Computational Scientist

About the Role

Join us as a Computational Scientist to support Idaho National Lab's partnership with DOE's Genesis Mission in a historic national initiative to build the world’s most powerful scientific AI platform. By integrating supercomputers, AI systems, and quantum technologies, Genesis aims to double the productivity and impact of American scientific research within a decade.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across DOE National Labs, academia, and industry to advance AI-driven scientific discovery.
• Develop, implement, and optimize AI models, workflows, and computational tools for research in energy, materials, quantum science, and national security.
• Leverage DOE’s high-performance computing infrastructure and unique datasets to accelerate R&D workflows.
• Participate in the Genesis Mission Consortium, contributing to working groups focused on AI model development, data integration, and cloud infrastructure.
• Provide technical leadership for national DOE programs.
• Execute research in assigned technical subject areas and provide imaginative, thorough, and practical solutions to complex computing problems.
• Articulate and advocate business cases in support of technical projects.
• Document work extensively, including authorship of technical reports, user’s manuals, and research papers for refereed journals and proceedings.
• Coordinate and execute project/program activities relative to work package scope, deliverables, and milestones.
• Accept input and coaching from mentors and provide constructive input to others while maintaining professional relationships under budget and deadline pressures.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in nuclear science, materials science, computational engineering, computational applied mechanics, computer science, engineering, physics, mathematics, or a similar degree.
• Level 1: 0 years of relevant experience.
• Level 2: 2 years of relevant experience or an advanced degree in a relevant field with 0 years of experience.
• Proficiency in C++, Python, and object-oriented programming languages.
• Experience with finite-element methods, advanced numerical methods for nonlinear analysis, and development of complex engineering analysis software.
• Skills in one or more of the following areas: h and p adaptation, parallel computing, non-linear solvers, pre-conditioning, discontinuous Galerkin methods.
• Knowledge of one or more of the following technical areas: computational science, modeling, simulation, high-performance computing, scientific software engineering, finite element methods, fluid mechanics, nuclear science (including nuclear physics, simulation of nuclear fuel behavior, stochastic and deterministic reactor physics, core design), computational material science, phase field methods, molecular dynamics, crystal plasticity, thermo-mechanics, nonlinear solid mechanics, structural dynamics, heat transfer, and multi-physics coupling.
• Knowledge of engineering software development processes and proficiency with related tools.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in theory and application of computational science principles.
• Must be either a US Citizen or a US Green Card holder due to export control restrictions.

Qualifications (Ideal Candidate)

• Advanced degree in nuclear science, materials science, computational engineering, computational applied mechanics, computer science, engineering, physics, mathematics, or a similar degree.
• Demonstrated experience in providing leadership, strategic and tactical planning, and effective execution of large, complex, and technically challenging programs requiring multidisciplinary integration.
• Relevant research accomplishments published in peer-reviewed scientific literature.
• Experience in the development of advanced mathematical software and software verification & validation.
• Demonstrated experience in applied mathematics, statistics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, or data science.
• Experience writing proposals.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and reach with hands and arms.
• Requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard, handle materials, and manipulate tools.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform essential functions and interact with people.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Schedule

9x80 schedule with every other Friday off, located out of our REC facility or on-site in our Salt Lake City facility.

Pay

• Level 1: $66,504 - $136,356
• Level 2: $79,344 - $162,732

Compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package

Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

About Us

Idaho National Laboratory (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.

• Mission: Discover, demonstrate, and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options, and critical infrastructure.
• Vision: Change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.