Technical Professional - Polymer Characterization

Technical Professional - Polymer Characterization

We are seeking a Technical Professional in the area of sustainable manufacturing with expertise in managing polymer characterization and processing laboratory space as well as interest or experience in materials formulation and materials processing/manufacturing. As part of this role, the candidate will be tasked to lead the management, development, maintenance, and repair of a variety of characterization equipment as well as the management of project timelines, execution of project tasks, and reporting of research findings.

The ideal candidate should be comfortable working across interdisciplinary teams of people with multiple areas of expertise and designing experiments to answer specific research questions. The candidate will need to have familiarity with different types of materials including polymers and will need to be comfortable in chemical laboratory spaces. The candidate should be self-driven and have a vested interest in keeping equipment running and managing/prioritizing projects to meet deliverables.

The candidate will be expected to simultaneously execute multiple projects, contribute to development of new initiatives in their area, interact with ORNL staff, industry, and academic partners.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Operate and support characterization techniques such as DSC, FTIR, TGA, DMA, TMA, XRD, rheology, twin-screw extruders, and electron and optical microscopy
• Prioritizing multiple research projects at once to meet strategic goals and deliverables
• Serve as laboratory space manager to ensure safety and orderly operation of a research area
• Design and execute experiments to characterize new, innovative materials for a variety of properties
• Support team goals and work with other team members
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics

Basic Qualifications:

• BS in Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial and/or Systems Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering, Chemistry, Sustainability, or a related discipline.
• Minimum two years of relevant experience
• Demonstrated ability to work safely and effectively in a multidisciplinary R&D environment.
• Experience as a laboratory space manager or a laboratory safety officer
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate in English to an international scientific audience

Preferred Qualifications:

• MS in Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial and/or Systems Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering, Sustainability, or a related discipline.
• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative and frequently interacting teams of researchers
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment.

These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation. ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family.

Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience. Other benefits include the following:
Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.