Chemical Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary:
Are you excited by the challenge of turning cutting-edge research into real-world impact? Do you thrive in environments where you can take ownership, innovate, and see your ideas come to life? Join our team and play a key role in advancing the next generation of nuclear fuel cycle operations.
We are seeking a Chemical Engineer who is passionate about developing new processes and scaling laboratory innovations into full-scale production. In this role, you'll apply your technical expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills to help shape the future of nuclear fuel technologies. You will work both independently and collaboratively, contributing to high-impact projects that support national missions and advanced manufacturing capability.
What You'll Do:
This role leads the design and development of new chemical processes and unit operations that enable nuclear fuel production. It involves managing complex engineering assignments, making independent technical decisions, and delivering clear technical reports and project updates. The position serves as a team lead for multidisciplinary groups and provides guidance to external consultants and engineering partners. Responsibilities also include active participation in technical design reviews, either presenting work or offering expert evaluation.
We'd Love to Hear from Candidates with:
• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering
• At least three years of experience in chemical process design in the nuclear, chemical, or petroleum industries
• Strong understanding of core chemical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid flow, heat and mass transfer, reactor kinetics, and process modeling
• Hands-on experience scaling processes from lab to pilot or production scale, or developing new processes based on literature and research
A Successful Candidate Brings:
• Experience designing or operating unit operations such as reactors, filtration systems, distillation columns, and liquid-liquid extraction systems in batch or continuous modes
• Proficiency with CAD tools (AutoCAD preferred)
• Familiarity with process simulation tools such as ChemCAD, Aspen Plus, or HSC Chemistry
• Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering (optional but advantageous)
• Active DOE Q Clearance or DOD TS Clearance (desired but not required-candidates able to obtain clearance are encouraged to apply)
Pay:
Estimated Starting Base Salary Range: $65,555 - $109,259. This position is Bonus eligible. Centrus considers several factors when extending job offers, including but not limited to candidates' key skills, relevant work experience, and education/training/certifications. While the posted range reflects the anticipated hiring range for this position, compensation above the range may be considered for candidates with exceptional qualifications and directly relevant experience.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
This position will require a pre-employment background check and a pre-employment drug test.
Centrus Energy and all subsidiaries shall abide by the applicable legal requirements. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.
This position requires the successful candidate to obtain and maintain a Q security clearance. Candidates for positions requiring a security clearance are required to be tested for the absence of any illegal drug as defined in 10 CFR 707.4 prior to an offer of employment being made. In addition, once employed, employees will become part of a random drug testing program and may also be tested in the event of any incident causing injury or causing damage to property, or if it is determined that there is a reasonable suspicion the employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This position will require preemployment background check on the part of the Company and in order to receive a Q security clearance, a background investigation by the Federal government. Subsequent Federal government reinvestigations may be required.
Centrus Energy Corp. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.