What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Electron Microscopy Scientist position at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions?
Who We Are
As the Savannah River Site’s management and operations contractor since 2008, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) makes the world safer. With safety and security in the forefront, SRNS develops innovative approaches to deliver on our environmental commitments and nuclear materials challenges; supplies products and services necessary to maintain the nation’s nuclear deterrent; secures nuclear materials to prevent unwanted proliferation; and transforms nuclear materials into assets and stable wasteforms. The SRNS workforce is highly capable, engaged, and adaptable to meet existing and expanding missions. SRNS employees apply superior expertise and innovative solutions to complex and challenging national and global issues. We have the knowledge to address a range of national and international nuclear issues. We make the world safer – and you can, too.
Job Family
Science, Math & Technology
Discipline
Microscopist
Career Level
P4
Salary Range
$101,328 - $147,168
Note for Salary
This is the range within which SRNS expects the majority of qualified candidates would enter this role if offered. Actual offers may be more or less than the amounts shown depending on candidate’s qualifications, experience, internal equity, and other factors.
Job Family Description
Science, Mathematics & Technology roles encompass a broad spectrum of STEM expertise dedicated to the SRS mission operations support, scientific research, technical applications, advancement of scientific principles, mathematics, and statistical applications. Professionals in this field may conduct research, analyze data, perform laboratory methods in support of critical missions, and develop theories to solve complex problems in areas such as physics, chemistry, hydrogeology, environmental science, biology, and mathematics.
Discipline Description
Microscopists use advanced microscopy techniques to examine and analyze microscopic structures and materials, including nuclear fuel, reactor components, and radioactive particles. They study samples to identify defects, microstructural changes, or contamination that could affect nuclear operations or safety. Microscopists collaborate closely with engineers, physicists, and safety inspectors to provide detailed insights and support decision-making regarding maintenance, operations, and safety protocols within a facility.
Some Typical Duties & Responsibilities Include
Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) is seeking a Senior Electron Microscopy Scientist to assist in the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility’s Materials Characterization laboratories. This position will play a primary role in the startup and operation of electron microscopy capabilities in multiple facilities for this major new site mission. You will primarily assist with the startup, commissioning, and operation of multiple Electron Microprobes. Ideally, you would also assist with the startup, commissioning, and operation of a Plasma Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscope. As one of the initial team members, you will have significant input into the lab's method development, operations, and organizational development.
This position will have authorities and responsibilities in the following areas:
Professional
Career Band Description
Requires specialized expertise in field/discipline acquired through significant years of experience, leading others to solve complex problems, working independently with guidance in only the most complex situations; may lead functional teams or projects.
Security Clearance Information
SRNS is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug & alcohol test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, criminal records, and employment history, and education verifications. Positions with SRNS may require applicants to obtain and maintain a DOE L or Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. Factors such as pre-employment background review results, dual citizenship status, and unpaid and/or unfiled taxes may impact your ability to obtain a security clearance. This list of factors is not exhaustive; pre-employment information and security clearance requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Clearance Required To Perform Job
Q
What We Offer
Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) Benefits team is constantly assessing trends in the benefits area to provide the best possible services to our workforce. We ensure high quality outcomes of each service provider by consistent monitoring and oversight for positive results. We also negotiate cost effective premiums that will meet the needs of our evolving workforce. Your SRNS Health & Welfare benefits provide peace of mind and financial protection for you and your family. Some of the Benefits offered to full service employees include:
Standards of Excellence
The SRNS Vision States That We Will "be The Standard Of Excellence In Nuclear Materials Management By Delivering Knowledge, Innovation And Experience." This Is Underpinned By The Recognition That Everything We Do Relies On Our Employees And How They Demonstrate The SRNS Standards Of Excellence Every Day. Built On The Foundation Of Safety And Security, Each Employee Is Expected To
Model Excellence by demonstrating the highest standards and values in work and promoting them within the organization and to the customer.
