Job Opening for Materials Engineer – Additive Mfg Researcher in Consolidated Nuclear Security (Oak Ridge, TN 37830)

The posting seeks a welding engineer with experience in process development for metal-based additive manufacturing technologies.

As a Development Researcher, the candidate will be responsible for conducting leading edge research and development activities with a specific application to manufacturing, production, or quality operations or similar national security applications. The position performs duties as a project lead, coordinating and preparing technical aspects of engineering projects from inception to completion including project reviews. The position conducts formal presentations to plant personnel and other interested parties. The candidate participates in the development, research, and/or design of new types of proposed improvements in production and formulation of broad programs and mandatory requirements. The candidate will serve as the liaison with representatives of the various design agencies, vendors, and contractors as required to ensure effective and necessary technical cooperation at all levels that result in the completion of assigned objectives.

Performs difficult and complex technical project assignments, analyzes impact of mission changes on assigned programs, designs and concepts. Recommends improvements and prepares technical specifications. Acts as a leader, advisor, or consultant as required in the design and application of products, processes, devices, and equipment with engineers, scientists, and other technical staff within the department and at other applicable locations as required for efficient and economical accomplishment of the Plant’s assigned mission.

Recommends improvements in procedures and work control packages, technology utilization and automation, and analyzes the impact of mission changes on design or engineering concepts of assigned programs.

Y-12 has a long history of uranium research and development. The current posting seeks expertise in the joining and additive manufacturing of uranium, uranium alloys, and their associated materials. The role includes evaluation, analysis, recordkeeping, procurement, working in a laboratory environment, testing of next generation equipment, as well as development of novel materials and manufacturing technologies. In addition to research and development activities, the job role includes interfacing with system and process engineers in the production areas of the plant to provide technical oversight and troubleshooting assistance for the various metallurgical processing capabilities to ensure that Nuclear Security Enterprise (NSE) mission milestones are met.
What You Can Expect
Meaningful work and unique opportunities to support missions vital to national and global security
Top-notch, dedicated colleagues
Generous pay and benefits with a stable organization
Career advancement and professional development programs
Work-life balance fostered through flexible work options and wellness initiatives
Minimum Job Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in engineering/physical science discipline with a minimum 3.0/4.0 cumulative GPA and 4 years of relevant experience
OR Master’s degree in engineering/physical science discipline with a minimum 3.3/4.0 cumulative GPA and 2 years of relevant experience
OR PhD in engineering/physical science discipline with a minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA
There is a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) requirement up to 4 years post-graduation at time of offer and confirmed by transcript. Beyond four years from graduation, engineering experience will supersede GPA as a requirement for hire
In addition, the applicant must meet the requirements of DOE O 426.2 (i.e., Baccalaureate in engineering or related science, 2 years job-related and at least 1 year nuclear experience, or a DOE O 426.2 alternative). DOE 426.2 experience requirements can be satisfied following employment. In the interim, newly hired personnel will not be assigned duties that could impact the safety basis of nuclear facilities. (Ref. DOE O 426.2)
Preferred Job Requirements

Minimum degree level of Bachelor of Science in Welding or Materials Science Engineering from an Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited program in the United States or designated equivalents from Canada or Mexico, the Washington Accord, or the list of substantially equivalent as documented by ABET.

Technical knowledge in technical principles, theories, and concepts of engineering systems related to material, design, analysis, testing, qualification, and engineering application of computersAbility to clearly and effectively communicate through oral and written word, read and interpret drawings and specifications, and convert the criteria into detailed written proceduresAbility to exercise initiative, independent judgment, and discretion under limited supervision; develop, manage, and report planned cost and scheduled work; and develop a plan for recovery in order to successfully achieve overall objectivesExperience with various joining techniques such as Gas Tungsten Arc (GTAW), Gas Metal Arc (GMAW), Laser welding, Friction Stir welding, and Electron Beam welding is desired. Relevant experience with other joining techniques such as induction brazing, soldering, and resistance welding is also preferredFirm grasp of metallurgical principles related to material joining such solidification behavior, heat flow, cooling rate, and structure of fusion weldsExperience with process development and characterization of additively manufactured componentsAbility/desire to conduct hands-on work in a laboratory setting

Notes
The minimum education and experience for the lowest career level in the job posting range are listed under Minimum Job Requirements. Successful candidates hired into a higher career level than the minimum in the range must meet the requirements listed in the job leveling charts for the career level into which they are being hired.
If a range of Career Levels is posted, i.e., Senior Associate to Senior Specialist, internal applicants already in one of the Career Levels would come across at their current Career Level. Internal applicants currently in a lower level Career Level would move to the lowest posted Career Level, and internal applicants in higher Career Levels may be considered, on an exception basis, to come across laterally based on the applicant’s education and experience, and the scope of work being performed in the role.
Requires a Q clearance; however all qualified candidates will be considered regardless of their current clearance status. The ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q clearance is required.
Position may require entry into Materials Access Areas (MAA) and participation in the Human Reliability Program (HRP). If HRP is required, candidate must complete a counterintelligence-scope polygraph, pursuant to 10CFR 709. Medical requirements may apply.
CNS is a drug-free workplace. Candidates accepting a job offer will be required to pass a pre-placement physical, drug screening and background investigation. As an employee, you may be required to receive and maintain a security clearance from the United States Department of Energy in order to meet eligibility requirements for access to sensitive information or matter. U.S. citizenship is a requirement for security clearance applicants. All employees are subject to being randomly selected for drug testing without advance notification.
CNS is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, disability or veteran status.