Cooling Systems Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a Cooling Systems Engineer to provide technical engineering oversight of cooling systems supporting the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) and High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). This position resides in the Cooling Systems Group in the Site Services Group, Research Accelerator Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Responsibilities

• Provide systems-level engineering support on piping specification, material selection, heat exchanger thermal sizing, and pump selection, translating decisions into clear direction for designers and technicians.
• Perform hydraulic and CFD analysis to evaluate system performance, support design changes, and guide equipment selection.
• Evaluate operational data from facility monitoring software to identify performance trends and recommend improvements.
• Review cooling system components — piping, pumps, water treatment — and provide engineering support for design changes per established procedures.
• Monitor cooling systems operations and direct qualified operators to adjust parameters to meet SNS production goals; escalate issues to the Group Leader or Senior Operator as needed.
• Be willing to learn new skills and train others.
• Support design change implementation and routine maintenance coordination, with occasional off-hours or weekend coverage for 24/7 facilities.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, 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.

Requirements

• BS in mechanical engineering or a related field and a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
• Ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge; Real ID compliant identification required; must obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card per HSPD-12 and DOE Order 473.1A, including a favorable Tier 1 background check (including declaration of illegal drug activities).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing or operating industrial water or cooling systems, including pumps, valves, heat exchangers, and piping.
• Experience with AFT Fathom fluid dynamic software.
• Knowledge of Affinity Laws and their application to pump and fan system design.

Benefits

• Competitive pay and benefits programs.
• Medical and retirement plans.
• Flexible work hours.
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities.
• 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, Employee Discounts.
• Relocation Assistance available.