Material Characterization Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is a leading DOE national laboratory at the forefront of nuclear energy research and national security. Our Environment, Science & Technology (EES&T) directorate is seeking an experienced Department Manager to lead the Analytical Chemistry and Characterization department - a team of researchers and technicians delivering advanced analytical and materials characterization services that underpin INL's scientific mission. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.

This is a high-impact leadership role for a technically credentialed scientist or engineer who thrives at the intersection of team leadership, strategic growth, and hands-on research. You will shape department capabilities, cultivate talent, and help drive INL's science forward.

This position is approximately 70% management and 30% active research.

People & Team Leadership Responsibilities:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team of researchers and technicians, building depth in technical expertise at all levels.
• Manage staffing plans, performance expectations, and individual development goals to support both departmental and career growth objectives.
• Set the standard for scientific rigor, quality, and professional engagement - including participation in conferences and peer-reviewed publications.

Technical & Operational Oversight:

• Oversee delivery of chemistry and characterization services, ensuring work is completed to high quality standards and on schedule to meet customer expectations.
• Work with lead professionals and technical staff to maintain, refine, and expand core departmental capabilities.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is properly maintained; identify and advocate for new instrumentation that strengthens long-term capability.
• Manage department budgets and schedules, making data-driven decisions to keep operations on track.

Strategy, Growth & Collaboration:

• Develop and execute department strategy aligned with divisional and directorate priorities.
• Proactively identify new funding opportunities and research partnerships with internal teams, DOE sponsors, industry, and other federal agencies.
• Provide recommendations on LDRD investments and business development funds to advance the department's strategic direction.
• Engage broadly across INL with peer managers, customers, and external collaborators - to understand emerging needs and position the department for growth.

Required Qualifications:

• Master's degree or higher in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related science or engineering discipline.
• 10+ years of relevant professional experience in analytical chemistry, materials characterization, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience leading and managing technical teams.
• Demonstrated knowledge of analytical and/or materials characterization methods.
• Peer-reviewed publication record in a relevant technical field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in a science or engineering discipline with 5+ years of post-doctoral experience.
• Experience developing non-routine or novel analytical methods and procedures.
• Prior experience at a DOE national laboratory or in a DOE-funded research environment.
• Established relationships with DOE program sponsors, industry partners, or federal agency stakeholders.
• Ability to travel up to 20%.
  

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 field/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 35 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 target pay range for this position is ($158,712- $237,174)  annually. The full pay range is ($107,844 - $274,980). 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.