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Laser and Optical Spectroscopy Postdoctoral Researcher

Battelle Energy Alliance
paid time off, tuition assistance, 401(k)
United States, Idaho, Idaho Falls
1955 Fremont Avenue (Show on map)
Jan 06, 2026
Description

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Laser and Optical Spectroscopy Postdoctoral Researcher in Nuclear Engineering, Physics or Related Discipline to work in our Materials Minimization, Security, and International Safeguards Department in the Nuclear Nonproliferation Division. You will report to the project investigator. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

Candidates with laser and spectroscopy experience are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience working with high temperature systems, inert gas gloveboxes, and vacuum systems is ideal.

While the bulk of this position entails laser and optical spectroscopy work, you will be exposed to diverse measurement techniques including electrochemistry, neutron and gamma non-destructive assay, bubbler technologies, mass spectroscopy, etc. Additionally, you may be expected to support work in nuclear facilities from time to time.

A successful candidate will have opportunities to participate in career development seminars/workshops and will be encouraged to pursue research interests through collaboration and proposal opportunities.

Responsibilities Include:

  • You will support online spectroscopy measurement research and development for safeguards of nuclear materials in different applications- including high temperature molten salts in solid, vapor/gas, and aerosol form.
  • Utilize specific spectroscopy techniques including laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), Raman, and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS).
  • Set up and participating in experiments, data collection, performing data analysis, chemometric analysis, and interpreting and publishing findings.
  • Write scientific manuscripts for journal publication, and presentation of research results at national and international conferences and meetings.
Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • PhD in Nuclear Engineering, Physics, or comparable disciplines.
  • PhD requirements must be completed by commencement of appointment and within the previous 5 years.
  • Demonstrated oral and published written communication skills in English.
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "Q" clearance, which requires US Citizenship.
  • Must be willing to work on-site in INL Facilities.

Preferred Experience:

  • Spectroscopy experience in LIBS/LAMIS, UV-VIS, or Raman.
  • Hands-on experience with lasers and optics.
  • Experience with high temperature systems and vacuum systems.
  • Basics knowledge of the nuclear fuel cycle and recycling technologies, including pyroprocessing.

Job Information:

  • The pay range for this position is $101,196 Annually. At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.
  • TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.
  • Multi-Level: This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle. 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.

Benefits and Relocation

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match
  • Paid time off (personal leave)
  • Employee Education Program (tuition assistance)
  • Comprehensive Relocation Package
  • Benefit eligibility subject 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.

INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.

Primary Location : US-ID-Idaho Falls
Job : Postdoc
Organization : National & Homeland Security (Dxxx)
Schedule : Full-time
Employee Status : Regular
Job Posting : Jan 5, 2026, 11:23:37 PM
Unposting Date : Jan 20, 2026, 6:59:00 AM
RELOCATION : Position Relocation Eligible
TELEWORK : On-Site Worker
Applied = 0

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