ORNL Materials Testing Post-Master’s Research Associate
Description
The Materials Science and Technology Division is seeking a Post-Master’s Research Associate to support the Nuclear Materials Science and Technology (NMST) group with testing activities at the Irradiation Materials Examination and Testing (IMET) hot cell facilities, as well as the NMST group’s Fracture Mechanics Laboratory.
The NMST group at ORNL performs modeling, testing, and examination of the effects of irradiation on the performance of materials for various nuclear applications. This position will cover mechanical and potentially other physical or electronic testing at either the IMET test facility or the Fracture Mechanics lab. Primary testing functions of interest include indentation hardness, tensile and other strength properties, and fracture toughness evaluation from sub-zero to very high temperatures, typically under vacuum conditions. Other functions of importance include designing and implementing mechanical test capabilities, improving test instrument operations, and assisting irradiation experiments such as specimen preparation and radiological material transfers. The group is looking for a self-motivated individual that can take initiative to solve problems and lead small technical tasks. The individual must stay current with latest testing techniques and methods for in-cell testing and have a keen interest to improve quality and efficiency of testing. It is required that this individual can follow rigorous quality assurance procedures. The individual will be responsible for sample tracking and record keeping, equipment calibration, maintenance and replacement and ensuring required supplies are sufficient, maintained, ordered, and available.
Major Duties/Responsibilities
- Assist researchers while working independently in a fast-pace research and development environment
- Train under experienced technicians to become an independent lead technician on fracture toughness and mechanical testing
- Perform test functions at the hot cells
- Provide support with the preparation of nuclear material shipments
- Lead test and sample tracking activities for the program
- Work with the facilities manager to schedule test activities for the programs
- Develop and introduce new techniques as part of a team to improve the quality of hot cell testing, specifically hardness, fracture toughness and mechanical testing
- Be practical when solving problems
- Train students, postdocs, and visitors on techniques in the use of testing equipment
- Maintain accurate and complete records of sample receipt, preparation status (notes and images of specimen at various stages of handling) and distribution (specimen condition, data completed, and specimen shipment and/or storage)
- Work in radiological control areas for preparation of radiological specimens
- Complete special projects including the installation and setup of new equipment inside a hot cell environment and assist with irradiation vehicle assemblies or de-assemblies
- Design special fixtures for small specimen testing and handling inside a cell
- Maintain a safe workspace
- Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
- Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
Qualifications
- A master’s degree in mechanical engineering, materials science and engineering, or related field
- Past experience as a laboratory technician and/or working in a radiological area would be advantageous
- Continuation of education/training to maintain instruments and testing techniques
- Knowledge of operations and principles for indentation hardness, mechanical and fracture toughness equipment as required for materials testing is expected along with understanding relevant equipment parameters’ impact on specimen quality
- Experience with AutoCAD or SolidWorks software design tools and instrument software tools
Preferred:
- Ability to train students, postdocs, and visitors on techniques and the use of preparation equipment in a safe and effective manner
- Ability to work and interface with instrument suppliers
- Ability to effectively report back to peers and higher-level program managers and organization units
- Ability to demonstrate technical leadership skills
- Excellent planning, time management, and organizational skills
- Ability to effectively work with group members and peer technicians for successful specimen preparation
- Ability to adapt to new situations and problem solve
The ORNL Post-Master’s Research Associates Program is administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE).