Energy Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Requisition Id 16588
Overview:
Energy and water systems are deeply intertwined, and advancing science at their intersection is critical to the nation's future. We are seeking a scientist with domain expertise in energy-water interactions and interdependence to perform cutting edge research in the Water Resources Sciences and Engineering Group at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). This is an opportunity to develop novel tools and techniques, publish in top-tier journals, collaborate with industry and academic partners, and access world-leading research computing facilities-all while working on problems of national significance.
The successful candidate will possess advanced knowledge and a range of skills relevant to energy-water research. Examples may include:

• Analysis and modeling of water availability and quality for hydropower and thermoelectric plant performance and compliance
• Water and energy requirements for data centers, and associated impacts on river systems and power grids
• AI/ML modeling methods applicable to energy-water research
• Large scale energy-water dataset creation and maintenance
• Operational decision-making in power generation, such as day-ahead hydropower scheduling
• Applications of agentic AI in energy-water research

The successful candidate must demonstrate an ability to work independently, evidenced by leading roles in high-impact peer-reviewed publications, professional scientific code/software, or high-quality datasets. Candidates must also possess interdisciplinary teamwork skills, as they will be expected to work with researchers in water resources engineering, energy systems, critical infrastructure, and computational sciences. Experience collaborating with industry (e.g., utilities, power producers) or external agency partners is an asset.
The Water Resources Science and Engineering Group works on water problems of national significance with direct relevance to clean energy, grid resilience, and energy-water infrastructure planning. Research staff benefit from access to world-leading high-performance computing facilities and a deeply interdisciplinary research environment. They are supported with mentorship, conference travel, and opportunities to develop independent research directions and build professional networks. Oak Ridge and the greater Knoxville area offer an affordable cost of living, vibrant outdoor culture with proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains, and a growing scientific community.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Develop, improve, and implement novel energy-water theories, techniques, and models to promote the growth and resilience of domestic power generation.
• Lead and participate in research partnerships with industrial and academic partners.
• Lead proposals for future research related to clean and renewable energy development.
• Publish high-quality, impactful, peer-reviewed journal articles and reports.
• Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• A PhD in Hydrology, Water Resources, Engineering, Physics, Environmental Science, or related discipline
• 0-2 years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Postdoctoral experience with strong focus on research at the intersection of energy and water systems

Special 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.
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.
If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
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.