Radiochemical Technologist

Canadian Nuclear Laboratories; Laurentian Hills; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nuclear technology organization in Canada seeks a Radiochemical Technologist for its Chalk River location. The ideal candidate will conduct experiments and analyses in radiochemistry, support research in radioisotope production, and collaborate with a team focused on improving health outcomes. Candidates should have relevant educational backgrounds and experience, with a strong commitment to quality and safety. This role offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Paid time off

Day one benefits

Tuition support

Pension

Qualifications

• Experience preparing working procedures and technical reports.
• Knowledge of radioactive compounds.
• Familiarity with specialized radiochemistry software.

Responsibilities

• Conducting radiochemistry experiments and analyses.
• Preparing experimental protocols related to radionuclide production.
• Participating in lab operations and experiments safely.

Skills

Advanced understanding of radiochemistry

Good computer skills

Knowledge of radiation protection

Excellent work performance

Education

Graduated from a recognized institute of advanced technology

Secondary School Graduation Diploma

Tools

Radiation detectors

HPLC

TLC

Job description

Our Chalk River location is looking for a Radiochemical Technologist to support our Radiobiology and Health Branch. Can you see yourself in a role where you will be supporting research and development activities in the areas of radioisotope production, radiochemical processing and radiopharmaceutical development and testing, for medical/health applications? You will also contribute to the exciting research program in the Isotopes & Radiopharmaceutical Sciences section working alongside an experienced team of scientists and technologists to deliver on Federal and Commercial projects with the mission to improve the safety and efficacy of new targeted radiotherapeutics for the benefit and Health of Canadians, and advance new isotope production strategies. If this sounds like the role for you, apply today!

What you will be doing!

• Conducting radiochemistry based experiments, developing and performing radiochemical separations, and performing analytical techniques for a variety of radiological samples.
• Acquiring detailed knowledge and understanding of experimental procedures and instrumental methods used in the laboratory and keeping up to date with current developments in the field.
• Performing detailed radiochemical analysis of samples and preparing data analysis reports.
• Preparing experimental protocols and executing them. These can be related to one or more of the following: radionuclide production, radionuclide separation and purification, radiolabelling of small molecules, peptides, and antibodies, stability studies, analytical method development, in vitro tests in cell lines, in vivo tests in animals, small-animal imaging, etc.
• Participating in the routine operation of a lab-scale Th-229/Ac-225 generator.
• Setting up experiments, tests, and analyses using a variety of instruments and techniques, including radio-HPLC, radio-TLC, alpha spectroscopy, gamma spectroscopy, and automated liquid handling.
• Calibrating, operating and maintaining of standard laboratory equipment such as balances, centrifuges, water purification system, pipettes, pH meters, UV visible spectrometers, etc.
• Operating computer software in equipment-control applications, using and developing customized spreadsheets for calculations and result reporting.
• Developing, modifying, updating, and following Standard Analytical Procedures (SAPs), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Standard Calibration Procedures (SCPs).
• Preparing chemical solutions, maintaining the chemical inventory, and overseeing the collection and disposal of chemical and radioactive wastes in the laboratory.
• Keeping proper laboratory notes.
• Participating in the analysis of experimental results and contributing to the preparation of summary reports for internal use or external clients.
• Adhering and conforming to CNL’s S&T QA Programs and preparing QA documentation, including non-conformances reporting.
• Developing and conducting programs of sampling and analysis for quality control purposes, either directly or through interaction with Analytical Chemistry services.
• Applying and documenting the use of equipment or procedures in a unique and innovative way.
• Sourcing equipment from new vendors and navigating the procurement process.
• Working and communicating effectively as a team member, and coordinating activities with other team members.
• Working safely within a Licensed Nuclear Facility.
• Ensuring compliance with facility regulations and requirements.
• Other duties as assigned by your manager.

What we are looking for:

• Education
  • Graduated from a recognized institute of advanced technology in a field relevant to the position (Radiochemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Forensics, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering Technology or related field), or equivalent formal education, preference will be given to these candidates. OR
  • Secondary School Graduation Diploma or equivalent and normally has more than three (3) years pertinent experience or the equivalent in experience, additional education and/or training.
• Experience
  • Experience preparing working procedures and technical reports.
  • Knowledge or experience working with radioactive compounds (e.g., one or more among identification, separation, purification, radiolabelling) is a significant asset.
  • Knowledge and work experience with radiation safety principles is desired (CNL specific training will be provided).
  • With chemical separation techniques for metal ions, including co-precipitation, column chromatography separation, solvent extraction etc., is desirable.
  • With the use of radiation detectors, gamma-spectrometry, alpha-spectrometry, liquid scintillation counters, and similar radiation counting equipment is desirable.
  • With HPLC, TLC, and similar chromatographic techniques and/or MS, ICP-MS is desirable.
  • Familiarity with specialized chemistry/radiochemistry software is a strong asset.
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
  • Advanced understanding of the principles of radiochemistry and radioanalytical techniques.
  • Good computer skills, including word processing and spreadsheets is required.
  • Excellent work performance, with good knowledge of, and commitment to quality assurance.
  • Knowledge of radiation protection is desired, and Group-2 Radiation Protection training is required (provided by CNL).
• Security Clearance Eligibility Required
  • Reliability Status with Site Access Security Clearance (SASC), which has a minimum requirement of 3-5 years of verifiable history in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and/or the United Kingdom. CNL implements security screening in accordance with the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat's “Standard on Security Screening” and the “Policy on Government Security.”

Why CNL?

Does working with a team across Canada to advance nuclear science and technology for a clean and secure world speak to you? We're reinventing ourselves to be the pacesetters so we can lead the charge in solving the problems that matter, like building the next generation of clean nuclear and hydrogen energy solutions, developing new and better-targeted cancer treatments, and continuing to lead the world in environmental remediation.

We offer a complete total rewards package :

• Paid time off (vacation, sick, floater & personal);
• Benefits effective day one, that’s right, no waiting period;
• Tuition support
• and a pension!

Do Our Priorities Resonate with You?

• Clean energy for today and tomorrow.
• Restore and protect the Environment.
• Contribute to the health of Canadians.

Location:

CNL’s Chalk River laboratory is nestled in the Ottawa Valley and affords our employees an environmentally pristine area with extensive forests, hills, and numerous small lakes. These support a variety of wildlife typical to the southern edge of the Canadian Shield. Many surrounding towns, such as Pembroke, Petawawa, and Deep River, provide unparalleled outdoor adventures at your doorstep!

CNL is committed to providing an atmosphere free from barriers that promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion in achieving our mission. CNL welcomes and celebrates employees, stakeholders, and partners of all racial, cultural, and ethnic identities. Please read here for more on our DE&I Commitment.

CNL also supports a workplace environment and corporate culture built on our Core Values: Respect, Teamwork, Accountability, Safety, Integrity, and Excellence. These values encourage equitable employment practices and career prospects, including accommodations for all employees.

CNL is committed to being an equal‑opportunity employer. If you require accommodation measures during any phase of the hiring process, please indicate via our ATS when applying. All information received regarding accommodation requests will be kept confidential.

The Chalk River Laboratories site is located on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe people. As an organization, CNL recognizes and appreciates their historic connection to this place. CNL also recognizes the contributions that First Nations, Métis, Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples have made, both in shaping and strengthening this community in particular, and this province and country as a whole.