Senior Technician- Electron Microscopy

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site fitness

Flexible work hours

Employee discounts

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, TN seeks a Senior Technician to prepare electrochemical device samples for electron microscopy, fabricate electron-transparent cross sections by ultramicrotomy, and use focused ion beam milling for characterization by STEM and SEM.

You will perform routine SEM imaging and EDS analysis, analyze data with standard software, and contribute to developing epoxy-free ultramicrotomy workflows while upholding ORNL values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety,

Qualifications

• As degree with 7+ years of relevant experience in sample prep or electron microscopy.
• Experience with TEM/SEM sample prep and routine microscopy analyses.
• Ability to develop workflows and operate in a fast-paced research setting.

Responsibilities

• Mount powder samples on TEM grids using drop-casting techniques.
• Prepare electron-transparent cross sections with ultramicrotomy for MEM and TEM.
• Use FIB for lift-out and cross-sectional imaging.
• Perform SEM imaging and EDS analysis.
• Conduct basic data analysis using microscopy software.
• Contribute to epoxy-free ultramicrotomy workflow development.
• Align work with ORNL values and promote a respectful workplace.

Skills

Sample preparation

Electron microscopy

Data analysis

Education

AS degree in related discipline

Tools

Diamond-knife ultramicrotomy

Focused ion beam milling

Scanning electron microscopy

EDS analysis

Job description

Requisition Id17103

Level: TN04

Overview:

We are seeking a Senior Technician who will focus on sample preparation of electrochemical devices for analysis by electron microscopy. The candidate will prepare electron transparent cross sections using diamond-knife ultramicrotomy and focused ion beam milling for characterization by scanning transmission electron microscopy, while also providing routine analysis by scanning electron microscopy. This position resides in the Applied Microanalysis & Thermophysics Group of the Materials Analysis & Interface Science Section, Materials Science and Technology Division, Physical Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Mount powder samples on TEM grids using conventional drop-casting techniques
• Prepare electron-transparent cross sections of membrane electrode assemblies using room-temperature diamond-knife ultramicrotomy
• Utilize focused ion beam techniques for sample preparation (lift-out technique) and cross-sectional imaging
• Perform routine scanning electron microscopy imaging and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis
• Complete basic data analysis using commercial electron microscopy software
• Assist in developing novel workflows for epoxy-free ultramicrotomy sectioning
• 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:

• AS degree in related discipline and a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience
• Prior experience in sample preparation and/or electron microscopy techniques

Preferred Qualifications:

• A proven ability to work safely in accordance with ES&H standards and procedures
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

Special Requirements:

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

• For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.
  To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well‑being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on‑site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added 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, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

Benefits:

• ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well‑being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on‑site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added 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, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

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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.