Technical Professional, Irradiated Materials Examination

Oak Ridge National Laboratory - Oak Ridge, TN

Part-time - Entry Level

Oak Ridge, TN

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Technical Professional position at Oak Ridge National Laboratory focuses on metallography and mechanical testing of irradiated materials within the Low-Activation Materials Development & Analysis (LAMDA) Laboratory. The role involves conducting experiments, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety in a collaborative environment, while also providing training and supervision to junior staff. The position supports nuclear materials research programs and requires effective communication with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Prepare high-quality samples for optical and electron microscopy of irradiated and nonirradiated materials.
• Conduct mechanical testing and other characterization/measurement tasks for the mechanical and thermal properties of materials.
• Train and supervise junior staff and student workers; troubleshoot technical issues and resolve equipment malfunctions while collaborating with project leaders and researchers to ensure quality control.
• Design and schedule testing and examination tasks in radiological materials laboratories, including optical microscopy, specimen polishing, and thermal and mechanical testing.
• Acquire, process, and report test data in accordance with manuals, procedures, and/or project proposals.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.
• Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in materials science and engineering, nuclear engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in operation of materials testing and characterization equipment and/or in materials evaluation and property data analysis. A master's degree with a minimum of 1 year of experience may also be considered.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in handling radioactive or hazardous materials, or equivalent training/education.
• Proficiency in operating material testing and examination equipment, including sample polishing machines, mechanical testing systems, and optical and scanning electron microscopes.
• Demonstrated track record of meticulous manual work, with a strong attention to detail.
• Previous experience in a radiological or nuclear facility, with familiarity in relevant safety protocols and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills, enabling effective team building and collaboration both within and outside ORNL, as well as the ability to work independently and adapt to dynamic research environments.

Benefits

• Medical and retirement plans
• Flexible work hours
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities
• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts