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How much do oak ridge national laboratory ornl jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for oak ridge national laboratory ornl in Oak Ridge, TN is $24.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)?

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is the largest multi-disciplinary science and energy research laboratory in the U.S. Department of Energy system. Located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, ORNL conducts research in areas such as materials science, energy production and efficiency, biological science, and national security. The laboratory is known for its advanced research facilities, supercomputing resources, and contributions to scientific discovery and technological innovation. ORNL collaborates with industries, universities, and government agencies to address critical scientific challenges. Its work supports both basic and applied research that impacts energy, security, and environmental issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) research scientist?

To thrive as a research scientist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), you typically need an advanced degree (such as a Ph.D.) in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline, along with a strong background in research methodologies. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and sometimes high-performance computing platforms is essential. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication skills set candidates apart in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments. These skills and qualifications are critical for driving innovative research, securing funding, and contributing to impactful scientific advancements.

What is the typical team structure and collaboration style at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)?

At Oak Ridge National Laboratory, most projects are highly collaborative and interdisciplinary, often involving scientists, engineers, and technical staff from various backgrounds. Teams are typically organized around specific research goals or initiatives, and members are encouraged to contribute their expertise while also learning from others. Regular meetings, open communication, and cross-departmental partnerships are common, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. This collaborative structure enables employees to work on impactful projects and expand their professional networks within the lab.

What is the difference between Oak Ridge National Laboratory Ornl vs Research Scientist?

AspectOak Ridge National Laboratory OrnlResearch Scientist
CredentialsAdvanced degrees in science or engineering, often PhDTypically PhD or equivalent in relevant field
Work EnvironmentGovernment research facility, collaborative labsAcademic, government, or private research settings
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Energy, national labsUniversities, research institutes, or government agencies
Common Search/ComparisonResearch roles at ORNLResearch positions in science and engineering

Oak Ridge National Laboratory Ornl is a government-funded research facility focusing on scientific innovation, while a Research Scientist is a role that can be found across various institutions, including ORNL, universities, and private labs. Both require advanced degrees and involve conducting scientific research, but ORNL is a specific employer within the national lab system.

Does Oak Ridge National Laboratory ORNL pay well?

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) offers competitive salaries for research scientists, engineers, and technical staff, often aligned with federal government pay scales and industry standards. Compensation varies based on experience, education, and role, with additional benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Is Oak Ridge National Laboratory a good place to work?

Oak Ridge National Laboratory offers a collaborative research environment with opportunities in science, engineering, and technology. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, access to advanced facilities, and a focus on innovation, making it a reputable employer in the research sector.

What qualifications do I need to work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory ORNL?

To work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, candidates typically need a relevant bachelor's degree or higher in fields such as science, engineering, or technology. Relevant experience, security clearances, and proficiency with specialized tools or research methods may also be required depending on the position.

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Oak Ridge National Laboratory Ornl jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Oak Ridge National Laboratory Ornl job openings:

Infographic showing various Oak Ridge National Laboratory Ornl job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,208 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Patent Paralegal

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

Requisition Id 16940
This is a 100% onsite role in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Relocation assistance is not provided.
Overview:
Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) is the largest US Department of Energy science and energy laboratory, conducting basic and applied research to deliver transformative solutions to compelling problems in energy and security. Our diverse capabilities span a broad range of scientific and engineering disciplines, enabling the Laboratory to explore fundamental science challenges and to carry out the research needed to accelerate the delivery of solutions to the marketplace.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory's (ORNL's) Legal Directorate is seeking a Patent Paralegal to provide professional support to attorneys and staff in the Intellectual Property Management Group.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Prepare and file all formal papers for patent applications written within ORNL.
  • Docket all actions for all ORNL patent applications.
  • Work closely with all patent agents to assist when necessary and to ensure that all deadlines are met.
  • Ensure outside counsel invoices for UT-Battelle's Patent Portfolio are properly administered and recorded in patent database.
  • Work closely with outside law firms to monitor actions and make sure all necessary actions are addressed.
  • Provide administrative support as needed.
  • 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:
  • High school diploma plus a minimum of five years of relevant experience, at least three of which must be experience as a paralegal, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in MS Word, MS Outlook, MS Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Must have ability to learn quickly and adapt to rapid changes.
  • Excellent interpersonal and verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to apply critical thinking and analytical skills, which includes analyzing facts and issues and coming up with solutions.
  • Ability to work as a part of a team, including demonstration of cooperativeness, enthusiasm, positive attitude, and high-
  • Strong work ethic which includes staying on task, top-notch organizational and time management skills, punctuality, and reliability.
  • Ability to follow directions and the confidence to ask questions or engage in collaborative discussion.
  • Experience in document (paper and electronically stored information) identification, collection, review, production, and document management.
  • Ability to work occasional overtime and to travel.
  • Ensure compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements including Integrated Safety Management System.
  • Maintain strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of values and ethics.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Patent paralegal experience.
  • Paralegal certification
  • Familiarity with the Anaqua patent docketing system.
  • Willingness to learn, think outside the box, be resourceful, and be adaptable to change.

Special Requirements:
  • Visa sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • 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.
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.

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