Metallurgist

Idaho National Laboratory • Idaho Falls, ID

7d • $114,360 - $281,196 • Onsite

About The Position

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a geologist/metallurgist in its Critical Minerals and Geothermal Energy Department to develop innovative metallurgical processing approaches that support domestic critical materials production. The role works with geologists, chemists, chemical engineers, materials scientists, and computational scientists to develop feedstock beneficiation pathways and separations technologies for unconventional domestic resources, including mine tailings. The position emphasizes using Artificial Intelligence tools to advance domestic critical-material supply chains.

The successful candidate will build an externally funded research portfolio, share results through technical presentations and peer-reviewed publications, and work with industry partners to deploy critical mineral and material production technologies at scale. The position is based at INL’s Idaho Falls facility and follows a 9x80 schedule, with every other Friday off. It is a testing designated position requiring pre-employment and periodic drug testing. The pay range is Level 4: $114,360–$234,336, or Level 5: $137,076–$281,196; placement depends on the candidate’s experience and skills. The position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.

Requirements

• Level 4: Master of Science in geology, metallurgical engineering, or a related field and 6 or more years of professional experience in geology, metallurgical engineering, or a related field; alternatively, a Ph.D. in a related field and 4 or more years of related experience.
• Level 5: Master of Science in geology, metallurgical engineering, or a related field and 8 or more years of professional experience in geology, metallurgical engineering, or a related field; alternatively, a Ph.D. in a related field and 6 or more years of related experience.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct technical research and actively participate in R&D strategy.
• Experience engaging program sponsors at DOE, industry, and other federal agencies.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.
• Ability to perform field work, including work in remote locations within radioactive boundary areas and overnight travel for extended field work.
• Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D. in geology, metallurgical engineering, or a related field.
• Experience at a DOE national laboratory, at DOE, or engaging with DOE.
• A strong vision for applying Artificial Intelligence tools to revolutionize domestic critical-material supply chains.

Responsibilities

• Plan and conduct geological or geochemical field studies, sample collection, and testing programs to collect data for research or application.
• Plan and execute research programs developing novel comminution and beneficiation methods to improve critical materials production.
• Collaborate with geologists, chemists, chemical engineers, and materials scientists to integrate novel feedstocks with downstream processing methods.
• Pursue and secure funding through proposals and industry partnerships.
• Write peer-reviewed publications and technical reports.
• Represent INL through programmatic and technical presentations to sponsors and peers at conferences and symposia.
• Work with industry partners to deploy critical mineral and material production technologies at scale.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match for regular positions
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive relocation package

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior