Logo
Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Technical Associate Staff Member - ICPMS Analytical Chemist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States, 37830

Save Job

Overview

We are seeking a Technical Associate Staff Member who will focus on the performance of a full range of radiochemical and ICPMS analyses, including sample preparations and chemical separations, for our nuclear and isotope programs. This position resides in the Transuranium Analytical Laboratory group (TAL) in the Chemical Sciences Division (CSD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). Major Duties / Responsibilities

Serve as an analytical chemist utilizing ICP-MS, ICP-OES for the determinations of elemental, isotopic, and impurity analysis on isotope production samples. REDC processing decisions, nuclear material accountability, and radiological waste disposal criteria are often based on TAL ICP-MS determinations. Participate in the measurements of anions and cations using Ion Chromatography (IC). Be skillful and knowledgeable of elemental ICPMS quadrupole maintenance, setup, and operations. Conduct fully quantitative, semi-quantitative, and high precision isotope ratio measurements for quantification of radiological isotopes in highly radioactive sample streams. Lead and participate in planning workflow for the laboratory, including establishing priorities within and between projects, and determining the best direction of the laboratory efforts for various experiments, tests, and analysis. Collaborate in the development of new analytical methodologies and analytical instrumentation. Presentation of developed work at appropriate professional conferences or in peer reviewed journals. Independently perform sample preparations and chemical separations for radiochemical determinations of nuclear materials. 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. Independently perform laboratory tests as needed to assist in developing, modifying, and refining operational and/or experimental procedures as well as authoring updates or new procedures based on result of the tests. Obtain and maintain all ORNL training requirements for a radiation worker performing analytical work in designated radiological facilities. Utilize Windows-based personal computers, instrumentation operation, data reporting, analytical calculations, and sample management. 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. Basic Qualifications

BS degree in chemistry, engineering, biology, physics, or a closely related discipline. A minimum of 2 years of analytical laboratory experience. Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the chemistry and separations of lanthanide and actinides, as well as safety consideration for handling. Demonstrated knowledge and experience with modern sample preparation methods used in isotopic and elemental characterizations with emphases on nuclear materials. Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the safety practices associated with handling radioactive materials. Familiarity with the operation of Thermo Scientific ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and IC systems. Familiarity with the operation of 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. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as a team member. Ability to respond quickly to diverse and shifting demands with sudden deadlines on tight schedules. Advanced expertise with sample preparation methods used in isotopic and elemental characterizations. A proven ability to work safely in accordance with ES&H standards and procedures. 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 within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs. Special Requirements

L clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program. 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. Seniority level

Entry level Employment type

Full-time Job function

Information Technology Industries

Research Services

#J-18808-Ljbffr