Operations Specialist III

Overview

PNNL’s Physical Sciences Facility (PSF) is part of the National Security Directorate (NSD). This Operations Specialist provides operational support to division leaders, team leads, space managers, and research staff. The role includes mentoring, space operations oversight, relocation of materials, and day‑to‑day support for PSF activities.

• Operate support functions for PSF staff, providing guidance on day‑to‑day operations.
• Mentor junior personnel and oversee space operations.
• Manage relocation of materials, equipment, laboratories, and staff.
• Disposition older materials and equipment, ensuring compliance with export, hazard, and safety regulations.
• Coordinate with Facilities & Infrastructure and bargaining unit staff during sensitive equipment movements.
• Identify and resolve operational issues for multiple project managers and technical teams.
• Work with Environment, Safety, Health, Quality, and Security experts to ensure controls such as permits and procedures are in place.
• Interact with Field Services Representatives, Radiation Protection Technicians, Transportation and Property staff to maintain a safe and secure environment.
• Identify needs, coordinate with Facilities & Infrastructure operations, research management, and workforce supervisors.
• Provide operational guidance to project managers and technical staff.

• Minimum Requirements: BS/BA and 5 years of relevant experience – or MS/MA or higher and 3 years of relevant experience.
• Preferred Qualifications: Demonstrated ability to operate in a politically sensitive environment and interact with senior leadership.
• Strong task management, relationship building, and customer service skills.
• Organizational ability to prioritize competing demands and engage stakeholders proactively.
• Experience supporting national security applications, including NNSA and other government programs.
• Initiative and proactive problem‑solving in complex project contexts.
• Working knowledge of PNNL operational and acquisition systems.
• Application of project management methods (scope, schedule, resources, risk).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to produce clear, concise reports.
• Leadership, collaboration, and teaming skills.

Work is conducted in a research laboratory environment where corrosive, toxic, flammable chemicals, radiological materials, and energized electrical equipment may be present. Potential exposures are minimized through facility controls, safety procedures, and required training and PPE.

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Federal background investigation (including 10 CFR 710, AppendixB) and eligibility for classified access.
• Pre‑employment and random drug testing for illegal substances, including prohibition of marijuana use within the 12months preceding the QNSP questionnaire.

PNNL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Laboratory welcomes applicants of all races, religions, colors, sexes, national origins, ages, disabilities, genetic information, protected veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations are provided for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans during the application process.