Nuclear Reactor Controller

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site fitness facilities

Medical and retirement plans

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory seeks a Nuclear Reactor Controller for HFIR to safely operate the reactor and support systems under limited supervision. This role combines reactor operation with field duties, requiring strict adherence to procedures and safety standards.

The successful candidate will maintain certification, monitor real-time plant parameters, perform refueling operations when needed, and work 12-hour rotating shifts.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years of nuclear experience (2 years may be nuclear/non-nuclear power plant experience).
• Must be able to work 12 hour rotating shifts.
• Completion of the U.S. Navy Nuclear Power Program (preferred).
• Requires ability to obtain and maintain a DOE clearance and WSAP requirements.

Responsibilities

• Obtain and maintain certification as a nuclear reactor controller (reactor operator).
• Follow DOE Order 422.1 and Conduct of Operations requirements.
• Maintain safe and efficient HFIR operation per procedures and regulations.
• Monitor plant parameters in real time and analyze trends.
• Perform field work supporting reactor operation including waste handling and equipment operations.
• Operate reactor, its support systems, and perform refueling/defueling tasks as needed.
• Act under high stress with quick, coordinated decisions.
• Uphold Safe Conduct of Research and raise safety concerns when necessary.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission aligned with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Skills

Nuclear experience

Shift work

Decision making under pressure

Safety awareness

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

Job description

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We are seeking a Nuclear Reactor Controller (Reactor Operator) for the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). Under limited supervision, this position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the HFIR in accordance with procedures and regulations, and maintenance of qualification through training.

A Nuclear Reactor Controller at the HFIR is a combination of all the naval nuclear ratings into one role; it is an appropriate position for all nuclear trained MMs, EMs, and ETs as well as personnel with commercial nuclear operations experience.

This position reports to a HFIR Shift Supervisor and resides in the HFIR Operations Section, Research Reactors Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Obtain and maintain certification as a nuclear reactor controller (reactor operator).
• Follow good operational practices and requirements as required by DOE Order 422.1, Conduct of Operations.
• Maintain safe and efficient operation of the HFIR in accordance with procedures and regulations.
• Monitor plant parameters on a real time basis for assigned stations, analyzing trends and plant conditions.
• Involves operation of the reactor, the support systems for the reactor, water sampling, disassembly and reassembly of reactor components, refueling and defueling operations, tours and log taking throughout the plant and in the control room.
• Accomplish field work to support reactor operation, including functions as a waste generator and packager, operation of cranes and mobile equipment, inventorying and stocking materials, and other activities such as radiological decontamination.
• Function under high stress conditions where immediate decision making is required, and rapid actions taken with seamless coordination with other team members.
• Abiding by the principles of Safe Conduct of Research including being personally responsible for ensuring safe operations by raising safety concerns, using a questioning attitude, considering hazards for every task, and never stop learning.
• Additional tasks as assigned by management.
• 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:

• HS diploma or equivalent
• A minimum of 3 years of nuclear experience (two years may be nuclear/non-nuclear power plant experience)
• Must be able to work 12 hour rotating shifts

Preferred Qualifications:

• Completion of the U.S. Navy Nuclear Power Program

Special Requirements:

• Physical Requirements: Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
• Export control: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.
• 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.

Benefits at ORNL:

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and 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 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, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available for certain positions.

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.

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.