NDA Specialist

Location

Oak Ridge, TN

What You’ll Do

• Measure uranium and other radioactive isotopes using non‑destructive assay (NDA) techniques, including gamma‑ray spectroscopy and passive/active neutron counting, under the direction of the laboratory manager and senior staff.
• Perform NDA of uranium and other radioactive isotopes in multiple NDA labs.
• Calibrate, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation and equipment.
• Collect, reduce, evaluate, and peer‑review data; enter results into the laboratory information management system.
• Prepare reports and assist in procedural development and modification.
• Review and modernize existing procedures and develop new methods for analytical services.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with support organizations, project teams, production operations, and other stakeholders.
• Assist in standing up laboratories in the Uranium Processing Facility (UPF) by managing timelines for project deliverables.
• Ensure quality and compliance requirements are met.

What You Can Expect

• Meaningful work supporting missions vital to national and global security.
• Top‑notch, dedicated colleagues.
• Generous pay and benefits within a stable organization.
• Career advancement and professional development programs.
• Work‑life balance fostered through flexible work options and wellness initiatives.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physical science, engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience (typical experience 4–7 years) or Master’s degree in a related field with minimum 1 year of relevant experience (typical experience 4–7 years).
• Must meet the requirements of DOE O 426.2A (e.g., Baccalaureate in engineering or related scientific major, 2 years job‑related experience, and 1‑year nuclear experience; or an approved DOE O 426.2A alternative).

Preferred Job Requirements

• Experience in NDA theory and practical use of gamma‑ray and neutron‑based NDA measurement instrumentation and software.
• Strong organizational and analytical abilities, effective problem‑solving skills, and a capacity for continuous learning and development of innovative non‑destructive uranium measurement methods.
• Work‑related experience with nuclear material operations, nuclear production operations, and other processes within the Nuclear Weapons Complex.
• Knowledge of computer programming, especially with Canberra/Mirion APEX software systems and the Python language.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, including technical writing.
• High personal motivation, strong leadership, and ability to work under changing conditions to meet short deadlines.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, vision, and dental plans.
• Employer‑matched 401(k) savings plan.
• Disability coverage and education reimbursement.
• On‑site workout facilities and cafeterias offering healthy food options.
• Additional benefits that support a high quality of life.

Security Clearance

• Requires a Department of Energy Q clearance (or the ability to obtain and maintain one).
• May require entry into Material Access Areas (MAA) and participation in the Human Reliability Program (10 C.F.R. Part 712), including a DOE counter‑intelligence evaluation and possibly a polygraph.
• May be designated as a “designated position” under 10 C.F.R. Part 709, requiring a DOE counter‑intelligence evaluation and possibly a polygraph.
• U.S. citizenship is required for clearance eligibility.
• CNS is a drug‑free workplace; candidates must pass a pre‑placement physical, drug screening, and background investigation.