Job Details

Staff Member - Advanced Polymer Composites

We are seeking a Technical Professional Staff member who will focus on manufacturing processes and testing for advanced polymer composites. The successful candidate will be expected to execute research and development tasks at ORNL's Manufacturing Demonstration Facility including, but not limited to: operating polymer composite manufacturing systems such as extrusion, compression molding, large area thermoplastic extrusion additive manufacturing systems, infusion and thermoforming processes designing test and demonstration articles, preparing and analyzing material samples; analyzing samples; and preparing reports of the results of such analyses. The staff will be expected to collaborate amongst groups focusing on basic and applied research in various fields related to the current projects. This position resides in the Composites Innovation Group in the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD), Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). As part of our research team, the candidate will execute tasks necessary to advancement the science of manufacturing with emphasis on polymer composites manufacturing processes. Experience in polymer composite materials processing and testing is critical for this position. You will be expected to simultaneously execute multiple projects, contribute to lab set-up, operations, maintenance of equipment, interact with ORNL staff, industry, and academic partners.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Execute tasks for projects in the area of high-rate composite manufacturing
• Characterize polymer composites feedstock materials
• Prepare polymeric and composite materials and intermediates
• Execute tasks for projects in the area of post process of composite structures
• Execute tasks for projects in the area of additive manufacturing and processing of advanced thermoplastic composites
• Execute tasks for projects in the area of design and manufacturing optimization for additive manufacturing
• Contribute to lab set-up and operations
• Work with others to maintain a high level of scientific productivity
• Interact regularly with senior scientists, program managers, group members, and industrial partners, and prepare and present periodic reports documenting research and development
• Present and report research results and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals in a timely manner
• Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health and quality program requirements
• Ensure compliance with ORNL operation excellence
• Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics
• 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:

• A BS in manufacturing, mechanical engineering or a related discipline
• Experience with advanced polymer manufacturing processes
• Experience with continuous & discontinuous composite material systems
• Experience with different polymer characterization and testing methods
• Experience with computer aided design (CAD) software and concepts

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.