Computational Magnetohydrodynamics Engineer

Requisition Id15777

Overview:

The Fusion Energy Division at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory seeks applications for a skilled Computational Magnetohydrodynamics Engineer, with intended focus on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flows of electrically conducting liquids in a magnetic field, such as liquid metals (LMs) as well as plasma physics relevant to breeding/cooling fusion energy applications. The selected candidate will work on and lead various tasks related to coupled phenomena between fusion plasma and LM MHD flows in a fusion blanket or LM divertor. We seek individuals with advanced computational skills who can lead computational and experimental activities using commercial codes to compare with experiments and also be able to develop new computational models and computer programs. The successful candidate will work with a multidisciplinary team of simulation/design, and technology experts.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

The successful candidate will be involved in both developing new and applying existing models and simulation tools to understand physical processes in fusion applications that involve liquid metal magnetohydrodynamics and plasma physics, such as breeding blankets and liquid-metal plasma facing components. The selected candidate will be responsible for interaction with division staff and the external collaborators that work with the ORNL research group under the research projects funded by DOE, such as an ongoing SciDAC project on "Center for Simulation of Plasma - Liquid Metal Interactions in Plasma Facing Components and Breeding Blankets of a Fusion Power Reactor" and the FIRE collaborative project "Advancing the maturity of liquid metal (LM) plasma facing materials and first wall concepts". The candidate will be expected to work independently, lead, perform and collaborate on simulation/design and experimental activities, and fully document the work in technical reports and publications. The candidate will also be responsible for writing research proposals.

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Thermal-Mechanics, Fluids, or a closely related field.
• Experience in the development and application of complex engineering codes and preferable to have familiarity with fusion reactor concepts.
• Familiarity with Liquid Metal systems and MHD is required.
• Working knowledge of one or more CFD codes (OpenFOAM, COMSOL, HIMAG, ANSYS CFX, ANSYS FLUENT) that can be utilized in MHD flow computations is necessary, and/or research codes developed for liquid-metal MHD. Knowledge of mesh generation software is required,
• Excellent verbal, presentation, and writing skills are required to enable effective interaction and communication with technical peers, program managers, collaborators, and sponsors.
• Candidates must show examples of their academic and work experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.
• Experience in designing liquid metal flow loop experiments and performing measurements of liquid metal flows.
• Knowledge of plasma physics codes, such as M3D-C1 and SOLPS and familiarity with computations of open-surface flows (Level-set, Volume of fluid method) is a plus.
• Working knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) software, such as AutoCAD, CATIA, SOLIDWORK, FreeCAD or similar is required.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:
For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

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.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

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.