Plant Operator

Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory; City of Batavia (NY); On-site; USD 38,986 - 47,540; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Paid time off

Retirement benefits

Onsite daycare

Job summary

The Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia is looking for a Cryogenic Operator to support active particle accelerators and future high-energy machines. Key responsibilities include operating helium refrigerators, maintaining cryogenic equipment, and assisting with mechanical installations.

Applicants should have a high school diploma along with extensive relevant experience, and be able to work within a team in a demanding environment. The position offers comprehensive benefits like medical, dental, and life insurance.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of extensive related experience or 3+ years at a DOE laboratory.
• Self-motivated and eager to learn.
• Ability to work with a team on operational and maintenance activities.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the helium refrigerator and associated test stands.
• Document work performed and construct components.
• Support measurement and test activities in cryogenic operations.

Skills

Mechanical drawing interpretation

Team collaboration

Use of hand tools

Cryogenics knowledge

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or technical certificate

Tools

Cranes

Forklifts

Scissor lifts

Job description

Pay Range

The expected hiring range for this position is: $28.30-$34.51. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be based on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, qualifications of the candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. This position is not eligible for relocation assistance, referral bonus program, or sponsorship assistance.

About the Role

The APS/TD Cryogenics Operations Group supports active particle accelerators and the development of future high‑energy physics machines. The group manages six cryogenic test stands and supports two major accelerator technologies: magnets (conventional and superconducting) and superconducting radio frequency cavities for use at Fermilab and in collaborations worldwide. The successful candidate will work as a cryogenic operator in the Magnet Test Facility (MTF) and the Vertical Cavity Test Facility (VCTF) and will contribute to the operation, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of cryogenic equipment and related mechanical systems.

Day‑to‑Day Responsibilities

You will operate and maintain the helium refrigerator and associated test stands, assemble and install or remove mechanical devices, document work performed, construct components, and assemble experimental and test support equipment. You will also support measurement and test activities and cryogenic operations in Industrial Building1.

Skills and Attributes

• HS degree (or technical certificate or equivalent) with 5+years of extensive related experience, or 3+years at a DOE laboratory or in a task of strategic importance to the Lab’s mission.
• Self‑motivated, eager to learn, and able to read and interpret mechanical drawings, flow schematics, and manuals.
• Ability to work with a team of technicians and engineers on operational and maintenance activities for cryogenic systems and magnet testing.
• Willingness to work overtime and weekends as required, including short‑notice response to operational and emergency issues.
• Experience with hand tools and rigging equipment such as cranes, forklifts, and scissor lifts.
• Good oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Knowledge of cryogenics and the refrigeration process is desirable.

Physical, Health, and Safety Requirements

• Lift up to 50lb; work at heights, on stairs, ladders, and for up to 4h per day.
• Perform repetitive motion, visual demand, and mental concentration tasks.
• Occasional work outdoors, in hot environments, and near vibrating equipment.
• Operate cars and light trucks legally; work mandatory overtime, rotating shift, and on‑call.
• May be exposed to high voltage, oxygen deficiency hazard, radiation, chemicals, solvents, epoxies, fumes, pesticides, welding, and combustion.
• Must use specified personal protective equipment including eye/face, foot, hand, hearing protection, and respirators.

Work Arrangement

This is an onsite role based at our Batavia office. The work arrangement may change based on business needs.

Benefits & Perks

• Medical, dental, vision, and flexible spending account coverage
• Paid time off
• Life insurance
• Short and long‑term disability insurance
• Retirement benefits
• Onsite day care

Equal Opportunity Statement

Fermilab is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected category.

Accommodation

Please contact [e-mail] to request accommodations for completing the application process.