Radiochemist - Technical Associate Staff Member

Requisition Id 14814 

 

Overview:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Radioactive Materials Analytical Laboratory (RMAL) is seeking a Radiochemist/ Associate Technical Staff Member who will be involved in the performance of a full range of radiochemical tasks on samples which contain radiological constituents from environmental levels to high levels of radioactivity.  This position will support a variety of ORNL projects and programs in support of safeguards, nonproliferation, medical isotope and various nuclear programs. The position resides in the Nuclear Analytical Chemistry (NAC) Section, Chemicals Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at ORNL. The (RMAL) group works on the cutting edge of precision analytical measurements for nuclear and environmental signatures, medical isotope, and well as reference materials. Research capabilities in RMAL include quadrupole mass spectrometry, trace metals assay by ICP-MS to support environmental stewardship and isotopic production at ORNL, isotopic analyses related to nuclear fuel cycle and isotopic production, chemical separations, alpha spectrometry, and gamma spectrometry. 

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Perform sample preparations and chemical separations for radiochemical determinations of nuclear materials.

• Independently perform laboratory tests as needed to assist in developing, modifying, and refining operational and/or experimental procedures.

• Independently perform detailed analytical operations in C-zoned laboratories and radiochemical hoods and gloveboxes.

• Obtain and maintain all ORNL training requirements for a radiation worker performing analytical work in radiological facilities to include being qualified as a respirator wearer.

• Utilize Windows based personal computers, instrumentation operation, data reporting, analytical calculations, and sample management.

• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements.

• Lead by example according to ORNL’s “Research Code of Conduct” for proposing, performing, and communicating research.

• Ensure all work is carried out safely, securely, and in compliance with ORNL’s ESH&Q policies, standards, and procedures.

• Conduct laboratory tests to develop, modify, and refine operational and experimental procedures.

• 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.

 

Basic Qualifications:

• A BS degree in chemistry, biology, physics or closely related discipline.

• A minimum of 3 years of experience with radiochemical instrumentation operations and troubleshooting.

 
Preferred Qualifications:

Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.

• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks on time and adapt to evolving needs.

• Experience working in ISO17025 accredited laboratory setting.

• Experience performing data analyses and review under standard operating procedures to meet regulatory requirements.

• Experience translating R&D activities to analytical protocols.

• Familiarity with statistical analysis, uncertainty terms and quality ob