Thermal Energy Systems Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a well-qualified Postdoctoral Research Associate in nuclear or mechanical engineering or comparable discipline for the Thermal Systems Analysis group in the Integrated Systems and Thermal Analysis department. This postdoctoral researcher will focus on thermal energy systems, integrated energy systems, industrial heat applications, thermal power generation, heat transfer, process modeling, technoeconomic analysis, and cost estimation of advanced energy systems. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

The selected candidate will work with interdisciplinary teams supporting nuclear-integrated industrial applications, advanced thermal management concepts, energy conversion systems, and related modeling and analysis activities, as well as experimental systems design. The candidate will support work on optimizing these from a cost, reliability and technical standpoint.

The candidate is expected to be a strong asset to our interdisciplinary R&D team and work effectively both alone and as a team member. The candidate must be self-motivated but also take direction from other team members and peers.

The position entails writing scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings.

Required:

• PhD in nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering or comparable disciplines.
• PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
• Knowledge of system thermodynamics and power generation technical analysis, heat exchange and heat exchangers, system modeling, and thermal power generation technologies.
• Knowledge of technoeconomic analysis and energy economics with the ability to assess and optimize engineering problems from a technical and economic perspective.
• Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English.
  

The ideal candidate will possess:

• General coding experience and thermodynamic modelling experience; examples include:
  • Knowledge of Python, Matlab/Simulink or equivalent general analysis coding language.
  • Experience in modelling tools such as Aspen HYSYS, Modelica, EES, EBSILONProfessional, or equivalent.
• Nuclear Engineering
  • Knowledge of nuclear systems and nuclear power plant engineering.
• Experimental Design
  • Previous experience in designing thermal system experiments desired but not required.
• Cost Estimation
  • Experience in cost estimation of engineering systems. Job will involve working with vendors and industrial partners to assess the cost of designed systems.
• Experience with concepts such as capacity expansion, cash flow analysis, levelized electricity costs etc.
  

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, use hands to handle materials, manipulate tools, keyboard and type, reach with hands and arms, and operate job-related equipment. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with people is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Information:

• The pay for this position is $105,144.00 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements:

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation:

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information:

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.