Scientific Associate II Job Details | Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Scientific Associate II to support cutting-edge research at a renowned national laboratory. This role involves providing technical expertise, managing instrument operations, and assisting researchers from around the globe in utilizing advanced neutron scattering techniques. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, demonstrating strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to safety and excellence. With opportunities for professional growth and collaboration on groundbreaking projects, this position is perfect for those eager to make a significant impact in the field of materials science.

Benefits

Medical and retirement plans

Flexible work hours

On-site fitness facilities

Employee discounts

Educational assistance

Wellness programs

Generous vacation and holidays

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in scientific support roles.
• Hands-on experience with technical equipment and systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide direction to teams and support scientific staff in research.
• Oversee instrument operations and ensure reliable operation.

Skills

Technical support

Project management

Instrumentation control systems

Troubleshooting

Communication skills

Sample preparation

Education

BS degree in chemistry, materials engineering, or physics

MS degree or PhD in a relevant field

Tools

CAD software

Python

Job description

Overview:

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is the largest US Department of Energy (DOE) science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver ground-breaking solutions to compelling problems in energy and security! We are seeking a Scientific Associate II who will support the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) Science Support Group 1 in the Neutron Scattering Division (NSD), Neutron Sciences Directorate (NScD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to serve VULCAN - the Engineering Materials Diffractometer in operation at SNS.

The successful candidate will provide technical support and leadership to the scientific staff and user community, while serving as the primary point of contact for operations support staff. VULCAN, a high-flux time of flight neutron scattering diffractometer, provides rapid volumetric mapping with a sampling volume of 2-600 mm3 and a measurement time of minutes for common engineering materials.

As part of the VULCAN instrument team, you'll support researchers from all over the world through effective instrument operation and troubleshooting, with opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking scientific and engineering research utilizing neutron scattering.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

1. Provide direction to craft and technical teams, supporting staff scientists and user groups in completing the experimental research program.
2. Contribute to project management and systems engineering for the instrument.
3. Develop system requirements, test plans, and operations documentation.
4. Assist in assembly, installation, and testing of instrument components.
5. Analyze experimental hazards and implement mitigating actions.
6. Oversee general instrument operations and collaborate with users on logistics and configurations.
7. Respond to troubleshooting needs, including after-hours or weekends.
8. Provide technical expertise on instrument capabilities and ensure reliable operation of dedicated sample environments.
9. Participate in developing and commissioning new instrument capabilities.
10. Ensure proposals have necessary science, safety, and equipment approvals.
11. Maintain documentation and train users on instrument operation and safety.
12. Assist users with sample preparation and testing.
13. Manage instrument maintenance, including sample environment and consumable inventories.
14. Coordinate sample return/disposal with sample management staff.
15. Prepare the instrument for operating cycles and coordinate preventive maintenance.
16. Maintain instrument documentation and collaborate with public relations for exposure.
17. 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.
18. As a member of the ORNL scientific community, you will be expected to commit to ORNL's Research Code of Conduct.

Basic Qualifications:

1. BS degree in chemistry, materials engineering, physics, or related field with at least 2 years of proven experience.
2. General lab experience with sample processing and preparation.
3. Experience with the operation of computer-based instrumentation control systems.
4. Experience performing hands-on work to diagnose and debug technical equipment and systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. MS degree or PhD in a relevant field of study.
2. Experience with CAD software.
3. Experience with sample environment systems (such as mechanical testing, high and low temperature, gas absorption, etc.) and material characteristics in these extreme conditions.
4. Experience with Python or other scripted programming languages.
5. Comprehension of basic thermal neutron scattering instrument techniques and technologies.
6. Basic understanding of typical data acquisition, reduction, and analysis concepts.
7. Proven ability to respond to emergent situations and apply sound judgment in resolving them.
8. Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to constantly evolving needs.
9. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
10. Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams.

Special Requirements:

1. Periods of moderate overtime will be required. You will need to be willing to work outside the normal work schedule, including occasional weekends, with little or no notice.
2. This role may include limited travel opportunities.

Physical Requirements:

1. Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
2. Ability to perform tasks which are moderately physically demanding, such as climbing stairs and ladders, safely navigating crowded facilities while pushing or carrying various types of equipment, and occasionally lifting items weighing up to 30 pounds.
3. In this role you will be required to certify for hoist and rigging operation. This certification will require a pre-hire/yearly physical medical exam.

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.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: [e-mail]

#LI-DC1

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.