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Trace Element Analytical Chemist / Research Technologist 3

Los Alamos National Laboratory · Los Alamos, NM · 3 mo ago
AnalystFull-time

This position is open for external candidates only to apply.

About the Role

The Actinide Analytical Chemistry (C-AAC) group is seeking a motivated analytical chemist for a Research Technologist 3 position focused on trace element analysis. C-AAC provides expertise in chemical and radiochemical analysis of actinide materials with analyses ranging from assay of major components down to trace impurities. The successful candidate will join C-AAC's Elements Team to characterize plutonium and other actinide materials by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Responsibilities

  • Provide high quality analytical chemistry results for routine and non-routine samples
  • Work hands-on with alpha-emitting materials in glove box and open front hood
  • Perform analytical chemistry techniques: reagent preparation, sample handling, actinide separations
  • Operate lab equipment and instrumentation including ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS
  • Ensure equipment and instrumentation performance and reliability
  • Procure, assemble, validate, maintain, and troubleshoot analytical equipment and instrumentation
  • Develop and maintain authorizing documents to perform work safely and compliantly
  • Work to standard operating procedures in highly regulated environment

Requirements

  • Demonstrated expert knowledge and experience in trace element analysis using ICP-MS or ICP-OES instrumentation including routine data reduction
  • Demonstrated experience working in a production laboratory environment
  • Demonstrated experience in method development and/or installation of new ICP instrumentation
  • Demonstrated experience maintaining and troubleshooting ICP-MS or ICP-OES instrumentation
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently
  • Willingness and capability to perform hands-on operations with nuclear material
  • Ability to obtain a DOE Q clearance, which usually requires US citizenship

Qualifications

Position requires a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and 8 years related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. DOE Order 426.2A requires a High School Diploma.

Desired Qualifications

  • Degree in chemistry or relevant scientific field
  • Extensive hands-on ICP-OES or ICP-MS experience in a production environment (at least five years)
  • Experience in sample preparation including digestion and ion chromatography
  • Experience working in gloveboxes or atmosphere-controlled boxes
  • Experience working with radioactive materials and in nuclear facilities
  • Knowledge of practices for quality assurance/quality control in analytical chemistry
  • Demonstrated ability to follow formal standard operating procedures under conduct of operations
  • Demonstrated ability to work with and mentor a diverse team
  • Familiarity with LabWare or similar LIMS
  • Active Q clearance

Essential Job Functions

  • Sitting, standing, walking, use of both hands and arms, gripping with hands, applying torque with hands or arms, fine motor control

Work Environment

  • Work near sources of ionizing radiation and irritant chemicals requiring personal protective equipment including safety glasses, gloves, and (occasional) respirator
  • Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Schedule

  • This position may require extended coverage, which could involve working a shift/weekend schedule. Employees may be eligible for the shift differential pay when assigned by their manager. Shift/weekend assignments are at the discretion of the manager.
  • Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.

Benefits

  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Note to Applicants: Due to federal restrictions, citizens of the People's Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

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