Technical Professional, Irradiated Materials Examination

Technical Professional, Irradiated Materials Examination

The Radiation Effects and Microstructural Analysis Group (REMAG) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking technical professionals to serve as a metallography specialist and/or as a mechanical testing expert at the Low-Activation Materials Development & Analysis (LAMDA) Laboratory. This position involves conducting various experiments on irradiated materials and is located within our Materials in Extremes (MiE) Section, part of the Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD). The opportunity to work part-time is also available.

A successful candidate will take primary responsibility for experimental tasks related to nuclear materials research programs, as well as maintaining experimental equipment and ensuring safe and hygienic working conditions. Responsibilities also include sample preparation for electron microscopy and/or specialized mechanical testing, as directed by program and project managers. The LAMDA facility is equipped with a comprehensive suite of characterization tools for the post-irradiation examination of metallic and ceramic materials under various conditions. Collaboration with ORNL scientists and research support staff is essential to effectively plan and execute a diverse range of testing and characterization tasks for radioactive materials. Additionally, the incumbent should be able to manage other operational aspects within the LAMDA radiological areas dedicated to working with radioactive materials daily. Given the collaborative nature of irradiated materials testing in the LAMDA laboratory, effective communication with radiation protection technicians and other radiological workers is necessary for a seamless workflow.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Prepare high-quality samples for optical and electron microscopy of irradiated and nonirradiated materials.
• Conduct mechanical testing and other characterization/measurement tasks for the mechanical and thermal properties of materials.
• Train and supervise junior staff and student workers; troubleshoot technical issues and resolve equipment malfunctions while collaborating with project leaders and researchers to ensure quality control.
• Design and schedule testing and examination tasks in radiological materials laboratories, including optical microscopy, specimen polishing, and thermal and mechanical testing.
• Acquire, process, and report test data in accordance with manuals, procedures, and/or project proposals.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering, nuclear engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in operation of materials testing and characterization equipment and/or in materials evaluation and property data analysis. A master’s degree with a minimum of 1 year of experience may also be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in handling radioactive or hazardous materials, or equivalent training/education.
• Proficiency in operating material testing and examination equipment, including sample polishing machines, mechanical testing systems, and optical and scanning electron microscopes.
• Demonstrated track record of meticulous manual work, with a strong attention to detail.
• Previous experience in a radiological or nuclear facility, with familiarity in relevant safety protocols and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills, enabling effective team building and collaboration both within and outside ORNL, as well as the ability to work independently and adapt to dynamic research environments.

Special Requirements:

• Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

Benefits at ORNL:

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain talented people. The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for 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:

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.