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Associate Technician- Metallography

Oak Ridge National Laboratory
life insurance, parental leave, 401(k), retirement plan, relocation assistance
United States, Tennessee, Oak Ridge
1 Bethel Valley Road (Show on map)
Aug 12, 2025

Requisition Id15054

Overview:

We are seeking an associate technician to support the Metallography Laboratory. As a part of our team, you will be primarily responsible for data entry, sample preparation, post-process quality control, some post-process material characterization, and maintaining strict adherence to ORNL environmental, safety, health, and quality (ESH&Q) controls.

This position resides in the Nuclear Energy Materials Microanalysis (NEMM) group, Materials Science and Technology Division (MSTD), Physical Sciences Directorate (PSD), at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Support all sample preparation activities, which include sectioning, encapsulation, sanding, and fine to ultra-fine polishing using semi-automated polishing systems in the ORNL Metallography Laboratory.
  • Sectioning of various materials (using low and high-speed saws).
  • Utilizing characterization techniques such as high magnification optical microscopy.
  • Operation of a variety of application specific software platforms.
  • Maintain documentation of samples in sample database.
  • Polishing of a wide variety of materials and material structures.
  • Etching using specified chemical mixtures (e.g. strong acids, oxidizers, or bases)
  • Imaging samples using established optical microscopy techniques and software
  • Maintain lab equipment, facilities, and systems so that they are ESH&Q compliant.
  • Perform all work in a safe manner.
  • A high degree of precision completing activities such as measurements and mixing of chemical solutions.
  • Coordinating directly with ORNL staff to achieve the desired result, maintain a high standard of cleanliness in the laboratory, and respond cooperatively to questions or concerns raised by staff or colleagues.
  • Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

  • An associate's degree in mechanical engineering, material science, or a closely related field.
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience working in a metallography or similar laboratory

Preferred Qualifications:

  • A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, material science, or a closely related field
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience working in a metallography or similar laboratory
  • Interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team environment Experience working with chemicals
  • Ability to efficiently and effectively balance time to accomplish multiple tasks or assignments
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements:

Physical Requirements:

Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.

Visa Sponsorship:

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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.

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