Senior Chemical Engineer

Idaho National Laboratory; Idaho Falls (ID); On-site; USD 114,000 - 281,000; Full time

Job summary

Idaho National Laboratory seeks a Senior Engineer to lead the research, development, and demonstration activities for hydrogen and chemical production at the Energy Technology Proving Ground in Idaho Falls. You will oversee scientific coordination across INL and with industry and federal partners, ensuring accurate results and regulatory compliance.

The role requires strong leadership, experience in testing and pilot facilities, and the ability to travel up to 20%.

Qualifications

• Requires advanced degree or Ph.D. in engineering, physics, or related field.
• Demonstrated experience with testing methodologies and equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Proven ability to manage and lead a team.

Responsibilities

• Oversee chemical and hydrogen production and demonstration facility experimental work.
• Develop and implement testing protocols and procedures for reliable results.
• Lead and mentor engineers and technicians; provide guidance and support.
• Collaborate with departments to design and execute testing plans for new products and technologies.
• Draft proposals and statements of work for additional testing work.
• Analyze test data, draft publications, and prepare detailed reports for stakeholders.
• Communicate with industry and federal sponsors to identify opportunities and gaps.
• Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Skills

Testing methodologies

Analytical skills

Team leadership

Written and verbal communication

Travel up to 20%

Education

Advanced degree (MS/PhD) in engineering/physics

Ph.D. in engineering/physics

Tools

MATLAB

Python

R

SQL

Job description

Job Description

The Integrated Energy Technologies Division is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Engineer to lead research, development and demonstration activities for hydrogen and chemical production at the Energy Technology Proving Ground. The Proving Ground covers the full spectrum of cutting‑edge integrated energy and materials RD&D — spanning the production, storage, and use of heat, electricity, hydrogen, and carbon with the aim of directly bridging the gap between early‑stage energy research and integrated market‑ready technology solutions. As a senior leader you will oversee the scientific coordination and alignment of different technologies. You will be responsible for coordinating the scientific vision of demonstration projects, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results, and coordinating with others across INL, industry and federal stakeholders. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee chemical and hydrogen production and demonstration facility experimental work, ensuring all active investigations are proceeding as desired.
• Develop and implement testing protocols and procedures to ensure accurate and reliable results.
• Lead and mentor a team of engineers and technicians, providing guidance and support as needed.
• Collaborate with other departments to design and execute testing plans for new products and technologies.
• Develop proposals and statements of work for additional testing work
• Analyze test data, draft publications, and prepare detailed reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Draft publications and external reports on test results
• Communicate with stakeholders across industry and federal sponsors to identify key technology opportunities and gaps.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety and regulatory standards.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in testing technologies.

Minimum Qualifications

• Level 4: Advanced degree and 6 years related experience or Ph.D. and 4 years related experience in engineering, physics, or a related field.
• Level 5: Advanced degree and 8 years related experience or Ph.D. and 6 years of related experience in engineering, physics, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of testing methodologies and equipment.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Proven ability to manage and lead a team.
• Experience with chemical synthesis (fuels, fertilizer etc.) and/or Electrochemical Systems
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to travel and work at INL site facilities up to 20%.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "Q" clearance, which requires US Citizenship.

Desired Experience And Skills

• 10+ years of experience in a testing or research environment, and 5+ years in project leadership.
• Experience with pilot plant scale testing facilities.
• Knowledge of current industry trends and advancements.
• Knowledge in relevant safety and regulatory standards (ASME, NFPA, NEC).
• Proficiency in relevant software and data analysis tools (MATLAB, R, Python, SQL or similar).
• Experience in coordinating with federal agencies including the Department of Energy

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, and work in an office and laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job‑related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Information

• The pay range for this position is: Level 4 ( $114,360 - $234,336 ) / Level 5 ( $137,076 - $281,196 ). At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.
• Multi‑Level: This is a multi‑level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.
• TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre‑employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

About Us

INL is a science‑based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self‑contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL Mission

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov .

Equal Employment Opportunity

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.

INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.