Geochemist and SIMS operator

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is seeking a qualified scientist to enhance our growing capability in secondary ion mass spectrometry and characterization of nuclear materials. Our current research challenges center on developing analytical approaches and instrumental methods to reduce detection limits, improve measurement accuracy and precision, and increase throughput. Both independently and through collaboration with project teams, the position will support a wide range of U.S. Government and private client work. In addition to our national security work, missions relating to environmental monitoring and restoration, as well as industrial technology development, are also of interest.

• The successful candidate will support both production and research projects. Some projects have highly specialized technical aspects; for these projects the incumbent will be provided detailed technical guidance and mentoring from senior staff
• The successful candidate will have a fundamental understanding of the physics of ion beams as they are used in analytical instrumentation, a broad understanding of geochemistry, chemistry and/or physics, and ability to exhibit excellent laboratory practices
• Candidate needs to have direct experience with dynamic magnetic sector SIMS instrumentation (f-series, CAMECA IMS-1280, or equivalent)
• Due to the multi-disciplinary nature of the work and team-based projects, effective written and oral communication, strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate are essential
• Candidates should be creative and capable of productive research, initially as part of inter-disciplinary team/s, and later independently. The selected individual will experience professional growth through excellent performance on projects via networking internally and externally to PNNL

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 2 years of experience or Master’s degree with 0-1 years of experience
• Direct experience with dynamic SIMS instrumentation (f-series, CAMECA IMS-1280, or equivalent) is desired

Preferred Qualifications

The candidate must be comfortable with the operation and troubleshooting of analytical instruments and high vacuum systems. Experience with elemental and isotopic analytical methods, sample preparation techniques, low-level radiological materials in clean environments, and an understanding of data processing and statistical analysis that supports robust QA/QC protocols is preferred.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Battelle Memorial Institute (BMI) at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and supports diversity in the workplace. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. All BMI staff must be able to demonstrate the legal right to work in the United States. BMI is an E-Verify employer. Learn more at jobs.pnnl.gov.

Other Information

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.

Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship
• Background Investigation: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter in accordance 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.
• Drug Testing: All Security Clearance (L or Q) positions will be considered by the Department of Energy to be Testing Designated Positions which means that they are subject to applicant, random, and for cause drug testing. In addition, applicants must be able to demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the requisite Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP).

Note: Applicants will be considered ineligible for security clearance processing by the U.S. Department of Energy until non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for 12 consecutive months can be demonstrated.