Chemical Technician

Chemical Technician 

Location: Oak Ridge, TN  

Schedule: Full-Time 

FUNCTION 

The Chemical Technician will support Standard Nuclear’s chemical processing and materials production operations by operating, monitoring, and maintaining equipment used in sol-gel processing and chemical dissolution systems. This is a hands-on role involving solution mixing, reactor operation, particulate washing and drying, filtration, liquid waste handling, and general materials processing. 

Technicians will be cross-trained across multiple systems and will support operations in Standard Nuclear’s Oak Ridge facilities to ensure consistent production output. This position requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to follow procedures closely. Prior experience with the specific equipment or processes is not required — strong operators from chemical, industrial, or manufacturing environments are encouraged to apply. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

Sol-Gel & Dissolution Operations 

• Operate equipment used in sol-gel processing, including mixers, vibratory pumps, wash systems, heating/drying units, and filtration systems. 

• Prepare chemical solutions by measuring, mixing, and adjusting feed components according to established procedures. 

• Support dissolution processes involving powders, aqueous solutions, and controlled chemical reactions. 

• Perform washing steps using oxide solutions and rinsing equipment to clean or condition material batches. 

Chemical Handling & Process Execution 

• Handle chemical powders, solutions, and liquid waste streams following approved safety practices. 

• Monitor process parameters, system pressures, solution levels, temperatures, and flow rates. 

• Document batch data, equipment readings, and process deviations accurately. 

• Conduct routine cleaning, equipment resets, and system preparation between production runs. 

Equipment Operation & Troubleshooting 

• Operate pumps, valves, pneumatic systems, heaters, furnaces, filtration modules, and separation equipment. 

• Perform basic troubleshooting on mechanical and chemical processing systems. 

• Assist maintenance or engineering staff with system adjustments, repairs, or calibration activities. 

Safety, Quality & Compliance 

• Follow all Standard Nuclear environmental, health, and safety (EH&S) requirements, including hazardous material handling and PPE protocols. 

• Maintain accurate records in accordance with quality assurance procedures. 

• Support internal audits, inspections, and readiness reviews. 

• Adhere strictly to written procedures and report any deviations or safety concerns immediately. 

Cross-Training & Production Support 

• Train across multiple chemical processing areas to provide operational flexibility. 

• Support production operations across Standard Nuclear’s Oak Ridge facilities as needed. 

• Collaborate with engineering, quality, and operations teams to improve process consistency and efficiency. 

PREFERED QUALIFICATIONS 

(No degree required — candidates from manufacturing, chemical processing, or industrial operations are encouraged to apply.) 

Minimum Requirements 

• 3 years of experience in chemical processing, industrial manufacturing, or mechanical/process operations. 

• Ability to safely handle powders, solutions, pumps, mixers, and industrial processing equipment. 

• Familiarity with basic chemical handling and general industrial safety practices. 

• Comfortable working with wash solutions, liquid waste systems, and cleaning processes. 

• Ability to follow detailed procedures and record accurate operational data. 

• Ability to lift 50 lbs., work at heights, and work in environments involving heat, noise, or odors. 

• Ability to work in controlled or restricted areas with required PPE. 

Preferred Experience (Not Required) 

• Experience in sol-gel processing, wet chemistry, or materials processing. 

• Prior work with reactors, mixing systems, dry/wet separation equipment, or filtration modules. 

• Experience in plant start-up, new equipment commissioning, or scale-up environments. 

• Exposure to regulated operations (NQA-1, ISO, cGMP, etc.). 

• Lean/Six Sigma or continuous improvement familiarity. 

BENEFITS 

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance 

• Health Savings Account 

• Disability and Life Insurance 

• 401K Plan 

• Paid Time Off, Holidays 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

• Work is performed in chemical processing and industrial manufacturing areas. 

• PPE such as gloves, safety glasses, and respirators may be required. 

• Some work occurs in controlled or restricted-access environments involving powders and chemical solutions. 

Standard Nuclear embraces equal opportunity and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status. 
 
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.