Beam Instrumentation Systems Lead

Requisition Id 16335 

­­Overview:  

We are seeking a Beam Instrumentation Systems Lead to support the design, development, implementation, and maintenance of beam instrumentation systems for the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This role contributes to improving accelerator performance, reliability, and availability through advanced diagnostic and control system development. This position reports to the Beam Instrumentation Group Leader within the Accelerator Science & Technology Section, Research Accelerator Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).  

 

The Spallation Neutron Source is a world-leading facility and the most powerful pulsed proton accelerator in the world, producing neutron beams for cutting-edge materials science research. ORNL is the U.S. Department of Energy’s largest science and energy laboratory, delivering transformative solutions in energy, science, and national security.

Within SNS, the Beam Instrumentation (BI) Group is responsible for end-to-end beam diagnostic systems used for accelerator tuning, operation, and performance optimization. The group also develops advanced diagnostic technologies for high-power proton and H⁻ accelerators and accumulator rings, while working closely with technical teams across the Research Accelerator Division.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Lead BI technicians in maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, testing, and shutdown activities, including preparation for installations and upgrades.
• Plan, schedule, and track corrective and preventive maintenance for beam instrumentation systems, including calibration, verification, and failure analysis to improve reliability.
• Develop and manage work packages and system documentation (schematics, procedures, test results, and operating instructions) in compliance with work control and record-keeping requirements.
• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and other departments to manufacture assemblies, resolve design deficiencies, and implement system upgrades and new installations.
• Provide operational support for accelerator systems, including occasional off-hours and weekend coverage for 24/7 operations.
• Perform supervisory duties as needed, including task assignment, work definition, and oversight, while ensuring compliance with safety (ESH&Q) standards and professional ethics.

• 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 electrical engineering technology or a related field, with at least 5 years of relevant professional experience.
• Proficiency with electronic test equipment (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes, function generators) and experience in fabrication and assembly using hand and power tools.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, technical drawings, test procedures, and manufacturer datasheets.
• Experience working in environments involving radiation, cryogenic systems, and electrically controlled equipment.
• Experience working independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Experience using AutoCAD for technical drawings.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Working knowledge of National Instruments systems, LabVIEW programming, motion control systems, and instrumentation calibration.
• Familiarity with instrumentation and motion control system components.
• Prior work in a neutron user facility, synchrotron light source, or other large-scale scientific user facility preferred.
• Background in installation and maintenance of vacuum systems.
• Ability to produce mechanical and instrumentation fabrication drawings using CAD tools.
• Ability to design, layout, and specify printed circuit boards for beam instrumentation system procurement.
• Experience with RF systems and competent in usage of RF measurement equipment and techniques for RF signal testing, Spectrum Analyzer, Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR), Network Analyzer, RF Signal Generator, Power Meter, Sweep Generators.

 

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