Post-Irradiation Examination (PIE) Lead Research Scientist

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Post-Irradiation Examination (PIE) Lead Research Scientist. Our team works a 4x10 schedule located at the Materials and Fuels Complex with every Friday off. The Nuclear Materials Performance (NMP) division performs post-irradiation examination (PIE) and advanced characterization of irradiated nuclear materials such as structural materials and fuels. For this position, most work activities will be performed in the Structural Properties Laboratory (formally called the Sample Preparation Laboratory). This is a newly constructed hot cell facility that focuses on PIE of structural materials.

The job will focus on mechanical testing as well as environmental testing of irradiated materials. The primary functions of this role involve operation of mechanical property measurement instruments, collection of data and its analysis, development and implementation of new techniques related to mechanical testing and environmental testing, finding funding opportunities, mentoring junior staff in research and lab activities, and support research activities in SPL. A further detailed list of responsibilities is described below.

This job involves working with a multi-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers.

Responsibilities:

• Operation of mechanical property measurement instruments and collection of data and its analysis, such as creep and creep crack growth rate testing.
• Support research activities associated with mechanical testing of irradiated materials, focusing on creep mechanisms, as well as environmental testing.
• Development and implementation of new mechanical property and environmental testing capabilities in SPL and other INL facilities.
• Collaborate with robotics team to develop methods to implement robotics for research applications associated with test equipment.
• Find funding opportunities for structural materials testing and other research areas.
• Mentoring junior staff and support other groups depending on position level.
• Interact with the microstructural characterization group to better understand radiation damage mechanisms and their effect on mechanical properties.
• Publish peer reviewed journal articles and/or provide PIE associated reports for customers.
• Work with hot cell engineers to develop tooling and modifications to hot cell equipment.
• Support other research and engineering activities throughout the NMP facilities.
• Adhere to INL policies and procedures.
• Completion of qualifications associated with position within 1 yr.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• Level 4: Master's degree in nuclear engineering, material science, mechanical engineering, or related technical discipline with 6+ years' experience or PhD and 4+ years' experience.
• Level 5: Master's degree in nuclear engineering, material science, mechanical engineering, or related technical discipline with 8+ years' experience or PhD and 6+ years' experience.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience with mechanical property characterization techniques such as creep testing or with environmental testing.
• Knowledge of radiation effects on microstructure and mechanical properties.
• Knowledge of industry or government processes and requirements.

Job Information:

• The pay range for this position is: Level 4 ($111,888 - $229,284) / Level 5 ($134,124 - $275,136). 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.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate job related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds or 1/3 of their body weight, whichever is less. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject 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 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.
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.

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