Senior Instrument Design Engineer

We are seeking a Senior Instrument Design Engineer to focus on designing, deploying, and improving instruments for the neutron science community at ORNL’s High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) and the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS). This position resides in the Instrument Project Engineering Group in the Neutron Technologies Engineering Section, Neutron Technologies Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

About the role

As part of our engineering team, you will design, procure, and oversee installation and commissioning of new instruments and upgrades to existing instruments, including one-of-a-kind and first-of-a-kind components and systems. Typical instrument components include vacuum and/or pressure vessels, equipment positioning devices, personnel safety systems, neutron and biological shielding, and optical components.

You will collaborate with engineers, instrument scientists, scientific associates, operations and maintenance technicians, and other technical personnel to execute instrument projects. The role requires a strong general engineering foundation, technical contribution within your specialty, and the ability to assemble, direct, and work with other technical specialists.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering design and analysis of complex mechanical systems—from initial concept through final commissioning—for new instrument developments and major upgrades at SNS and HFIR
• Oversee fabrication and procurement of components and systems
• Plan and supervise validation testing
• Oversee installation of components and systems
• Direct work planning and hazard evaluation activities; serve as the responsible engineer of record for assigned scope
• Develop concepts to final detailed and documented designs for SNS and HFIR
• Provide technical direction to designers, engineers, and other technical staff; review deliverables to ensure engineering standards and customer requirements are met
• Support testing and development activities
• Lead multidisciplinary activities to ensure project requirements are met
• Produce accurate and concise technical reports and design documentation
• Prepare presentations for technical design reviews and advisory committees
• Participate in R&D activities and prototyping of proposed new equipment
• Produce and follow cost and schedule estimates
• Communicate technical status and performance to ORNL management
• Define project objectives and technical requirements; develop project execution plans; manage projects to scope, schedule, and budget
• Comply with ORNL environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements
• Maintain a strong commitment to ORNL values

Requirements

• BS in mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, civil engineering, engineering science, or a related discipline and a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience
• Experience in Computer Aided Design (CAD)
• Experience working within multidisciplinary technical teams
• Demonstrated success in managing and executing structured, technical projects

Qualifications

• MS in mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, civil engineering, engineering science, or a related discipline
• Experience with neutron scattering instruments or other large-scale scientific user facilities
• Experience mentoring early-career engineers or providing technical oversight on multidisciplinary project teams

Special Requirements

• Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions; a pre-hire physical will be required after offer
• Ability to access and work in industrial facility environments, including climbing stairs, navigating uneven surfaces, and crawling into tight areas
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• 401(k) Retirement Plan and Contributory Pension Plan
• Life insurance and disability benefits
• Generous vacation, holidays, and parental leave
• Legal insurance with identity theft protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness programs and educational assistance
• Employee discounts
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities
• Relocation assistance available