Section Head - Vehicle and Mobility Systems Research
Listed on 2026-02-21
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Engineering
Environmental Engineer, Research Scientist, Data Science Manager
Section Head - Vehicle and Mobility Systems Research
We are seekinga scientist/engineer/analystto lead world class capabilities for energy science and technology associated with the ORNL and DOE missions. Selection will be based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and education.
The Vehicle and Mobility Systems Research Section Head within the Buildings and Transportation Science Division (BTSD) will be responsible for leading a team of researchers focused on analysis, simulations, device design, system integration, and experimental evaluations of components, vehicles, and transportation networks to accelerate the development of decision science tools, connected and automated vehicles, intelligent transportation systems, and vehicle drive trains.
The section consists of four groups:
- Applied Research for Mobility Systems
- Electric Drives Research
- Transportation Analytics and Decision Science
- Vehicle Power Electronics Research
The R&D Section Head works closely with the Division Director, section Group Leaders, the Transportation Program Director, and other directorate leadership to:
- Establish and implement the science and technology directions for the section;
- Support the Group Leaders to ensure their success and the success of the R&D groups as world-recognized leaders in their fields;
- Collaborate to maintain cutting-edge research facilities in ORNL’s National Transportation Research Center (NTRC);
- Identify links to current and future funding opportunities and R&D programs;
- Lead proposals and other business development opportunities;
- Mentor section staff in their career development;
- Demonstrate proper environment, safety, health, quality, and security practices;
- Ensure an inclusive work environment where every employee feels safe, heard and appreciated—a workplace that sets an example for the broader community.
Research:
We seek a scientist/engineer/analyst who has significantly advanced knowledge and/or technology in their respective field. You will initiate, lead, and deliver R&D programs and initiatives on an ongoing basis.
Leadership:- Work closely with the Division Director and Group Leaders within the section to develop a vision and implement a strategy to pursue world-leading science and technology directions for the section
- Demonstrate cross-functional team leadership.
- Support Division Director in the operations of the division and represent Director when Director is not available.
- Work with section Group Leaders to establish, communicate, and measure critical metrics for success and impact.
- Actively contribute to shaping the division’s, directorate’s, and laboratory’s research plans and investments.
- Build strong teams by collaborating across ORNL and securing external expertise when needed.
- Collaborate with division and directorate staff and support organizations to maintain cutting-edge research facilities in ORNL’s NTRC.
- Leverage other ORNL facilities and resources when developing new projects.
- Work with the Group Leaders and the Division Director to assess and calibrate individual staff performance across the section; evaluate progress regularly, provide feedback, and address performance issues in a timely manner.
- Develop and implement Succession Planning with input from Group Leaders for all critical positions in the section.
- Ensure groups are recruiting and hiring from a diverse pool of top candidates who are committed to world-class research and aspire to be the best in their field.
- Approve job offers.
- Drive staff promotions and development.
- Address in a timely manner all concerns expressed by staff and any disciplinary actions.
- Lead by example, using the principles in ORNL’s “Research Code of Conduct” as a guide for proposing, performing, and communicating research and in dealing with others.
- Employ best practices, such as holding regular meetings, being visible in the workplace, monitoring budgets, acknowledging sponsors, and adhering to ORNL business systems requirements.
- Coach and mentor staff regarding Battelle’s “Safe Conduct of Research” principles and ensure all work is carried out safely, securely, and in compliance with ORNL policies, standards, and…
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