Careers @ MSU

Working/Functional Title

Research Automation Technologist II

Position Summary

Michigan State University (MSU) operates the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) as a user facility for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE-SC), supporting the mission of the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics. FRIB provides researchers with one of the most advanced tools of modern science to study rare isotopes, or short-lived nuclei not normally found on Earth. Hosting what is designed to be the most powerful heavy-ion accelerator, FRIB enables scientists to make discoveries about the properties of rare isotopes, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications for society, including in medicine, homeland security, and industry. User facility operation is supported by the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics as one of 28 DOE-SC user facilities. MSU’s nuclear physics graduate program is a top-ranked program nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report.

This position affords an exciting opportunity to become part of the world-class FRIB Laboratory that enables unique discovery opportunities in nuclear science.

Purpose: 

The Research Automation Technologist II – Isotope Harvesting Program will collaborate closely with the R & D team (50%) and operations team (50%), supporting their efforts in designing, fabricating operating and maintaining automated fluidic system relevant to isotope harvesting, quality control, and radiochemical separation/ purification processes improvement.

Major Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Coordinates and performs highly complex design, fabricate, assemble, operate, program, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain automated fluidic systems, encompassing pumps, valves, sensors, and control systems tailored for automatic sample collection and radiochemical separations in both aqueous and gaseous phases; additionally, code and apply relevant software and control interfaces for these fluidic systems. 
• Optimize fluidic system performance through the implementation of improvements or modifications, while also maintaining accurate SOPs/records documenting maintenance activities, system configurations, and troubleshooting procedures. 
• Collaborate with scientists and end-users to understand system requirements and provide technical support to make the relevant upgrades and changes in the automated systems. 
• Researches and/or devises new engineering concepts for incorporation into applications. 
• Prepares, organizes, updates and modifies documentation of fluidic systems, operations, and required computer software. 
• Stay updated with advancements in fluidic system automation, software, and control technologies. 
• Trains support staff and students in operational procedures, evaluates use performance, determines user access to instruments and schedules their use. 
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this job classification. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Strong willingness to learn and apply skills learned on the job.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate wise judgment based on facts.
• Strong understanding and familiarity of fluidic system principles, components, and automation concepts.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and system specifications.
• Knowledge of radiochemistry laboratory safety practices and adherence to relevant regulations.
• Excellent communication skills to communicate effectively and credibly, both verbally and in writing with all audiences.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suites.

Unit Specific Education/Experience/Skills

Knowledge normally acquired by completing a four-year college program in Electrical Engineering or Physics and significant course study in Chemistry; three to five years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in fabrication techniques, mechanical and electronic drafting, computer systems programming, audio, R-F, and digital electronics; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

• Have knowledge/ experience with the following:
  • General and analytical chemistry.
  • Analytical method development, validation, and quality control procedures.
  • Radioactive material handling.
  • Radiochemical separations (ion exchange, extraction chromatography, electrochemical, solvent extraction).
  • Working in a radiochemistry laboratory.
  • Remote handling, hot cell, glove box.
  • Production site where Quality Assurance and Quality Control are applied.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Please provide a cover letter and a resume. 

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

frib.msu.edu

Bidding eligibility ends April 23, 2024 at 11:55 P.M.