Deliver Results by meeting customer expectations to ensure objectives, goals and deadlines are met while being good stewards of resources.
Energize and Recognize Teams through growing organizational strength and recognizing continued excellence.
Build Relationships by developing relationships with coworkers and customers to foster a respectful workplace.
Shape the Future by creating a diverse, innovative and integrated workforce that fosters mission success and company growth.
Note
SRNS is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. SRNS utilizes the Disabled Veteran Enhancement Opportunities program which is aimed at improving employment opportunities for disabled veterans at the Savannah River Site (SRS). SRNS is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, you may contact us by phone at 803-952-8207, or by e-mail at hrrecruiting@srs.gov.
24-Jun-2026
As the Savannah River Site’s management and operations contractor since 2008, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) makes the world safer. With safety and security in the forefront, SRNS develops innovative approaches to deliver on our environmental commitments and nuclear materials challenges; supplies products and services necessary to maintain the nation’s nuclear deterrent; secures nuclear materials to prevent unwanted proliferation; and transforms nuclear materials into assets and stable wasteforms. The SRNS workforce is highly capable, engaged, and adaptable to meet existing and expanding missions. SRNS employees apply superior expertise and innovative solutions to complex and challenging national and global issues. We have the knowledge to address a range of national and international nuclear issues. We make the world safer – and you can, too.
Job Family
Science, Math & Technology
Discipline
Microscopist
Career Level
P4
Salary Range
$101,328 - $147,168
Note for Salary
This is the range within which SRNS expects the majority of qualified candidates would enter this role if offered. Actual offers may be more or less than the amounts shown depending on candidate’s qualifications, experience, internal equity, and other factors.
Job Family Description
Science, Mathematics & Technology roles encompass a broad spectrum of STEM expertise dedicated to the SRS mission operations support, scientific research, technical applications, advancement of scientific principles, mathematics, and statistical applications. Professionals in this field may conduct research, analyze data, perform laboratory methods in support of critical missions, and develop theories to solve complex problems in areas such as physics, chemistry, hydrogeology, environmental science, biology, and mathematics.
Discipline Description
Microscopists use advanced microscopy techniques to examine and analyze microscopic structures and materials, including nuclear fuel, reactor components, and radioactive particles. They study samples to identify defects, microstructural changes, or contamination that could affect nuclear operations or safety. Microscopists collaborate closely with engineers, physicists, and safety inspectors to provide detailed insights and support decision-making regarding maintenance, operations, and safety protocols within a facility.
Some Typical Duties & Responsibilities Include
Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) is seeking a Senior Electron Microscopy Scientist to assist in the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility’s Materials Characterization laboratories. This position will play a primary role in the startup and operation of electron microscopy capabilities in multiple facilities for this major new site mission. You will primarily assist with the startup, commissioning, and operation of multiple Electron Microprobes. Ideally, you would also assist with the startup, commissioning, and operation of a Plasma Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscope. As one of the initial team members, you will have significant input into the lab's method development, operations, and organizational development.
This position will have authorities and responsibilities in the following areas:
- Serve as a Subject Matter Expert on the electron microscopy team to support method development, operation, data analysis and associated sample preparation operations.
- Serve as the primary Subject Matter Expert for operation of the Electron Microprobe and associated data analysis.
- Lead and/or assist in developing procedures and training for laboratory sample management, sample preparation, and characterization of materials.
- Collect and analyze data and prepare technical reports.
- Demonstrate creative ability by solving technical problems.
- Provide mentorship to less-experienced staff.
- Assume technical responsibility for one or more related phases of a program.
- Engage with other Engineers/Scientists performing related technical work.
- Interface between various disciplines including program managers, project management and engineering design authorities.
- Work with Production Agencies to ensure operational consistency between laboratories for key methods. This position will have significant coordination efforts with LANL, LLNL, and the SRPPF Project group.
- Frequent travel to technical conferences and meetings with DOE NNSA Lab, Plants, and Sites partners. Travel up to 25% could be expected.
