NDA Specialist

Consolidated Nuclear Security; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Consolidated Nuclear Security in Oak Ridge, TN seeks an NDA Specialist to support non-destructive analysis of uranium and other isotopes using gamma-ray spectroscopy and neutron counting.

You will calibrate, operate, and maintain NDA instrumentation, collect and evaluate data, and generate reports while collaborating with cross-functional teams across facilities. A relevant science degree and 2–7 years of experience are required, with DOE clearance considerations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, physical science, engineering or related field required.
• Master's degree in chemistry, physical science, engineering or related field preferred.
• DOE O 426.2A requirements or equivalent experience required.
• 2–7 years of relevant experience; Q clearance eligibility preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform NDA measurements of uranium and other isotopes in NDA Labs.
• Calibrate, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation.
• Collect, reduce, and evaluate data; enter into LIMS.
• Prepare reports and assist in method development and updates.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across facilities.
• Support stand-up of UPF labs by managing project timelines.
• Ensure quality and compliance with DOE orders and internal standards.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, physical science, engineering or related field

Master's degree in chemistry, physical science, engineering or related field

Tools

Canberra/Mirion APEX

Python

Job description

Requisition ID20288-Posted09/17/2026-Other Functional Areas- Level of Experience (1) -Travel - 30% or less- Job Location Options (1)

Location: Oak Ridge, TN
Job Title: NDA Specialist
Career Level From: Senior Associate
Career Level To: Senior Specialist
Job Specialty: Analytical Chemistry

What You'll Do

Under the direction of laboratory manager and senior staff, measure uranium and other radioactive isotopes utilzing non-destructive assay techniques, including gamma-ray spectroscopy and passive/active neutron counting.

Individual will:

• Perform non-destructive analysis (NDA) of uranium and other radioactive isotopes in the NDA Labs in multiple facilities.
• Calibrate, operate, maintain and troubleshoot instrumentation and equipment in the laboratory.
• Collect, reduce and evaluate data, peer review data and enter data into the laboratory information management systems.
• Prepare various reports and assist in procedural development and modification.
• Review and modernize current procedures as well as develop new methods and procedures for analytical services.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with support organizations, project teams, production operations, and more.
• Assist in the stand-up of laboratories in the Uranium Processing Facility (UPF) through managing timelines for project deliverables
• Esnure quality and compliance requirements are met

What You Can Expect

• Meaningful work and unique opportunities to support missions vital to national and global security
• Top-notch, dedicated colleagues
• Generous pay and benefits with a stable organization
• Career advancement and professional development programs
• Work-life balance fostered through flexible work options and wellness initiatives
• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, physical science, engineering or related field. Minimum 2 years of relevant experience. Typical experience ranging from 4 to 7 years.
• OR Master's degree in chemistry, physical science, engineering or related field. Minimum 1 year of relevant experience. Typical experience ranging from 4 to 7 years.
• In addition, the applicant must meet the requirements of DOE O 426.2A (i.e., Baccalaureate in engineering or related scientific major, 2 years job-related, and 1-year nuclear experience; or a DOE O 426.2A alternative).

Preferred Job Requirements

• Experience in the field of NDA theory and practical experience in the use of gamma-ray and neutron-based NDA measurement instrumentation and NDA measurement software and analysis is preferred for this position.
• Demonstrates strong organizational and analytical abilities, effective problem-solving skills, and a capacity for continuous learning and development of innovative methods for non-destructive uranium measurements.
• Work-related experience includes knowledge of nuclear material operations, nuclear production operations, and other processes within the Nuclear Weapons Complex.
• Knowledge in computer programming, especially with Canberra/Mirion APEX software systems and the Python computer language.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, including technical writing skills.
• High level of personal motivation, strong leadership skills, and the ability to work within changing conditions to meet short deadlines.

Why Y-12?

You get #morethanajob. We encourage employees to achieve a healthy personal balance among home, work and the community. One of the ways we embrace work-life balance is by offering flexible work arrangements that provide alternatives to the traditional workweek, while still meeting business needs. Top talent and personal commitment mean more to our success than any other factors, so we reward our people with the kinds of benefits that make a positive difference in the quality of their lives. Benefits such as: medical plan, prescription drug plan, vision plan, dental plan, employer matched 401(k) savings plan, disability coverage, education reimbursement and many more. Want to stay healthy and fit but hate the cost of a gym membership? Take advantage of one of our onsite workout facilities and eat healthy in our onsite cafeterias. Much more than a workplace, at Y-12, you can build a career that lasts a lifetime.

Notes

The minimum education and experience for the lowest career level in the job posting range are listed under Minimum Job Requirements. Successful candidates hired into a higher career level than the minimum in the range must meet the requirements listed in the job leveling charts for the career level into which they are being hired.

If a range of Career Levels is posted, i.e., Senior Associate to Senior Specialist, internal applicants already in one of the Career Levels would come across at their current Career Level. Internal applicants currently in a lower level Career Level would move to the lowest posted Career Level.

Requires a Q clearance; however all qualified candidates will be considered regardless of their current clearance status. The ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q clearance is required.

This position may require entry into the Material Access Areas (MAA) and participation in the Human Reliability Program (10 C.F.R. Part 712), which requires successful competition of a DOE counterintelligence evaluation and may include a counterintelligence-scope polygraph examination.

This position may be categorized as a "designated position" identified by 10 C.F.R. Part 709, requiring successful completion of a DOE counterintelligence evaluation that may include a counterintelligence-scope polygraph examination.

CNS is a drug-free workplace. Candidates accepting a job offer will be required to pass a pre-placement physical, drug screening and background investigation. As an employee, you may be required to receive and maintain a security clearance from the United States Department of Energy in order to meet eligibility requirements for access to sensitive information or matter. U.S. citizenship is a requirement for security clearance applicants. All employees are subject to being randomly selected for drug testing without advance notification.

CNS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability.