Machine Design Engineering Group Leader

Overview

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is the largest U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. The Enrichment Systems Engineering Section is seeking a Machine Design Engineering Group Leader who will support the Enrichment Science and Engineering Division (ESED) within the Isotope Science and Engineering Directorate (ISED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). ESED serves the nation in two critical areas: advancing enrichment technologies and exploring stable isotope production and applications. The division leverages an elite staff of scientists and engineers with the world‑leading capabilities of ORNL to deliver groundbreaking advancements with a variety of applications, from national security to life‑saving medical treatments. ESED is the national steward for the research, development, and demonstration of centrifuge technology innovations; advances electromagnetic isotope separations technology; and delivers stable isotopes for medical, industrial, and DOE mission‑critical applications. The successful candidate will execute these important missions by teaming with ESED’s division director, program managers, and staff to build on a rich history of accomplishments in enrichment science and engineering.

As part of our team, you will provide technical leadership and first‑line oversight of work assignments that strategically advance enrichment technologies. The Machine Design Engineering Group Leader reports to and works closely with the Enrichment Systems Engineering Section Head to manage group assignments, approve machine design outputs, drive continuous process improvements, and develop subject matter expertise. This position works closely with other ESED line managers; project managers; design, manufacturing, testing staff; and quality representatives to execute discrete project scope according to approved schedules, budgets, and milestones.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

1. Leadership
   • Provide technical leadership and guidance across centrifuge machine design activities.
   • Implement design control practices within a graded‑approach, supporting both R&D and Deployment project scopes.
   • Produce a high‑performance culture, where the content, complexity, and accuracy of design outputs are consistent with the request.
   • Manage group assignments and deliver design outputs (requirements, drawings, specifications, calcs.) within communicated schedule guidance, while maintaining flexibility to support multiple tasks and adapt to ever‑changing needs.
2. Capability/Staff Development
   • Be the technical leader and resource for group members when challenges arise.
   • Clearly communicate expectations, providing visibility of what successful looks like for roles within the group.
   • Ensure individual performance goals are set, progress evaluated, and timely feedback is provided.
3. Research & Development
   • Cultivate and sustain advanced technical expertise in high‑speed rotating machinery and high‑vacuum systems, demonstrating subject matter proficiency in motor, magnet, and bearing technologies.
   • Support a prototype environment which allows quick‑iteration and the ability to safely fail‑fast, while advancing concepts to defined acceptance criteria.
   • Lead troubleshooting technical issues and drive actions to completion.
   • Review design outputs with manufacturing and testing stakeholders to expedite downstream activities.
4. Deployment
   • Maintain design control through configuration management principles of design reviews, verification, and change control.
   • Review analysis results and test data for targeted machine design advancements.
   • Approve design drawings and specifications.
   • Ensure acceptance criteria is defined and accurately translated.
   • Maintain visibility of Design Change Requests and Production Order demands, ensuring work in process is adequately supported (for both internal and external fabrication shops).

Basic Qualifications

• BS degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience
• A minimum of 3 years' experience in precision machine design
• Demonstrated experience leading technical teams or projects
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of individuals in a diverse cross‑functional community
• The ability to obtain and maintain a Q clearance which requires US Citizenship

Preferred Qualifications

• Active DOE Q Clearance
• Licensed Professional Engineer
• SolidWorks Professional
• Strong configuration management practices in a product life‑cycle management (PLM) database
• Relevant design experience with enrichment system technologies
• Experience working in secure environments and ensuring protection of sensitive information
• Successful execution of research and development or other large technology‑based projects at ORNL or within the DOE complex
• Demonstrated experience in developing acceptance criteria and interpreting inspection results

Special Requirements

• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD‑12 PIV badge.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, 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.

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.

Location

This position is located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and requires onsite presence. We offer a flexible work environment that supports both the organization and the employee.

Relocation

Moving can be overwhelming and expensive. UT‑Battelle offers a generous relocation package to ease the transition process. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions. If invited to interview, be sure to ask your Recruiter (Talent Acquisition Partner) for details.

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.