HFIR Cold Source Specialist

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

On-site fitness facilities

Retirement plans

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a Cold Source Specialist to operate the cryogenic cold source facility and support HFIR operations. This role reports to the Cold Source Operations Group within the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) Operations Section, Neutron Sciences Directorate.

The role includes rotating 12‑hour shifts, safety leadership, and collaboration with engineering, safety, and management to ensure reliability and compliance of Cold Source systems.

Qualifications

• This BS degree in engineering or related science is required with 5+ years of experience; equivalent combos accepted.
• Current or previous CSSM qualification is required.
• Familiarity with Conduct of Operations and Cold Source processes.

Responsibilities

• Operate Cold Source cryogenic and support systems to support HFIR operations and neutron science missions.
• Lead and coordinate shift operations and ensure safety and compliance with procedures.
• Authorize start of work affecting Cold Source equipment and systems.
• Maintain and review Cold Source operating and emergency procedures with cross‑functional teams.
• Support maintenance planning and troubleshooting for Cold Source systems.
• Act as CSOL during absences and provide shift relief as needed.

Skills

CSSM qualification

Safety awareness

Communication skills

Education

BS in engineering or related science

Equivalent education/experience considered

Tools

Lockout/Tagout procedures

Job description

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert:

We are seeking a Cold Source Specialist who will focus on operation of the cryogenic cold source facility and support of shift personnel. This position resides in the Cold Source Operations Group in the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) Operations Section, Research Reactors Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

Operations:

Operate Cold Source cryogenic and support systems to support HFIR operations and neutron science missions.

Supports shift operations in accordance with plant procedures, HFIR Technical Safety Requirements, and Cold Source Safety Authorization Basis.

Serves as the single point of contact for authorizing, directing, and monitoring Cold Source activities.

Performs actions necessary to mitigate the consequences of Cold Source transients.

Works 12-hour rotating shift work during operating cycles.

Safely perform hydrogen addition and venting operations and take proper actions in the event of an incident.

Serves as Qualified Person for Lockout/ Tagout( Lock/Tag/Verify) process per ADM-0200 to hang and clear equipment lockouts.

Acts as the Cold Source Operations Lead (CSOL) as designated during absences.

Provides backup for shift Cold Source Staff Member (CSSM) during plant operations.

Provides shift relief on 12-hour rotating shifts for CSSMs.

Work Control:

Authorize start of work affecting Cold Source equipment and systems.

Authorizes the removal of equipment to service following maintenance, testing or operational actives.

Authorizes the return of equipment to service following maintenance, testing or operational actives.

Acts as Issuing Authority in the Lockout/Tagout (Lock/Tag/Verify) process per ADM-0200 when designated by the CSOL.

Administrative:

Write Technical Safety Requirement Tacking documents for approval.

Ensures plant operational deficiencies are identified and corrective action is initiated .

Provides feedback to operating , emergency, and administrative procedures.

Perform quarterly/annual audits for various operations procedures/programs.

Order operational supplies and equipment.

Develops and reviews Cold Source plant operating and emergency response procedures.

Works with engineering, safety, and management to obtain approvals of new and revised procedures.

Provides input to System Engineering for system upgrades to ensure the operational reliability and longevity of the Cold Source.

Provides drawing and modification reviews, as needed to support modifications and deviations.

Submits drawing discrepancy notifications and change requests when system drawing errors are noted.

Perform software validation and verification testing and review for Cold Source Distributed Control System software.

Maintenance Support:

Acquires and maintains Task Leader qualification, including writing, reviewing, and approving Maintenance Work Packages.

Provide guidance to maintenance engineers during maintenance planning and oversight/guidance during execution, as necessary.

Perform system and component testing to validate maintenance actions.

Perform troubleshooting of systems or components to ensure proper issues are identified .

Safety:

Serves as HFIR Emergency Response Team member during emergencies.

Maintains control of hydrogen control areas and personnel access for Cold Source Areas per ADM-0604.

Exercises "Stop Work" authority within the Cold Source facility for practices that could jeopardize safety.

Ensures compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality program directives.

Ensures Cold Source activities are conducted in accordance with appropriate tagging , safety, configuration control practices and Conduct of Operations per ADM-0001.

Ensures applicable environmental, safety, and health directives are followed for all Cold Source operation activities.

Professionalism:

Maintains a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of professional 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 – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

A BS degree in engineering or related science with at least 5 years of experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered (a high school diploma plus 9 years of relevant experience or an AS degree plus 7 years of relevant experience).

Current or previous CSSM qualification.

Familiarity with Conduct of Operations and Cold Source processes and procedures.

Preferred Qualifications:

A minimum of 5 years of experience as a CSSM.

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 constantly evolving needs.

Special Requirements:

Thisposition 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.

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.

Benefits at ORNL:

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract retain hardworking 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 includethe 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, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available.

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.

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.