The Nuclear Analytical Chemistry and Isotopics Laboratories (NACIL) Group of the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD) at ORNL invite applications for a Laboratory Technician working in the group’s Neutron Activation Laboratory (NAA). The successful candidate must possess the skills and technical capabilities to perform a wide range of radiological methods and analyses on samples which contain radiological constituents from environmental levels to high levels of radioactivity.  This position will support ORNL research efforts in the areas of trace element metrology, radiation measurements, and neutron activation analysis.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Independently perform analytical laboratory duties once trained to established protocols. This includes preparation of radioactive and nonradioactive samples for reactor irradiation, analysis, and disposal.

• Basic operation of gamma-ray counting equipment using established procedures.

• Chemical tasks such as standards preparations for calibration and analysis, sample separations and cleanup steps, and chemical waste segregation for disposal.

• Housekeeping of hot cell, radiochemical fume hoods, and laboratory spaces as well as the removal of radioactive wastes resulting from analytical processes.

• Obtain and maintain all ORNL training requirements for Advanced Radiological Worker qualification to enable performing analytical work in a reactor nuclear facility.

• Perform all duties while adhering to applicable radiological guidelines and procedures for conducting work within smear clean and C-zone laboratories, open and closed port glove boxes, and shielded hot cells.

• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics, especially those essential to the safe and efficient conduct of laboratory work within a nuclear facility.

Associate of Science degree in physical or life sciences or related technical area, or 2 years in a technical laboratory performing analytical processes.

• Proficiency with Windows-based personal computers for instrumentation operation and Windows Office suite for data reporting, analytical calculations, and sample management.

• Ability to work and communicate effectively, both independently and in a high-performance team environment.

• Demonstrated attention to detail and desire to plan, perform, and report highly accurate laboratory measurements.

• Possess a working knowledge of ESH&Q requirements applicable to chemical research.

Preferred:

• Experience working in contamination area laboratories with radioactive materials.

• Experience conducting analytical measurements on radioactive materials.

• Knowledgeable of laboratory radioanalytical instrumentation, especially gamma-ray spectrometers.

Other Information:

• This position may be required to cover shift work and holidays as needed.

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Any degree .
• Discipline(s):
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 )

I certify that I am at least 18 years of age and am either a student at an accredited community college or four-year institution, a recent graduate with either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree (within one semester of graduation; excludes summer semester), or I possess a skill set as evidenced by a technical certification.