U.S. ITER Project Director

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Project Director for the U.S. ITER Project. U.S. ITER is a multi-laboratory collaboration within the DOE Office of Science, supporting the construction of the international ITER fusion facility. The project is responsible for delivering twelve critical hardware systems to the ITER facility and is approximately halfway complete, with final deliveries anticipated within the next decade. The Director of the U.S. ITER Project serves as the executive leader for the U.S. contribution to ITER, providing strategic direction and overall management. This role ensures technical, budget, and schedule objectives are met safely and compliantly, and that the project is executed in alignment with DOE expectations. The Director reports to the ORNL Laboratory Director and is a member of the UT-Battelle Leadership Team.

Requirements

Advanced degree (master’s or Ph.D.) in a science or engineering discipline.
At least 15 years of scientific/technical management experience.
Proven, successful management of large, complex scientific/technical projects.
Exceptional communication skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to a diverse audience of stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to work productively with highly skilled scientists, engineers, and project management professionals.
Experience with alternative contracting vehicles and selection methods.
Ability to travel internationally.

Nice To Haves

Experience with DOE projects executed under DOE Order 413, particularly within the Office of Science.
Background in fusion science and technology.
Established credibility and trust within the U.S. fusion research community.

Responsibilities

Leads execution of the U.S. ITER Project, including R&D, design, and fabrication/procurement of in-kind hardware, in compliance with DOE Orders governing project execution.
Ensures progress according to project technical, cost, and schedule requirements toward U.S. project goals and alignment with the international ITER schedule, subject to available funding.
Serves as the primary U.S. representative to the ITER Organization and as the U.S. expert on the ITER Executive Project Board, coordinating with the seven domestic agencies.
Interfaces with and provides timely information to the Department of Energy, advisory committees, partner laboratories, and the scientific community. Interfaces with other stakeholders as necessary to communicate the value and importance of ITER and the U.S. ITER Project.
Builds, develops, and sustains an integrated U.S. ITER team with experienced project management and technical staff, and effectively integrates partners.
Ensures safety, environmental compliance, and achievement of ESH and QA objectives.
Proactively manages project risks to support sound decision‑making.
Engages with the scientific and technical community and the private sector to further the goals of the U.S. ITER Project and in support of ITER.
Interfaces with the U.S. fusion community and ORNL’s Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate to help ensure that the U.S. best capitalizes on the ITER research phase.
Engages as a member of ORNL’s leadership team, sharing responsibility for simultaneous excellence in S&T, operations and community engagement.