Isotope Production Analytical Chemist- Technical Professional

Requisition Id 14468 

 

­­Overview:  

We are seeking an Isotope Production Analytical Chemist who will perform detailed sample preparations, radiochemical separations and measurement protocols on samples which contain radiological constituents from environmental levels to high levels of radioactivity. This position will support ORNL scientific staff conducting research and chemical operations associated with the production and purification of radioisotopes and R&D for nuclear fuels.  This position resides in the Nuclear Analytical Chemistry (NAC) Section’s Transuranium Analytical Laboratory (TAL) Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).   

 

As part of our analytical support team, you will perform proceduralized radiochemical protocols on nuclear materials in support of the TAL’s environmental stewardship support and Radiochemical Engineering Development Center’s (REDC) isotope programs and fuels cycle research and development. You will support advanced radiochemical operations for the analyses of samples which contain radiological constituents from environmental levels to high levels of radioactivity.  You will work in radiological hoods, gloveboxes, and hot cells daily.

 

Once trained, you will assume a rotating four 10hr/day work week schedule (7:00am – 5:30pm) that includes weekends and holidays. Candidate must also be available to work a variety of shift schedules on short notice if required. 

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Work independently in performing established chemical laboratory procedures for titrations, dissolutions, dilutions and separations of high activity samples in preparation for analytical determinations.
• Independently perform detailed analytical operations in alpha gloveboxes and shielded hot cells.
• Independently perform laboratory experiments as needed to assist in developing, modifying, and refining operational and/or experimental procedures
• Operate radiochemistry analytical instrumentation, including NMC and Protean gas flow proportional counters, Canberra 4100/4200 gas flow proportional counters, Perkin Elmer 5110R liquid scintillation counter, BF3 neutron detector, and Windows based alpha and gamma ray spectrometry system (Canberra Genie-2K/ORTEC Alphavision & Gammavision) utilizing HPGe and Silicon Surface Barrier detectors.
• Interpret data from radiochemistry measurements for scientific/sample reports.
• Utilize Windows based personal computers instrumentation operation, data reporting, analytical calculations, and sample management.
• Obtain and maintain all ORNL training requirements for a radiation worker performing analytical work in designated non-reactor radiological facilities (Category II or III) and radiological facilities to include being qualified as a respirator wearer.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• Maintain strong dedication to the implementation and perpetuation of values and 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 chemistry, biology, environmental science or other technical related discipline.
• A minimum of 2 years of analytical laboratory or nuclear operations experience.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience working in C-zone laboratories, use of glove boxes, and shielded hot cells in a Category II, non-reactor nuclear facility.
• Experience with modern sample preparation methods used in isotopic and elemental characterizations with emphases on nuclear and chemical materials.