Experimental Operations Engineer

For this position the Nuclear Science and Engineering (NSE) Division is seeking an experienced electrical, mechanical, chemical and/or nuclear engineer to join our multi-disciplinary team that includes design engineers, test engineers, fluids and thermal researchers, and experienced technicians. 

The selected individual will oversee the design, construction, startup and commissioning, operations, and troubleshooting of cutting-edge experimental systems and sub-systems related to and in support of the intermediate-scale liquid metal technology experimental facility called the Mechanisms Engineering Test Loop (METL), its associated hydraulic loops and qualification hardware, and other test loops and NSE Division experiments.

Responsibilities include:

• Oversee the construction, startup, commissioning, and operations of intermediate and small-scale liquid metal technology experiments and provide technical support and/or direction for experimental and programmatic work in the areas of mechanical, electromechanical, optical, and electrical systems.

• Oversee the development, fabrication, troubleshooting, repair, calibration, purchasing, and maintenance for a variety of complex electronic and mechanical apparatus, plant/process equipment, and subsystems, with a specific focus on the intermediate scale liquid metal technology facility (METL) and Argonne’s other liquid metal and surrogate experiments.

• Design and testing of electro-mechanical equipment for advanced reactors that may be destined for testing in the MELT facility or its supporting infrastructure.

• Design and testing of electronic systems which typically consist of power supplies and controllers, data logging hardware, and equipment for temperature and valve control.

• Operate the METL facility or other facilities to provide the necessary conditions for the research and development conducted in the test vessels, etc.

• Oversee the design and testing of electronic systems which typically consist of power supplies and controllers, data logging hardware, and equipment for temperature and valve control.

• Coordinate with METL operators the installation and testing of specialized experimental equipment in the METL facility and its associated equipment.

• Must maintain knowledge and awareness of Laboratory policies and procedures.

Position Requirements

• Advanced experience with experimental design and operation including instrumentation (thermocouples, pressure transmitters, flow meters, level, etc.) specification, installation and operation.

• Prior resistance heating systems and LabVIEW/Eurotherm/industrial control experience.

• Prior liquid metal and high temperature experimental facility operations.

• Understanding of applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning as applied to experiments is desirable

• Prior leadership experience.

• Familiarity with industry standards and practices for electrical and/or mechanical systems.

• Knowledge of mechanical equipment (motors, pulleys, gears, pumps, valves, etc.), thermal effects on materials and components (expansion, evaporation, etc.), and operation of a personal computer.

• Knowledge of metallurgy, heat transfer and fluid mechanics.

• The position may oversee personnel performing shift work.

• Demonstrated interpersonal, oral and written communication.

• Ability to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

This position can be hired at one of two levels; the selected candidate will be placed at the appropriate level (RD2 or RD3) dependent upon the depth and breadth of relevant knowledge and skills. The minimum requirements of the two levels are as follows:

• RD2: Bachelor’s and 5+ years; Master’s and 3+ years; Doctorate and 0+ years, or equivalent. The expected pay range for this position is $94,486 - $147,399.

• RD3: Bachelor’s and 8+ years; Master’s and 5+ years; or Doctorate and 4+ years; or equivalent. The expected pay range for this position is $116,250 - $181,350.

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Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

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As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.