Senior Laboratory Technician - Radiochemistry

Company Description

QSA Global, Inc. specializes in supplying state of the art gamma radiography and portable X-ray systems used in non-destructive testing (NDT) as well as high-performance radiation sources used in oil well logging (OWL), industrial processes, and nuclear medicine. With over 100 years of organizational experience, we distinguish ourselves as leading experts in radiation source design and radioisotope solutions.

QSA Global, Inc. is part of ITW, a global Fortune 500 diversified industrial manufacturer of value-added consumables and specialty equipment with related service businesses. The Company focuses on profitable growth with strong returns across worldwide platforms and businesses. The businesses serve local customers and markets around the globe, with a significant presence in developed as well as emerging markets. 

Job Description

QSA Global is seeking an experienced Senior Laboratory Technician - Radiochemistry to join our team focused on developing and implementing novel radiochemical processes to extract and purify Ra-226 and Pb-210 from spent (legacy) Ra-226 sources. The highly purified product will be used as a target material in irradiations to make other short-lived alpha-emitting radionuclides by our customers (e.g., for applications in targeted alpha therapy). We are specifically looking for a capable radiochemist with operational experience to help set up and carry out source disassembly, dissolution, and purification operations in QSA’s radioisotope laboratories and to operate sophisticated analytical equipment to verify purity, quality, and yield. 

The role is expected to expand over time to include other radioisotopes and other process operations. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Assist in the production, separation, and purification of radioisotopes, with a focus on radium-226. 
• Operate and maintain equipment for radioisotope handling, including hot cells, radiation detectors, and chemical synthesis apparatus. 
• Conduct complex process tasks under the supervision of senior scientists, following established procedures and safety protocols. 
• Support the scaling and optimization of radiochemical processes. 
• Monitor and record process data, ensuring accuracy and compliance with quality standards. 
• Assist in the preparation of radioactive materials for experiments and production runs. 
• Maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment, following radiation safety guidelines and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP). 
• Assist in the preparation of reports, logs, and records related to process operations and experiments. 
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of radiochemistry equipment. 
• Adhere to all regulatory requirements, including handling, storing, and disposing of radioactive materials.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Radiochemistry, Chemical Technology, or a related technical field. 
• 2+ years of experience working in a laboratory environment, preferably with radioisotopes or hazardous materials. 
• Familiarity with radium chemistry or related radioisotopes is highly desirable. 
• Strong foundation in the principles and practices of inorganic and physical chemistry, with emphasis on materials chemistry and analytical techniques relevant to radioisotope handling and processing. 
• Understanding of the physical properties of radioisotopes, including decay mechanisms, radiation types, and applications of radioisotopes in scientific and medical settings. 
• Hands-on experience with the preparation, isolation, and manipulation of radioisotopes in a laboratory or production environment, including equipment such as glove boxes, hot cells, and radiation detectors.  
• Experience with radioactive materials is preferred, but experience with chemical synthesis, manufacturing, or working with dangerous chemicals (e.g., reactive, toxic, or carcinogenic substances) will also be considered. 
• Experience with sample preparation and operation of techniques like ICP-MS, ICP-OES, SEM, XRD, and Gamma Spectroscopy is desirable but not mandatory. 
• Effective collaboration in multidisciplinary teams, spanning R&D, production, RA/QA, and engineering design. 
• An entrepreneurial mindset, ready to engage in innovative approaches and think creatively to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. 
• Excellent verbal, written, interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills with the ability to present at all levels within the organization and with customers. 

Additional Information

At QSA Global, Inc. and our parent company ITW, we are deeply committed to the professional growth and career advancement of our employees. Recognizing the potential in our team is a top priority, and we actively foster an environment where high-performing i