Lab Analyst

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Location: On-site - Wilmington, NC - USA

Contract Length: 6 months

Job Summary:

The Lab Analyst plays a crucial role in conducting testing and analytical functions within a laboratory supporting a nuclear fuel production facility. Responsibilities include reagent preparation, sample analyses, instrument calibration and troubleshooting, data management, and operation of analytical instrumentation. The role involves analyzing uranium and other materials used in fuel production while maintaining compliance with industrial and nuclear safety guidelines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform routine laboratory analyses in controlled radioactive material areas.
• Conduct mass spectrometric analyses using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) to determine isotopic contents and elemental composition of materials.
• The Lab Analyst must be able to work with acids, bases, solvents, radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials using appropriate personal protective equipment and must demonstrate a clear understanding of Industrial Safety and Nuclear Safety guidelines and safe practices.
• The Lab Analyst must be able to use precision laboratory techniques such as pipetting, titrating, analytical weighing’s, making quantitative transfers, and preparing volumetric dilutions.
• The Lab Analyst must be able to operate the laboratory information management system (LIMS) and the instrument control computers that are routinely used for collection, analysis, storage, and retrieval of data.
• The Lab Analyst must be able to monitor lab equipment performance and respond to out-of control/ alarm conditions, carry out preventative maintenance activities, recognize equipment malfunctions, and accomplish simple repairs or corrections on a continuing basis.
• The Lab Analyst must be able to perform mathematical unit conversions, interpret and understand complex instruction manuals, engineering drawings and schematics, and interactive software programs.
• The Lab Analyst must be able to prepare reagents and working standards using appropriate laboratory techniques and knowledge of proper reference material storage requirements.
• The Lab Analyst must demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills as interaction with colleagues and customers is an essential part of the job.
• The Lab Analyst must demonstrate the ability to work in a team environment.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a physical science from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 18 months of experience in a commercial or military laboratory environment.
• At least one (1) year of experience in one or more of the following areas:

Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry

Ion chromatography

Liquid or gas chromatography

Metallurgical analyses

• Willingness to work various shift arrangements and overtime as needed to ensure continuous lab coverage.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of standard analytical laboratory methodologies, including titrimetry, gravimetry, and spectrophotometry.
• Previous experience in the nuclear industry or working with uranium.
• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Experience in electronic data transfer and digital image analysis.
• Background in production support laboratories.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to pass a Nuclear Safety Training Test.
• Capability to work with hazardous materials, including acids, bases, solvents, and radioactive substances, while following appropriate safety protocols.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented environment and effectively communicate technical information.