Nuclear Science & Engineering Division Director

Nuclear Science & Engineering Division Director

We are seeking a motivated and capable leader to serve as Division Director of the Nuclear Science and Engineering Division at ORNL. Reporting to and working closely with the Associate Lab Director (ALD) of the Fusion and Fission Energy and Science Directorate (FFESD), the Division Director is responsible for advancing ORNL capabilities and interests in supporting the nation's aspirations for nuclear energy development.

ORNL, with FFESD at the lead, has world-class technical capabilities advanced nuclear reactor design, reactor and component simulation, development of computational tools and code development, nuclear sensors and instrumentation, neutronics, thermal hydraulics, criticality safety, and nuclear data. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and executing a vision that brings together capabilities from across ORNL to deliver technical understanding and solutions that address the needs of the expanding nuclear industry.

Leaning on a long, rich history in nuclear R&D, ORNL remains a key innovator and contributor with an extensive set of core strengths residing in the Nuclear Science and Engineering Division (NSED), and throughout the Lab. In addition to a diverse set of research and development (R&D) capabilities that are solving the most complicated aspects of nuclear energy development, ORNL has multiple partnerships with private companies in the development and execution of key components of their technology roadmaps. The DOE Office of Nuclear Energy (DOE-NE) and Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) are key sponsors of the Division.

The Director will be responsible for key interfaces and strategy to capture and execute programs supported by these and other DOE offices. The incumbent will be responsible for ideating, developing, and completing a multidimensional R&D program that motivates, drives, and supports the nation's plan for nuclear energy development. This will include foundational R&D programs targeting rapid advances in the underlying science and technology, translational R&D that converts this knowledge to solutions, and supportive R&D that provides subject matter expertise to interested industry partners. Developing and adjusting the appropriate mix of these programs as well as the necessary skill mix will be a key responsibility for the NSED Director.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop, and as necessary evolve, NSED strategy for support of advanced nuclear energy demonstration and deployments working closely with the FFESD ALD, peer FFESD division directors, and leaders in other ORNL organizations.
• Serve as primary programmatic interface with appropriate DOE-NE offices, working closely with FFESD ALD, FFESD Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships Director, and peer FFESD division directors to ensure consistent, effective communication on key matters
• Advance the scientific excellence of NSED through scientific productivity, program impact, publications, intellectual property development, and engagement of staff in external organizations.
• Grow capabilities and staff expertise as needed to support the domestic nuclear industry's aggressive licensing and deployment objectives
• Review and approve staff proposals to ensure scope-schedule-budget alignment as well as work is consistent with FFESD strategy
• Oversee effective workforce development program that attracts and retains diverse, high-quality staff. Ensure a vibrant, inclusive workplace environment in which all staff can succeed
• Collaborate with management peers to assist the FFESD ALD in defining and implementing strategic programmatic R&D missions for FFESD and the Laboratory.
• Complete line management responsibilities including supervision of group leaders, budget and business planning, salary planning, staff recruitment and development, employee relations, and performance management.
• Serve as the division work authority, striving to implement a culture within the workplace that is attentive to the identification of hazards and adaptable to providing controls and processes to address the hazards.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service.

Basic Qualifications: An advanced technical degree Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field of study with 15-20 years of proven experience. Evidence of prior successful experience in leading R&D teams. Scientific productivity proven through a record of lead-authored publications The ability to obtain and maintain a Q clearance which requires US citizenship.

Preferred Qualifications: PhD in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field of study. Management of line organization at the group or division level (or equivalent). Demonstrated experience in developing effective teams with significant contributions from individuals/groups outside direct management control. Hands-on experience in working in research partnerships, either through research participation or coordination role. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with a broad spectrum of people and issues in a fast-paced R&D environment. Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently in conceptualizing, initiating, and evaluating research opportunities. Ability to function well in a dynamic and changing research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to constantly evolving needs.

Desirable Qualifications: Experience developing or coordinating DOE-funded research programs and/or similar venture-capital-driven industries. Proven track record to establish, nurture, and execute on technical partnerships with external participants.

Special Requirements: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. 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.