Senior Research Staff - Advanced Machining and Machine Tool Research Group

Overview We are seeking a Senior Research Staff Member within the Advanced Machining and Machine Tool Group who will provide technical leadership in the development, execution, and growth of research programs focused on advanced machining, machine tool science, machine tool performance, manufacturing process monitoring, machine tool metrology, and data‑driven manufacturing systems. The successful candidate will lead multidisciplinary research projects, develop new research directions, build sponsor and industry relationships, and help advance the technical strategy of the Advanced Machining and Machine Tool Research Group. This position resides in the Advanced Machining and Machine Tool Research Group in the Manufacturing Science Division, Energy Science and Technology Directorate, at Oak Ridge National Laboratory's Manufacturing Demonstration Facility. Major Duties/Responsibilities Lead research and development projects in advanced machining, machine tool systems, machine tool metrology, process monitoring, manufacturing process optimization, and related manufacturing technologies. Serve as a senior technical contributor and project lead for medium to large research projects involving complex machining and machine tool challenges. Define technical objectives, research approaches, project plans, milestones, deliverables, budgets, and risk mitigation strategies for sponsored research projects. Develop original technical solutions to highly complex manufacturing problems requiring the integration of machining science, machine tool engineering, metrology, controls, data analytics, materials behavior, and experimental research. Lead experimental research activities involving CNC machining, machine tool characterization, process sensing, cutting tool evaluation, machine dynamics, thermal and geometric error assessment, part quality evaluation, and manufacturing process optimization. Develop significant new research proposals, funding strategies, technical concepts, and research partnerships aligned with ORNL, DOE, sponsor, and industry priorities. Build and maintain relationships with government sponsors, industrial partners, machine tool builders, equipment suppliers, universities, and other external collaborators. Influence group and division research directions by identifying emerging needs, technical gaps, new opportunities, and strategic areas for growth in machining and machine tool research. Coordinate and lead multidisciplinary teams of researchers, technical staff, postdoctoral researchers, students, and external collaborators to achieve project objectives. Communicate research results through high‑quality technical reports, peer‑reviewed publications, conference presentations, sponsor briefings, invention disclosures, and internal program reviews. Support safe, effective, and compliant operation of machine tools, laboratories, instrumentation, and experimental systems in accordance with ORNL policies, procedures, and best practices. 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 PhD in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, controls engineering, or a related discipline with at least 6 years of relevant experience or MS and at least 12 years of relevant experience. Demonstrated record of technical leadership in machining science, machine tool systems, manufacturing process monitoring, machine tool metrology, process optimization, or manufacturing systems research. Experience leading medium to large research projects, including project planning, budget awareness, milestone tracking, sponsor communication, technical reporting, and coordination of multidisciplinary teams. Preferred Qualifications Experience developing successful research proposals, sponsor relationships, industry partnerships, or new technical program areas. Recognized technical expertise related to CNC machine tools, machine controllers, G‑code, CAM software, machining process planning, fixture design, and/or practical manufacturing workflows. Experience with machine tool metrology and performance evaluation methods such as ball‑bar testing, laser interferometry, volumetric accuracy assessment, spindle characterization, probing, thermal testing, or dynamic compliance testing. Experience integrating sensors, data acquisition systems, and instrumentation into machining or manufacturing systems. Experience with data analysis, modeling, or automation using tools such as Python, MATLAB, C#, C++, or similar engineering software environments. Experience with CAD/CAM/CAE tools such as Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Mastercam, Fusion, VERICUT, or similar platforms. Experience working with industry partners, government sponsors, equipment suppliers, or multidisciplinary research teams. Demonstrated record of technical contributions through publications, technical reports, patents, invention disclosures, conference presentations, funded proposals, or delivered manufacturing technology demonstrations. 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 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. For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD‑12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post‑employment background investigation. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws. For foreign national candidates: If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and will instead need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three‑year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment. Benefits 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. Equal Opportunity Employer 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr Oak Ridge National Laboratory