed sample preparations, radiochemical separations, and measurement protocols on samples containing radiological constituents ranging from environmental levels to high levels of radioactivity. The role supports ORNL scientific staff conducting research and chemical operations associated with radioisotope production and purification, as well as research and development for nuclear fuels. It is part of the Nuclear Analytical Chemistry Section’s Transuranium Analytical Laboratory Group in the Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The position performs proceduralized radiochemical protocols supporting the laboratory’s environmental stewardship work, isotope programs, and fuel-cycle research and development. Daily work takes place in radiological hoods, gloveboxes, and hot cells. After training, the employee works a rotating schedule of four 10-hour days, 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., including weekends and holidays, and must be available to work varied shift schedules on short notice if required. The appointment may last up to 24 months, with potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions depend on performance and funding availability. The position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy clearance and is designated for Workplace Substance Abuse Program testing. A pre-hire physical is required after an offer. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, environmental science, or another technical-related discipline.
0–2 years of analytical laboratory or nuclear operations experience.
Ability to work a rotating four 10-hour-day schedule, including weekends and holidays, and to work varied shift schedules on short notice if required.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy clearance.
Ability to pass a pre-placement drug test and participate in ongoing random drug testing under the Workplace Substance Abuse Program.
Ability to complete a pre-hire physical after offer.
Applicants must complete all degree requirements before starting the appointment.
Applicants cannot have received a Ph.D. more than five years before the date of application.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated knowledge and experience working in C-zone laboratories and using gloveboxes and shielded hot cells in a Category II, non-reactor nuclear facility.
Experience with modern sample preparation methods for isotopic and elemental characterization, especially of 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 safety practices for handling radioactive materials.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively as a team member.
Ability to respond quickly to diverse and changing demands, sudden deadlines, and tight schedules.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Motivated self-starter able to work independently and contribute creatively to collaborative teams across the laboratory.
Ability to function in a fast-paced research environment, prioritize multiple tasks to meet deadlines, and adapt to changing needs.

Responsibilities

Perform established laboratory procedures, including 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.
Conduct laboratory experiments to assist in developing, modifying, and refining operational or experimental procedures.
Operate radiochemistry analytical instrumentation, including gas-flow proportional counters, a liquid scintillation counter, a BF3 neutron detector, and alpha- and gamma-ray spectrometry systems using HPGe and silicon surface-barrier detectors.
Interpret radiochemistry measurement data for scientific and sample reports.
Use Windows-based personal computers for instrument operation, data reporting, analytical calculations, and sample management.
Obtain and maintain ORNL training requirements for radiation workers performing analytical work in designated non-reactor radiological facilities, including qualification as a respirator wearer.
Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
Align work behaviors and interactions with ORNL’s values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service, and promote a respectful and equitable workplace.