Department Manager for the Reactor Physics and Shielding

Nuclear Science and TechnologyIdaho Falls, ID

Posted August 26, 2025Reference ID: 23149

Description

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Department Manager for the Reactor Physics and Shielding department. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Idaho Falls facility with every other Friday off.
This role will report directly to the Division Director for (Nuclear Reactor Technologies) NRT.

Division Mission

The mission of the NRT Division is to:
- Provide leadership in advancing nuclear reactor technology.
- Deliver four key reactor programs: Pele, MARVEL, MCRE, and VALKRE.
- Conduct mission-focused research and development to support the commercial deployment of advanced reactors.
- Provide teams that can support research and development and deliver products that advanced reactor hardware for Space Fission and Defense customers

Department Responsibilities

The Reactor Physics and Shielding Department focuses on:
- Developing and using next-generation modeling and simulation tools for nuclear core physics research, development and analysis.
- Create a program to utilize the future INL criticality table for developing benchmark data sets for governmental and commercial applications.
- Applying tools and expertise to help the industry create advanced reactor designs.
- Recommending unique shielding solutions for advanced reactors on earth and in space.
- Providing analysis and SME (Subject Matter Expert) support to the federal government and commercial companies.

Manager Responsibilities

The Manager's core duties include:
- Formulating and communicating the department mission and vision in alignment with the strategic plan.
- Engaging in strong internal and external relationship management.
- Providing management direction and driving business development.
- Implementing departmental strategies aligned with the strategic plan, programmatic missions, and emerging opportunities.
- Leading and growing an organization of scientists, engineers, technical, and support staff.
- Provide professional development opportunities and provide performance management and staff feedback.

Goals and Strategic Plan

- Establish and implement a strategic plan to drive advancements in reactor physics and shielding analysis.
- Promote innovation and integration of new technologies within the department.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement and excellence in research and development.
- Enhance collaboration with industry, academia, and government entities to expand the department's reach and impact.
- Support professional growth and development of department staff through training and mentorship programs.

Key Roles

Leadership Role:
- Provide strategic direction and leadership to a growing team of scientists and engineers.
- Accountability: Deliver research outcomes, ensure compliance with DOE policies, and maintain departmental strategy aligned with laboratory objectives.

Education and Experience

Minimum Requirements:

A Master’s degree in nuclear science or engineering or related engineering field from an accredited institution and 5 years relevant experience.
Relevant experience (Managing R&D environments, experience in modeling and using simulation tools for nuclear core physics analysis, etc.).
Minimum of 2 years’ leadership experience.
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy "Q" clearance, which requires US Citizenship.

Desired Education/Skills Experience:

PhD preferred
5+ years' of demonstrated leadership experience in a technical reactor physics and shielding area

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Job Information:

The target pay range for this position is ($154,733 - $231,971) annually. The full pay range is ($105,516 - $269,052).
At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.
TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

Benefits and Relocation

Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match
Paid time off (personal leave)
Employee Education Program (tuition assistance)
Comprehensive Relocation Package
Benefit eligibility subject multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy’s mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world’s energy future and secure our nation’s critical infrastructure.
INL Mission
Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision
Our vision is to change the world’s energy future and secure our nation’s critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements
To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information
When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.

INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.