Nuclear Systems Performance & Integration Lead

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 170,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation Assistance

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a visionary Group Leader for the Nuclear Systems Performance and Integration (NSPI) Group. Lead ~10–12 researchers, shape a diverse R&D portfolio, and advance reactor performance, modernization, and energy-system integration.

Responsibilities include strategic leadership across reactor thermal hydraulics, plant performance, and digital-twin driven analytics, with a focus on predictive modeling and high-impact outcomes.

Qualifications

• PhD with 6+ years leading R&D teams.
• BS/MS/PhD in mathematics, computational science, nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering or related field.
• Proven leadership of R&D teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead research initiatives to improve reactor performance and modernization.
• Provide strategic and technical leadership for multidisciplinary R&D portfolio.
• Advance engineering modeling tools like CTF, VERA, SAM, TRACE, TRANSFORM, CFD.
• Promote digital twins, AI/ML, data analytics, and uncertainty quantification.
• Develop and execute a sustainable research portfolio aligned with core strengths.
• Set performance expectations and support career development.
• Supervise NSPI group staff and hire as needed.

Job description

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) seeks a visionary Group Leader for the Nuclear Systems Performance and Integration (NSPI) Group. Lead ~10–12 researchers, shape a diverse R&D portfolio, and advance reactor performance, modernization, and energy-system integration.

Responsibilities include strategic leadership across reactor thermal hydraulics, plant performance, and digital-twin driven analytics, with a focus on predictive modeling and high-impact outcomes.