Hot Cells Operations Technician

Requisition Id 15544

Overview:

The Isotope Processing and Manufacturing Division (IPMD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is seeking a Hot Cell Operations Technician to support operations and isotope production missions at building 3047. The primary responsibility of the Technician is to ensure that all research and operations work is completed in a safe and compliant manner to meet established program goals within time and resource restrictions. This is accomplished by assisting the 3047 Operations Task Leader and ensuring that all work is performed in accordance with applicable Nonreactor Nuclear Facilities Division (NNFD) and IPMD division work control, change control, procurement, fabrication, and testing requirements.

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.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Obtain qualification as a Hot Cell Operations Technician in accordance with DOE Order 426.2, Personnel Selection, Qualification, and Training Requirements for DOE Facilities.
• Provide support to research and development, testing, and field application of equipment and research and development of processes for combining/separating chemicals, compounds, and related products and materials using principles and technology of chemistry, physics, mathematics, engineering and related sciences.
• Assist IPMD supervision in completing the assigned tasks and responsibilities.
• Assist with radioactive material waste handling, tracking, and disposal
• Assist in identifying potential problems, recognizing unexpected results, and troubleshooting some of the more complex operational problems.
• Use tele-manipulators and specialized hot cell processing equipment.
• Prepare clear and accurate documentation (check sheets, data sheets, logs, forms) for any work done.
• Keep work areas in a safe, clear, and orderly condition.
• Complete chemical processing operations including dissolution, separation, purification, recovery, and preparation of radioisotopes to support R&D and production efforts.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the IPMD managers/supervisors.
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
• 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 a technical field or an equivalent combination of education and experience in an industry with related technical training.
• This position requires Rad Worker II training (trained in-house after hire).
• A proven ability to work safely in accordance with ES&H standards and procedures.
• The ability to perform tedious tasks requiring extensive manual dexterity and eye/hand coordination.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to work as an active and contributing team member.
• Ability to manage time and work independently with minimum oversight and accomplish multiple tasks in a complex environment with attention to detail and thoroughness.
• 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.
• Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Excellent organizational skills.

Special Requirements:

• Physical Requirements: Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required for external candidates after offer.
• L clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance from the Department of Energy. However, all qualified applicants will be considered regardless of their current clearance status. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.
• Visa sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About the Isotope Science and Engineering Directorate (ISED):

Established in 2020, the Isotope Science and Engineering Directorate is strengthening Oak Ridge National Laboratory's leadership in isotope production and enrichment technology innovation. ISED is guiding the Lab's pursuit of the fundamental science and technology that broadens the application of isotopes for energy, environmental, medical, and national security purposes. These efforts are made possible through the High Flux Isotope Reactor, the Radiochemical Engineering Development Center, ORNL's other nuclear facilities, and an assemblage of world-leading scientists and engineers. Please visit for more information about ISED.

Benefits at ORNL:

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.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email:

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.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email

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.