ResponsibilitiesThe Advanced Energy Systems group at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is seeking a Process Development Engineer to contribute to the creation and demonstration of innovative solutions to problems of national significance in energy, and national security. The group has a long history of developing new processing solutions for the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Defense and industrial clients. The ideal candidate is a well-organized, self-starter with strong attention to detail, particularly in the design and operation of high-hazard systems.
The position responsibilities include the following:
- Supports the team in the areas of advanced process development; specifically in separations and chemical processing related to isotopic separations. Building a strong technical reputation both inside and outside PNNL through publications, participation in national and international conferences, and other contributions.
- Conducts hands-on chemical syntheses and materials testing for novel chemical conversions and/or separation techniques.
- Works with broader engineering teams to develop test plans that ensure collection of the necessary data to demonstrate large-scale viability.
- Provides technical contributions through problem-solving, innovation, and creativity, including the generation of ideas that are marketable and/or patentable.
- Able to work independently, including planning and executing work scope, completing deliverables on time and within budget, while maintaining safety as a priority.
- Proactive in the research community, stays knowledgeable of research advancements in science and industry, and maintains skills consistent with the state of the art.
- Prepares and presents technical reports.
- Delivers on assigned project tasks and meets project deliverables on time and within budget.
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:
- BS/BA and 2 years of relevant experience -OR-
- MS/MA -OR-
- PhD
Preferred Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering or equivalent.
- Already holds a U.S. security clearance.
- Extensive knowledge of the nuclear fuel cycle - front and back ends.
- Hands on experience working in radiological areas - fume hoods, benchtops, and glove boxes.
- Experience with analytical techniques such as ultrasonics, mass spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, etc.
- Chemistry experience, especially in radioisotope and stable isotope preparation and separations.
- Experience working with a diverse set of government and/or industry teams on complex and/or high-risk projects.
- Ability to contribute to the development of competitive research proposals for government and private clients.
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to clearly communicate research goals, parameters, objectives and outcomes.
- Demonstrated excellence in technical writing, ideally supported by peer-reviewed publications, and experience contributing to competitive research proposals for government and private clients.
- The ideal candidate will be a well-organized, self-starter, with strong attention to detail.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as effective time management skills, are essential for balancing activities across multiple concurrent projects.
Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment- Laboratory work will include assembly and operation of equipment in an industrial laboratory setting, involving radioactive, flammable and/or toxic materials.
Additional InformationThis position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.
A security clearance background investigation includes review of your employment, education, financial, and criminal history, as well as interviews with you and your personal references, neighbors, and co-workers to determine trustworthiness, reliability, and loyalty to the United States. The investigation also examines your foreign connections, drug and alcohol use, foreign influence, and overall conduct.
