Radiochemistry Group Lead

Argonne National Laboratory•Lemont, IL

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Argonne National Laboratory has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Radiochemistry Group Leader within the Radiological Protection (RP) Division. The Analytical Services team’s mission is to provide high quality measurements and accurate data to primarily support the RP Division and Environmental Protection Program (EPP). This individual will work within a team of scientists responsible for analysis of liquid and solid samples for radionuclide, organic and inorganic analytes. These measurements allow for research and operations to be safely conducted onsite and help maintain the necessary compliance for regulatory requirements. The Radiochemistry Group Leader reports to the Analytical Services Manager, will provide first level leadership and supervise the daily technical operations of the Radiochemistry team to provide critical data during routine and event driven situations. The individual will directly manage, plan, coordinate and prioritize activities for a small team of 4-5 Analytical Radiochemists with a high volume of routine analyses and occasional high priority requests to accomplish. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, solid leadership through effective communication, goal setting, emotional intelligence, strong decision-making, strategic thinking, coaching, and mentoring. The ideal candidate will have comprehensive knowledge of radiochemistry, radionuclide separation chemistry, and instrumental methods of measuring low-level radioactivity in fecal, urine, whole-body, soil, water, and air filters. Additionally, extensive knowledge of DOE and ANSI standards, along with implementing those requirements to maintain a Radiobioassay program accredited to the Department of Energy Laboratory Accreditation Program is required. Additional responsibilities: Assist the Analytical Services (AS) Manager in implementing the AS Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) and fulfill the Radiochemistry Group Leader responsibilities as documented. Serve as the principal contact for maintaining a high level of quality and customer service to support Radiological Protection (RP) and Environmental Protection (EP) programs, and others as needed. Ensure the timely review and implementation of lab-wide procedures and policies that impact the safe operations of the radiochemistry team. Lead management assessments to ensure compliance with Argonne and DOE requirements; develop effective corrective actions, assign accountable owners, and track to closure. Propose and execute method development plans to improve the radiochemistry team’s capabilities and accuracy/precision of measurement procedures. Experience with participation in Proficiency Testing studies, such as ORNL, MAPEP and DOELAP programs, along with coordinating follow-up investigations. Serve as either the primary or backup Material Balance Area Custodian and ensure accurate tracking of radioactive material inventory via CURIE database. Provide effective communication with peers, customers, and stakeholders to convey important technical information at a level of understanding that allows everyone to accomplish objectives. May act in the role of the Analytical Services Manager when required.

Requirements

Strong skills with both verbal and written communication for effective interaction with colleagues, customers, and stakeholders
Ability to train, mentor and coach a team to consistently produce high quality results under time constraints is critical.
Extensive knowledge of sample preparation and advanced instrumentation techniques utilizing Alpha spectrometry, Gamma spectrometry, Gas-flow alpha/beta counters and Liquid Scintillation is essential.
Knowledge and hands-on experience with experimental design, method development, and statistical treatment of data for radiochemical analysis is crucial.
Demonstrated knowledge and experience with radioisotope extraction chemistry, particularly with resins to perform separations is beneficial.
Proven ability to establish and maintain effective interpersonal relationships, both internal and external, to achieve individual, team, and Division objectives and goals.
Awareness of the DOELAP community and requirement to maintain accreditation.
Bachelor’s Degree in a science discipline (Chemistry, Radiochemistry, or Nuclear Chemistry is most aligned) with 10+ years’ experience.
Demonstrated ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree and/or relevant professional certifications will be considered.

Responsibilities

Assist the Analytical Services (AS) Manager in implementing the AS Quality Assurance Plan (QAP) and fulfill the Radiochemistry Group Leader responsibilities as documented.
Serve as the principal contact for maintaining a high level of quality and customer service to support Radiological Protection (RP) and Environmental Protection (EP) programs, and others as needed.
Ensure the timely review and implementation of lab-wide procedures and policies that impact the safe operations of the radiochemistry team.
Lead management assessments to ensure compliance with Argonne and DOE requirements; develop effective corrective actions, assign accountable owners, and track to closure.
Propose and execute method development plans to improve the radiochemistry team’s capabilities and accuracy/precision of measurement procedures.
Experience with participation in Proficiency Testing studies, such as ORNL, MAPEP and DOELAP programs, along with coordinating follow-up investigations.
Serve as either the primary or backup Material Balance Area Custodian and ensure accurate tracking of radioactive material inventory via CURIE database.
Provide effective communication with peers, customers, and stakeholders to convey important technical information at a level of understanding that allows everyone to accomplish objectives.
May act in the role of the Analytical Services Manager when required.