Mass Spectrometry Chemist - Associate Staff Member

22h22 hours ago

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, US · Full-time · $85,000 – $115,000

About this role

We are seeking a Chemist / Associate Technical Staff Member involved in the performance of a full range of mass spectrometry methods and analyses on radiological samples. This position supports ORNL projects including environmental stewardship programs, research for nuclear fuel cycles, and chemical operations for radioisotope production and purification. It resides in the Nuclear Analytical Chemistry Section’s Radioactive Materials Analytical Laboratory Group in the Chemical Sciences Division, Physical Sciences Directorate.

The role involves preparing and analyzing samples to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Responsibilities include developing and optimizing analytical methods for trace element and isotope ratio analysis, and maintaining ICP-MS instruments for peak performance. The successful candidate interprets and reports analytical data while following strict safety and radiological protocols.

Work occurs in C-zoned laboratories, radiochemical hoods, and gloveboxes with multidisciplinary teams. Additional duties encompass troubleshooting instrument performance, documenting experimental procedures, and ensuring adherence to guidelines like ISO 17025:2017, FDA, NRC, and customer standards. All activities prioritize environment, safety, health, and quality requirements.

This position offers opportunities at the forefront of nuclear and radiopharmaceutical research. Contribute to advancements in analytical chemistry and quality control while leading by ORNL’s Research Code of Conduct. Align behaviors with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service in a respectful workplace.

Requirements

Experience performing mass spectrometry analyses on radiological samples
Knowledge of sample preparation and chemical separations for radiochemical determinations
Proficiency in developing and optimizing methods for trace element and isotope ratio analysis
Ability to maintain and troubleshoot ICP-MS instruments
Familiarity with handling radioactive materials in radiological facilities
Training qualifications as a radiation worker and respirator wearer
Skill in interpreting analytical data and adhering to ISO 17025:2017, FDA, NRC standards
Competence in data reporting, analytical calculations, and sample management using PCs

Responsibilities

Perform sample preparations and chemical separations for radiochemical determinations of nuclear materials
Perform a full range of mass spectrometry methods and analyses on radiological samples
Independently perform detailed analytical operations in C-zoned laboratories and radiochemical hoods and gloveboxes
Develop, modify, and refine operational and experimental procedures through laboratory tests
Maintain ICP-MS instruments for peak performance and troubleshoot instrument issues
Obtain and maintain ORNL training requirements for radiation workers including respirator wearer qualification
Utilize Windows-based personal computers for instrumentation operation, data reporting, analytical calculations, and sample management
Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, quality program requirements and ORNL ESH&Q policies

Benefits

Work on cutting-edge projects in nuclear fuel cycles and radioisotope production
Access to advanced facilities including radiochemical hoods and gloveboxes
Contribution to environmental stewardship and radiopharmaceutical research advancements