Senior/Principal Analytical Radiochemist, Innovation R&D Chemistry MCFR

TerraPower•Everett, WA

64d•Hybrid

About The Position

TerraPower is seeking a Senior or Principal Analytical Radiochemist to support the Molten Chloride Fast Reactor (MCFR) program. This position reports to the MCFR R&D Chemistry Discipline Manager. The role centers on analytical radiochemistry supporting the development and deployment of next-generation molten salt reactor technology, beginning with the design of radiochemical experiments and development of analytical methodologies, and evolving toward validation of salt stability, process integrity, and product qualification in support of reactor safety, performance, and safeguards. You'll collaborate with colleagues across Safeguards, Testing & Materials, Plant Design, and Fuel Cycle teams in a high-performing, multi-disciplinary environment to provide data critical to enabling design decisions and ensuring regulatory compliance. This role is hybrid with on-site presence required four days per week at our Everett, WA laboratory. In this role, you will lead the charge in analytical radiochemistry as both expert and innovator, building the experimental backbone for TerraPower's groundbreaking molten salt reactor technology, and help power a carbon-free future.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, physical sciences, chemical or material engineering or a related technical field required; Master's or Ph.D. strongly preferred; (Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience with a Bachelor's for level 11; minimum of 15 years of relevant experience with a Bachelor's, for level 12). Experience may be partially substituted for advanced degree depending on position relevance.
Extensive hands-on experience in each of gamma spectroscopy, ICP-MS, and ICP-OES for measurement of purity of alpha-emitting radioisotopes
Proven track record in analytical method development using the above techniques
Demonstrated capability for developing procedures adherent to a NQA-1 quality program
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with demonstrated ability to convey complex technical information clearly to diverse stakeholders
The successful candidate will possess a high degree of trust and integrity, communicate openly and display respect and a desire to foster teamwork

Nice To Haves

Strong background in radiochemical separations (e.g., column separations, liquid-liquid extractions) as well as techniques relevant to chemical manipulation and purification of actinide compounds and fission products, is desirable is highly desirable
Knowledge of chemometrics and/or machine learning is desired
Knowledge of relevant instrumentation and technique fundamentals (design, theory and interpretation) is a plus
Experience with gas chromatography and neutron-based approaches is a plus

Responsibilities

Lead development and implementation of robust analytical methods and procedures for MCFR sample characterization, including gamma spectroscopy, ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and other relevant techniques
Manage analytical scope related to measuring purity, and mass balance of MCFR products, and analyzing in-process samples for quality control
Lead development and implementation of robust chemical and analytical separation processes needed to produce high quality data from high salt containing samples
Direct installation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of MCFR radioanalytical instruments and equipment
Recommend and develop alternative approaches for quantification and characterization of samples
Ensure laboratory procedures are developed, maintained, and continuously improved and maintain high standards of organization, housekeeping, and operational effectiveness in MCFR analytical and radiochemistry facilities
Ensure and promote strict adherence to site safety, radiation protection, and regulatory guidelines, working closely with health physicists, authorized users, and the RSO.
Report progress on team and project performance to senior management through presentations, updates, and technical communications
Drive continuous improvement in analytical capabilities, safety practices, and team effectiveness
Direct the radiochemistry team's analytical contributions to complement MC&A R&D activities for the MCFR fuel cycle, ensuring effective coordination with the safeguards and the testing teams
Emphasize safety in new and existing design and safe practices in all experimental activities and ensure organization, housekeeping and effectiveness of TerraPower radiochemistry use areas is maintained at a high standard at all times