Senior Technician - Radioisotope Processing

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Radioisotope Processing Technician supports radioisotope processing for the 4501 Operations Group within the Medical and Industrial Isotope Processing Section (MIIPS), Isotope Processing and Manufacturing Division (IPMD), at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). The group uses ORNL capabilities, including the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) and radiochemical and nuclear processing facilities, to produce difficult-to-produce radioisotopes for medical, research, and industrial applications. Its work supports the U.S. Department of Energy and other government agencies, as well as private organizations and institutions. Current research and development efforts aim to establish production capabilities for Ba-133, C-14, Ho-166m, I-131, Ni-63, Ra-224/Pb-212, Se-75, Sn-117m, Tc-99, Th-228, Th-229, and W-188. The technician participates in isotope production in radiological facilities, including hot cells and gloveboxes, and works directly with nuclear materials. The role also supports technical staff in chemical and radiochemical laboratories, collaborates with scientists, engineers, and technicians to resolve complex problems, follows environmental, safety, health, and quality requirements, and assists with radioactive and hazardous waste disposal. A pre-hire physical is required after an offer. The position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge and a favorable federal background investigation; visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

Associate degree in physical or engineering sciences or a related discipline, plus 7 years of relevant experience; an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Demonstrated ability and hands-on experience safely handling highly radioactive samples.
Excellent communication skills for effective interaction with peers and technical and non-technical staff.
Self-motivation, ability to work as part of a team, and commitment to safe work practices.
Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge and pass the required federal background investigation.

Nice To Haves

Experience in wet chemistry operations and nuclear detection methods, including gamma ray spectroscopy.
Experience with glovebox and/or remote hot cell operations.
Experience in disciplined operations, quality assurance documentation, and/or good laboratory practices (GLP).
Experience in isotope production activities and chemical purification techniques.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Ability to work independently and contribute creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced research environment, prioritize multiple tasks and deadlines, and adapt to changing needs.

Responsibilities

Participate in and assist with isotope production activities in a team environment in a radiological facility, including hot cell and glovebox operations.
Work directly with nuclear materials in hot cells, gloveboxes, and radiological fume hoods to support isotope production.
Assist technical staff and other technicians with operations in chemical and radiochemical laboratories.
Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technicians to establish solutions to complex problems.
Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
Assist with coordination of radioactive and hazardous waste disposal.
Align behaviors, priorities, and interactions with ORNL’s core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service, and promote a respectful workplace and equal opportunity.