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Research Software Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

This premier research institution near Knoxville in Oak Ridge, TN, addresses national needs through ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field * 5+ years of ...

This premier research institution near Knoxville in Oak Ridge, TN, addresses national needs through ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field * 5+ years of ...

This premier research institution near Knoxville in Oak Ridge, TN, addresses national needs through ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related field * 5+ years of ...

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Research Software Engineer information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$96.7K

$178.7K

How much do research software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for research software engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $173,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $177,900.00 and $177,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Research Software Engineers working in high-demand industries, such as tech or finance, can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, or advanced degrees. Salaries vary based on location, company size, and expertise, with senior roles and those involving machine learning, data science, or leadership often reaching or exceeding this level.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior research software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like machine learning or high-performance computing, and often advanced degrees can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size, with some roles in tech, finance, or biotech reaching this level through bonuses and stock options.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Research Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills (often in Python, C++, or Java), a solid understanding of algorithms, and an academic or industry background in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, cloud platforms, and experience using scientific computing libraries and frameworks are valuable, while a master's or Ph.D. can be advantageous for specialized roles. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaborative skills help in working closely with researchers and multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities are crucial for successfully translating complex research problems into robust, reproducible software solutions that advance scientific inquiry.

What does a research software engineer do?

A research software engineer develops, maintains, and optimizes software tools and systems to support scientific research. They often collaborate with researchers to implement algorithms, analyze data, and ensure software reliability, frequently using programming languages like Python, C++, or Java. Their work enables efficient data processing and reproducibility in research projects.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for a Research Software Engineer?

As a Research Software Engineer, your daily work often involves designing and implementing software to support cutting-edge research projects, collaborating with scientists to understand their computational needs, and ensuring code reliability and reproducibility. You may spend time optimizing algorithms, writing unit tests, documenting software, and participating in code reviews within a collaborative team environment. Additionally, you might help deploy research applications on high-performance or cloud computing platforms and contribute to research publications. Balancing independent programming tasks with ongoing communication is key to making meaningful contributions to both the research and software development processes.

What is a Research Software Engineer job?

A Research Software Engineer (RSE) combines expertise in software development and research to create, maintain, and optimize software used in scientific or academic projects. They work closely with researchers to develop efficient, reliable, and reproducible software solutions for data analysis, simulations, or machine learning. RSEs bridge the gap between research and software engineering, ensuring that computational tools meet the needs of scientific investigations. Their role may involve coding, performance optimization, software sustainability, and deploying applications on high-performance computing or cloud platforms.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior research software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in machine learning or data science, and leadership roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or large tech companies. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, reflecting their advanced expertise and impact on projects.
What are popular job titles related to Research Software Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? For Research Software Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Software Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Research Software Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
Infographic showing various Research Software Engineer job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $173,961 per year, or $83.6 per hour.
Radiation Protection Research Scientist (Temporary)

Radiation Protection Research Scientist (Temporary)

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Contractor, Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16258
Overview:
The Environmental Risk and Energy Analysis group within the Environmental Sciences Division (ESD) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), is seeking a Scientist position in radiation dosimetry research. We seek a colleague with research interests in exploring radiation effects on humans using advanced simulation and computational approaches for radiation dose modeling and assessments. Responsibilities of the position will include advancing the Center for Radiation Protection Knowledge's (CRPK) existing research capabilities and ongoing programs as well as assisting in developing new research programs in radiation dosimetry.
Environmental Sciences Division is an interdisciplinary research and development organization with over 60 years of achievement in local, regional, national, and international environmental research. Our vision is to expand scientific knowledge and develop innovative strategies and technologies that will strengthen the nation's leadership in creating solutions to help sustain the Earth's natural resources. Our scientists conduct research, develop technology, and perform analyses to understand and assess responses of environmental systems at the environment-human interface and the consequences of alternative energy and environmental strategies. The Center for Radiation Protection Knowledge provides technical assistance to U.S. federal agencies involved in development of federal guidance for radiation protection and develops many of the biokinetic and dosimetric models recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and applied by U.S. federal agencies.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Interact with a team of scientists and engineers at ORNL in a variety of projects involving internal and external dosimetry and radiation risk analysis.
  • Computational dosimetry using stylized, voxel and mesh-type anthropomorphic phantoms
  • Compilation and evaluation of radionuclide decay data and the construction of environmental source terms
  • Dose reconstruction and radiological assessment based on bioassay, dosimeter measurements or environmental source terms
  • Dosimetry using spectral analysis and radiation detection instrumentation.
  • AI applications for radiation protection
  • Assist and enhance radiation dosimetry research relationships with CRPK sponsors
  • 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:
  • PhD in radiation biology, health physics, nuclear engineering, computational biology, or related areas, with experience in performing radiation dosimetry research
  • Experience in occupational and environmental radiological assessments and dose reconstruction based on bioassay or source terms
  • Demonstrated ability in the design and execution of complex and computationally intense radiation dosimetry problems including software engineering
  • Ability to conduct advanced radiation dosimetry modeling on HPC platforms
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team
  • Strong record of productive and creative research demonstrated by publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences
  • Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in leading radiation dosimetry research
  • Experience developing retrospective organ dose estimates for epidemiological studies
  • Demonstrated experience in computational dosimetry using stylized, voxel and mesh-type anthropomorphic phantoms
  • Experience in radiation protection guideline development

This is a temporary 24-month position. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.
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.

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