Stable Isotope Processing Chemist (Technical Associate Staff Member)

Oak Ridge National Laboratory•Oak Ridge, TN

81d•Onsite

About The Position

The Stable Isotope Materials and Chemistry Group (SIMC) within the Plasma Enrichment Science and Engineering Section is seeking a Stable Isotope Processing Chemist who will focus on chemical operations associated with the post-enrichment recovery and chemical conversion of stable isotopes. This role involves transforming precious isotopically enriched materials to minimize losses and maximize yields, with applications in scientific research, radiopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment, and national security. The position is part of the Enrichment Science and Engineering Division (ESED) within the Isotope Science and Enrichment Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). ESED supports the nation through research, development, and demonstration of enrichment technologies, with ORNL being a leader in centrifuge and electromagnetic enrichment. SIMC handles pre-enrichment preparations and post-enrichment processing. The successful candidate will work closely with scientists, technicians, and engineers on challenging, milestone-driven projects for the DOE Isotope Program and other DOE mission areas. This is a rapidly expanding program offering significant opportunities for professional growth. The team values creative solutions, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to personnel and equipment safety.

Requirements

A BS degree in Chemistry or a closely related technical discipline
A minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience
Experience in inorganic and/or analytical chemistry lab work
Experience in chemical characterization techniques and quantitative analyses

Nice To Haves

Physical dexterity to handle small quantities of exotic and expensive materials
Ability to meticulously maintain detailed laboratory records and documentation
Ability to solve basic research problems
Excellent intrapersonal, written and oral communication, and organizational skills
Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs
Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the Laboratory

Responsibilities

Perform recovery, purification, chemical conversion, and characterization of isotopic material from enrichment devices, at near zero loss.
Execute intricate chemical conversion processes to achieve maximum yield of exceptionally pure product.
Utilize analytical equipment including mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, and other material evaluation techniques.
Support the development of reports, presentations, and operator aids or guidelines on technical services, conversion activities, and the processing of enriched isotopic material.
Collaborate within a multidisciplinary, multi-laboratory environment with scientists, engineers, and technicians.
Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.
Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.