Lab Analyst

GE Vernova•Wilmington, NC

1d•$37 - $45•Onsite

About The Position

Chemet Lab Analysts perform various duties necessary in carrying out the testing and analytical functions of the Lab, including but not limited to training, directing and overseeing the work of others when needed. They frequently work without direct technical supervision and are responsible for a wide variety of Lab operations including: sample analyses, instrument calibrations, equipment troubleshooting and maintenance support, mathematical calculations, data management and record keeping, reagent preparation, supply inventories, and housekeeping and safety. Work involves use of manual and automated instruments/devices often controlled by microprocessors and computers. Detecting and diagnosing equipment malfunctions is a critical part of the job. A thorough understanding of the technical content of the work is required to enable analyses to make interpretations and evaluations when necessary.

Requirements

Ability to work 1st Shift (7:30am-2:30pm)
A baccalaureate degree in chemistry or a physical science is required.
A minimum of eighteen (18) months of laboratory work experience, or equivalent experience outside an academic institution, is required.
Experience must include responsibilities involving mechanical and electronic equipment troubleshooting, as well as demonstrated ability to correctly interpret and utilize instrument manuals, equipment drawings, and diagnostic procedures.
Demonstrated experience with and strong knowledge in at least three of the following areas is required: ICP mass spectrometry, Ion chromatography, Liquid or gas chromatography, Metallurgy, metallography, and/or ceramography, Environmental tests, LIMS programming.
Must be 18 years or older.
Must be able to pass a Nuclear Safety Training Test.
Working with acids, bases, solvents, radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials is necessary and routine.
Demonstrated understanding of complex mathematical and chemical equations is required.
Ability to lift weights up to 45 pounds to shoulder level is required.
Must pass applicable quality control vision (Ishihara) test requirements.
Must be able to safely handle hazardous chemicals and equipment.
Must be able to use computers.
Must be willing to take a drug test as part of the selection process.
Must be willing to submit to a background investigation as part of the selection process.
Must be willing to complete a written assessment of knowledge as part of the selection process.
This role is restricted to U.S. persons (i.e., U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and other protected individuals under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)) due to access to export-controlled technology.
GE will require proof of status prior to employment.

Nice To Haves

Proficient in Microsoft Office Computer Software.
Demonstrated experience in electronic data transfer and/or digital image analysis is desirable.
Prior nuclear plant work experience.
Must be able to intermittently lift up to 45 lbs. Individually.
Continuous visual concentration will be necessary to develop and maintain tolerance.
Must be able to work continuous rotating shift work
Must be able to work on weekends and holidays when necessary
No relocation will be provided.
Must be able to pass a nuclear safety training test.

Responsibilities

Obtain certification for all assigned job functions and demonstrate the capability to perform at least three (3) of the tasks identified within the relevant sub-specialty category, as well as any unique or newly introduced analyses and tests as they arise.
Maintain active certification by completing all required re-certification activities as they become due.
Determine the isotopic content of uranium by wet chemical preparation techniques and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS).
Determine the total uranium content of selected process solutions as well as the concentrations of trace elemental impurities in uranium materials using ICPMS techniques and equipment.
Operate ICPMS units, requiring a basic understanding of mass spectrometry, radiofrequency plasma generation systems, and the ability to recognize electronic and sample introduction problems.
Interrogate, enter commands, and initiate subroutines in host computers and complex equipment process control devices.
Understand the operational logic sequences and control devices for each lab system for proper system troubleshooting.
Determine by various Wet Chemistry methods (titrimetric, gravimetric, colorimetric, chromatographic, etc.) the chemical composition and impurities in uranium materials and various metallic samples.
Set up, operate and troubleshoot vacuum equipment and associated gas analyzer systems used for determining the volatile contents of fuel pellets and the pressure/composition of the atmosphere inside fuel rods.
Determine various element concentrations in uranium oxide and metal samples using Horiba analyzers or other analytical devices.
Perform a wide variety of determinations using several different analytical techniques to assure compliance with regulatory standards regarding employee safety and environmental protection.
Perform precision grinding, polishing, etching and staining techniques to produce test sample surface finishes representative of the true microstructures of materials.
Make highly precise measurements on ceramic and metal sample specimens using a metallograph or microscope.
Identify different phases, voids and grain sizes in sintered uranium fuel pellets using ceramographic preparation procedures and evaluation techniques.
Using several different types of tensile test equipment, determine yield and ultimate strengths, percent elongation and reduction of area in various materials and alloys.
Perform micro indention hardness testing on various types of metal specimen.
Perform aqueous and super-heated steam corrosion evaluations on metallic parts.
Demonstrate a strong understanding of relational databases and how they interface with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
Possess hands-on experience in LIMS configuration, customization, and workflow programming to support laboratory testing, data management, and reporting needs.
Develop and maintain LIMS modules, debug and troubleshoot system processes, and ensure data integrity and compliance with laboratory quality standards.
Manage user accounts and access control, coordinate LIMS updates and patches, create or modify SQL queries for data extraction and optimization, and provide technical support and training to laboratory personnel.
Operate laboratory mechanical equipment common to sub-specialty area such as centrifuge, vacuum pump, oven, gas regulator valves and waste sump pumps or cut off machines, drill press, grinders and metrology tools.
Use proper precision laboratory techniques such as pipetting, titrating, analytical weighing, making quantitative transfers, and preparing volumetric dilutions.
Operate the laboratory information management system (LIMS) and the instrument control computers of a variety of types that are routinely used for the collection, analysis, storage, and retrieval of data from various reference standards and process samples run throughout the lab.
Utilize complex electrical controllers, data handling devices, and computers.
Progress in knowledge of appropriate production-floor processes to maximize support to shop operations.
Monitor all lab equipment performance and responding to out-of-control/alarm conditions.
Carry out preventative maintenance activities.
Recognize equipment malfunctions and accomplish simple repairs or corrections.
Read, interpret, and understand complex instruction manuals, engineering drawings and schematics, and interactive software programs.
Accurately record process sample and standards data in manual and computer-based logs for reliable distribution of this data to others.
Participate in the maintenance of a current spare parts and supplies inventory.
Prepare reagents and standards using appropriate laboratory techniques and knowledge of proper reference material storage requirements.
Keep the laboratory facility neat and orderly in accordance with good housekeeping practices and participate in regular facility inspections.
Participate in the maintenance of a current spare parts and supplies inventory.
Observe industrial and nuclear safety rules and safe practices at all times.
Keep current personal safety training.
Communicate questions and concerns about safety issues immediately to lab management’s attention.
Perform other duties not covered by this job description but within the scope of the lab’s objectives (e.g. method development, capability studies, reviewing and revising procedures, training and overseeing other analysts, etc.).

Benefits

medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
access to a Health Coach, a 24/7 nurse-based resource
access to the Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling, and referral services
GE Retirement Savings Plan, a tax-advantaged 401 (k) savings opportunity with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions
access to Fidelity resources and planning consultants
tuition assistance
adoption assistance
paid parental leave
disability insurance
life insurance
paid time-off for vacation or illness
12 paid holidays
two weeks of annual vacation (which may be pro-rated based on start date)