Senior Enrichment Science Engineer (Casual)

Requisition Id 16325 

­­Overview:  

The Centrifuge Science (CS) Section within the Enrichment Science and Engineering Division (ESED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Senior Enrichment Science Engineer for the Mechanical Systems Modeling (MSM) Group. The Senior Enrichment Science Engineer will provide technical guidance and expertise across the design, analysis, installation, testing, and performance evaluation of high-speed rotating equipment and associated subsystems.  This role involves troubleshooting rotating systems and supporting the development of advanced separation technologies.

 

ESED serves the nation in two critical areas: advancing enrichment technologies and exploring enriched stable isotope production and applications. The division leverages an elite staff of scientists and engineers with the world-leading capabilities of ORNL to deliver groundbreaking advancements with a variety of applications, from national security to life-saving medical treatments.

ESED is the national steward for research, development, and demonstration of centrifuge technology. The successful candidate will participate in research and development (R&D) activities that strategically advances science and technology focused on gas testing of prototype enrichment devices for processing uranium-bearing and stable isotope compounds.

The Mechanical Systems Modeling Group applies first-principles physics and empirically informed methods to advance the fundamental engineering understanding of gas centrifuge systems. The group leverages analytical techniques and advanced computational tools—including finite element analysis (FEA)—to evaluate and predict the behavior of complex rotating machinery operating under extreme conditions. Through the integration of modeling, simulation, and experimental validation, the group supports the design, performance optimization, and reliability of gas centrifuges used in the processing of uranium and stable isotope compounds.

The Mechanical Systems Modeling Group is seeking a highly experienced Senior Enrichment Science Engineer to provide subject matter expertise on rotating equipment and supporting systems. This role will support ongoing R&D initiatives within the DUECE and Stable Isotopes programs.

 

The ideal candidate will bring extension hands-on experience across DOE programs, national laboratories, and industry, with a proven track record in technical leadership and engineering innovation.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

The selected candidate will provide technical guidance and expertise across the design, analysis, installation, testing, and performance evaluation of high-speed rotating equipment and associated subsystems. They will advise on the application of rotor analysis and design tools to assess rotor and suspension dynamic performance, supporting both design development and interpretation of test results.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide technical expertise in high-speed rotating equipment, including system development and testing.
• Advise on design, analysis, and performance optimization of rotating systems and associated mechanical components.
• Support program planning, execution, and technical reviews for DOE and national laboratory projects.
• Lead or contribute to integrated product teams focused on advanced mechanical assemblies and system integration.
• Conduct safety and risk assessments, including review of Safety Analysis Reports (SARs).
• Contribute to proposal evaluations, roadmap development, and strategic planning for future separation technology.
• Mentor engineering teams and provide high-level technical guidance on complex R&D initiatives.
• Prepare high-quality, peer-reviewed classified research reports.

 

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD degree and 8 years relevant postgraduate experience or a master’s degree with 12 years postgraduate experience in electrical engineering or closely related engineering or science discipline.
• Extensive experience with DOE programs, national laboratories, or equivalent federal research environments.
• Strong background in mechanical system design, testing, and analysis.
• Experience in safety analysis and compliance within high-risk engineering environment.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.