Nuclear Science & Engineering Division Director

Division Director – Nuclear Science and Engineering Division

We are seeking a motivated and capable leader to serve as Division Director of the Nuclear Science and Engineering Division orting to the Associate Lab Director of the Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate (FFESD), the Division Director will advance ORNL capabilities and interests in supporting the nation’s aspirations for nuclear energy development through advanced reactor design, simulation, code development, sensors, neutronics, thermal hydraulics, criticality safety, and nuclear data.

Develop and continually evolve the NSED strategy for advanced nuclear energy demonstration and deployments in collaboration with the FFESD ALD, peer division directors, and other ORNL organizations. Serve as the primary programmatic interface with DOE-NE offices to ensure consistent, effective communication on key matters. Advance scientific excellence through productivity, program impact, publications, intellectual property, and external engagement. Grow capabilities and staff expertise to support licensing and deployment objectives.

Review and approve staff proposals to align scope, schedule, and budget with strategy. Oversee workforce development, diversity, inclusion, and staff performance. Collaborate with management peers on strategic R&D missions for FFESD and the Laboratory. Provide line management including supervision of group leaders, budget and business planning, salary planning, recruitment, and employee relations. Maintain a safety‑focused culture with hazard identification and control processes.

Align workplace behaviors with core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

• Advanced technical degree in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field with 15‑20 years of proven experience.
• Evidence of prior successful leadership of R&D teams.
• Record of lead‑authored scientific publications.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Q clearance (requires U.S. citizenship).

• PhD in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field.
• Management experience at group or division level (or equivalent).
• Demonstrated skill in developing high‑performing teams with contributions from external collaborators.
• Hands‑on experience in research partnerships (participation or coordination).
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for broad stakeholder engagement.
• Self‑starter capable of working independently and prioritizing multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.

• Experience developing or coordinating DOE‑funded research programs or venture‑capital‑driven industries.
• Proven track record in establishing and executing technical partnerships with external participants.

• Visa sponsorship is not available. Position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DOE clearance.
• Position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require a pre‑placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

• Medical 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
• Employee Discounts

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT‑Battelle is an E‑Verify employer.