Senior Principal Radiochemist

Principal Radiochemist for a long-term (12 month) contract-to-direct role with our Nuclear Energy client based in Everett, WA.

Must be willing to work in the laboratory/office and reside a commutable distance to the office. No relocation support available.

This Principal Radiochemist will be involved in experiments related to Molten Chloride Fast Reactor (MCFR) technology and is expected to work at the interface of nuclear reactor development and novel waste reduction technologies. The candidate should have demonstrated laboratory capabilities in radiochemical experimental design and implementation. It is anticipated the candidate may serve as Principal Investigator (PI) on several experimental efforts.

This position interfaces with a dynamic cross-functional, multi-cultural, interdisciplinary team in which effective communication, teamwork and collaboration is required, while maintaining composure to act safely, ensure quality of data, and enable timely decision-making. The successful candidate will be responsible for contributing to design of experiments, implementation and data analysis on chloride based molten salt systems chemistry necessary for the proper operation of the demonstration reactor program.

Some specific requirements of the position involve actinide salt synthesis, salt analysis and characterization, and thermodynamic and kinetic property measurements of actinides and fission products in high temperature molten salts. The position will require good judgement in ensuring regulatory compliance while delivering on commercial production and engineering design needs.

1. Lead and assist experiments, including as a Principal Investigator.
2. Propose, design and conduct synthesis of actinide compounds, develop chemistry and processes in high temperature molten salts, and support thermodynamic and kinetic measurements therein.
3. Lead and assist in radiochemistry laboratory developments, including the design of flexible experimental chemistry.
4. Prepare technical reports, peer review manuscripts, intellectual property documents and conference presentations.
5. Maintain laboratory procedures (e.g., calibration, analytical methods, notebook results preparation, usage documentation).
6. Emphasize safety in new and existing design and safe practices in all experimental activities.
7. Assist in the training, developing, and mentoring of employees.

1. Doctoral level degree (PhD) in radiochemistry, chemistry or equivalent disciplines with a minimum of 5 years relevant experience.
2. Demonstrated experience of bulk actinide and radiological material synthesis, processing or handling under controlled environments is required.
3. Extensive background of the chemistry of nuclear systems and radiochemistry relevant to the fuel cycle.
4. Extensive background in radiochemistry relevant to advanced nuclear reactor development.
5. Demonstrated leadership within multifunctional teams and in the execution of complex projects is desired.
6. Demonstrated experience working in inert and moisture-free atmospheres, such as gloveboxes and Schlenk lines, and adapting equipment for use in such environments is compulsory.
7. Experience designing and performing experiments with high temperature molten salts preferred.
8. Expertise in characterization methods relevant to actinide compounds is needed. Must have experience with four or more of the following: ICP-OES, ICP-MS, TGA/DSC, XRD, alpha spectroscopy, gamma spectroscopy, and chromatography (IC, HPLC, TLC).
9. Experience in thermophysical property measurements and modelling is a plus.
10. Experience with planning, design and execution of electrochemical, spectroscopic and spectroelectrochemical experiments is a plus.
11. Experience demonstrating the highest standards with respect to safety and radiation protection in all work activities, particularly regarding NRC standards.
12. Strong communication and verbal skills.
13. Demonstrated integrity, openness, and respect in teamwork settings.

We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those qualified individuals who closely meet the qualifications of the position will be contacted. The details of the position are only a summary, other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Background Check and Drug Screen may be required.

Pay range is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. Talascend also offers a variety of benefits including: health and disability insurance, 401(k), EAP, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, plan requirements, schedule type, and client work site mandates.

Talascend is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.