Mass Spectrometry Chemist- Technical Associate

Requisition Id 14581 

­­Overview:  

We are seeking an Associate Staff Member who will be involved in the performance of a full range of mass spectrometry methods and analyses on radiological samples. This position will support a variety of ORNL projects and programs including its environmental stewardship programs, research for the nuclear fuel cycles, and chemical operations associated with the production and purification of radioisotopes. This position resides in the Nuclear Analytical Chemistry (NAC) Section’s Radioactive Materials Analytical Laboratory (RMAL) Group in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).   

This role involves preparing and analyzing samples to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, developing and optimizing analytical methods for trace element and isotope ratio analysis, and maintaining ICP-MS instruments for peak performance. The successful candidate will interpret and report analytical data, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and follow strict safety and radiological protocols when handling radioactive materials. Additional responsibilities include troubleshooting instrument performance, documenting experimental procedures, and ensuring adherence to regulatory guidelines such as those set by the ISO 17025:2017, FDA, NRC, and/or customers. This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of nuclear and radiopharmaceutical research while contributing to advancements in analytical chemistry and quality control.

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 analytical laboratory experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Maintain effective communication about scientific efforts both internally and externally, including publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at scientific meetings.
• Collaborate with staff to address novel and complex technical issues.
• An understanding of mass spectrometry principles, method development, and data interpretation.
• Experience in use and troubleshooting of mass spectrometers.
• Experience with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is a plus.
• Experience in elemental ICPMS quadrupole maintenance, setup, and operations. Knowledgeable in fully quantitative, semi-quantitative, and high precision isotope ratio measurements for quantification of radiological isotopes in highly radioactive sample streams.
• Knowledge in modern sample preparation methods used in isotopic and elemental characterizations with emphases on nuclear materials and experience in the chemistry and separations of lanthanide and actinides.
• Knowledge and experience working in C-zone laboratories and use of glove boxes and radiochemical hood enclosures as well as experience in the safety practices associated with handling radioactive materials.
• Strong interpersonal skills and working effectively as a team member.
• Ability to respond quickly to diverse and shifting demands with sudden deadlines on tight schedules.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Motivated and safety conscious.

Special Requirements:

Visa Sponsorship:

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.