- 712.11. These requirements include ongoing drug and alcohol testing, as well as periodic medical and psychological evaluations.
- Master’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineer, Geology or other relevant Science/Engineering field with at least 8 years of experience.
- Proven fundamental understanding of electron microscopy characterization techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy and Electron Microprobe.
- Hands-on experience collecting and analyzing data using Scanning Electron Microscopes and Electron Microprobes.
- Familiarity and hands-on experience with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and Wavelength-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (WDS)
- Proven experience with X-ray microanalysis data analysis and technical report writing skills.
- Ph.D. in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineer, Geology, or other relevant Science/Engineering field with 5 years of experience.
- Advanced knowledge of theories, concepts, principles, and techniques in Electron Microscopy and X-ray Microanalysis.
- Advanced knowledge and hands-on experience with Electron Microprobes.
- Fundamental to advanced knowledge with Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy is desired. Proven ability to operate a PFIB/SEM through significant hands-on experience.
- Previous DOE production facility or national laboratory experience.
- Experience in laboratory design/standup supporting material characterization data production efforts.
- Understanding of laboratory waste handling concepts, ideally with experience in radioactive waste generation.
Professional
Career Band Description
- Roles in this band apply the knowledge in area of expertise to analyze information; design and develop new approaches, methodologies and processes; and, provide professional advice and guidance to others in accordance with professional quality standards
- Applies a theoretical knowledge-base to work to achieve goals through own work
- Characterized by specific functional expertise typically gained through formal education
- May provide guidance to others as a project manager using technical expertise
Requires specialized expertise in field/discipline acquired through significant years of experience, leading others to solve complex problems, working independently with guidance in only the most complex situations; may lead functional teams or projects.
Security Clearance Information
SRNS is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug & alcohol test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, criminal records, and employment history, and education verifications. Positions with SRNS may require applicants to obtain and maintain a DOE L or Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. Factors such as pre-employment background review results, dual citizenship status, and unpaid and/or unfiled taxes may impact your ability to obtain a security clearance. This list of factors is not exhaustive; pre-employment information and security clearance requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Clearance Required To Perform Job
Q
What We Offer
Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) Benefits team is constantly assessing trends in the benefits area to provide the best possible services to our workforce. We ensure high quality outcomes of each service provider by consistent monitoring and oversight for positive results. We also negotiate cost effective premiums that will meet the needs of our evolving workforce. Your SRNS Health & Welfare benefits provide peace of mind and financial protection for you and your family. Some of the Benefits offered to full service employees include:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance options
- Critical Illness and Accident Insurance
- Employer paid life insurance with buy up options
- Employer paid Short Term and Long Term Disability
- 401(k) with Employer Match
- Various wellness programs
- Paid Time Off and Holidays
- Discounts and other supplemental benefits
Standards of Excellence
The SRNS Vision States That We Will "be The Standard Of Excellence In Nuclear Materials Management By Delivering Knowledge, Innovation And Experience." This Is Underpinned By The Recognition That Everything We Do Relies On Our Employees And How They Demonstrate The SRNS Standards Of Excellence Every Day. Built On The Foundation Of Safety And Security, Each Employee Is Expected To
Model Excellence by demonstrating the highest standards and values in work and promoting them within the organization and to the customer.
Deliver Results by meeting customer expectations to ensure objectives, goals and deadlines are met while being good stewards of resources.
Energize and Recognize Teams through growing organizational strength and recognizing continued excellence.
Build Relationships by developing relationships with coworkers and customers to foster a respectful workplace.
Shape the Future by creating a diverse, innovative and integrated workforce that fosters mission success and company growth.
Note
SRNS is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. SRNS utilizes the Disabled Veteran Enhancement Opportunities program which is aimed at improving employment opportunities for disabled veterans at the Savannah River Site (SRS). SRNS is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, you may contact us by phone at 803-952-8207, or by e-mail at hrrecruiting@srs.gov.
24-Jun-2026
Salary : $101,328 - $147,168