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Group Leader - HFIR Cold Source Operations

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)
Jun 22, 2026

Requisition Id16593

Overview:

We are seeking a Cold Source Operations Group Lead to assume responsibility for the operations, testing and transient response associated with the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) Cold Source Facility. This position reports to the HFIR Operations Manager, interacts with personnel at all levels within the Research Reactors Division, and may provide direction to engineers, technicians, and craft personnel. The role resides in the HFIR Operations Section, Research Reactors Division,Neutron Sciences DirectorateatOak Ridge National Laboratory(ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Technical Leadership:
    • Oversee shift operations in accordance with plant procedures, HFIR Technical Safety Requirements, and Cold Source Safety Authorization Basis.
    • Oversee the safe performance of hydrogen addition and venting operations and takes proper actions in the event of an incident.
    • Ensure plant operational deficiencies are identified and corrective action is initiated.
    • Perform actions necessary to mitigate the consequences of Cold Source transients.
    • Develop, review, and approve Cold Source plant operating and emergency response procedures.
    • Maintain/obtain qualification as a Cold Source Staff Member
    • Assist in the development of appropriate work steps and work controls associated with the Cold Source upgrades.
  • Maintain Work Control and Operational Security:
    • Serve as the single point of contact for authorizing, directing and monitoring Cold Source activities.
    • Authorize start of work affecting Cold Source equipment and systems.
    • Authorize the return of equipment to service following maintenance, testing or operational activities.
    • Authorize the removal of equipment from service for maintenance, testing or operational activities.
    • Ensure quarterly and annual audits for various procedures/programs are completed.
    • Ensure adequate stock of operational supplies and gases are maintained to support operational needs.
  • Safety, Compliance, and Technical Governance:
    • Ensure compliance with all applicable nuclear facility, cryogenic, and industrial safety standards
    • Ensure Cold Source activities are conducted in accordance with appropriate tagging, safety, configuration control practices and Conduct of Operations per ADM-0001.
    • Acts as Issuing Authority in the Lockout/Tagout process per ADM-0200.
    • Exercise "Stop Work" authority within the Cold Source facility for practices that could jeopardize safety
    • Applicable environmental, safety, and health directives are complied with for all cold source operation activities.
  • Workforce Development and Mentoring:
    • Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of professional values and ethics.
    • Contribute to and lead training program development to elevate expertise in the HFIR Cold Source systems.
  • The HFIR operates 24/7. Some work outside normal business hours may be required.

Basic Qualifications:

  • A BS degree in mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, or a related field with at least 8 years of relevant experience.
  • Current or former HFIR Cold Source Staff Member qualifications and proven experience in HFIR Cold Neutron Source operations.
  • Ability to interpret complex mechanical, electrical, and electronic system drawings.
  • Solid understanding of industry standards and regulations pertaining to cold source operations and safety, including standard industrial controls for ODH.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Current HFIR Cold Source Staff Member qualifications and 10 years of experience in cold neutron source operations.
  • 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.
  • Knowledge of automation and control systems relevant to cold source operations.

Special Requirements:

  • Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.
  • This position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About ORNL:

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.

Other benefits includethe 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, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available.

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.

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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