Job Description

INTRO
The Materials & Fuels Performance Testing Branch performs metallurgical examinations, material surveillance and cracking experiments of irradiated and un-irradiated reactor materials and fuel post irradiation examinations. The capabilities of the branch include failure analysis, fracture mechanics, delayed hydride cracking, environmentally assisted cracking and material surveillance. As a member of the Materials & Fuels Performance Testing Branch, the selected candidate will work with a team of experienced professional and technical staff responsible for R&D, principally in the area of nuclear reactor materials and fuels. This will involve the development of test programs through participation in industry-wide working groups. Programs will include testing of removed reactor components as well as development and testing of laboratory controlled specimens. In addition, he/she is expected to enhance the fundamental understanding of material properties for irradiated materials and fuels. Most of the work will include participation in contract R&D for third parties.

DUTIES
A self-motivated technologist is required to conduct day-to-day mechanical testing for fracture toughness, fatigue, delayed hydride cracking or fuel post irradiation examination related experiments. Typical duties include, but are not limited to:

• Execution of laboratory experiments, which includes (i) planning, design and set-up of experimental systems, (ii) conducting experiments and generating data according to plan, (iii) interpretation, storage and reporting of laboratory results, (iv) programming data acquisition systems, and (v) interfacing with branch professional staff and collaborators.
• Develop and maintain experimental facilities for performing mechanical and fracture mechanics tests in controlled environments (chemistry, temperature, pressure).
• Periodic handling and processing of small samples of radioactive materials.
• Participation in CNL, COG and commercial R&D programs as well as site support and component failure analyses on an as required basis.

Experimental conditions will range from ambient (i.e., room temperature and pressure) up to the high temperatures and pressures used in water cooled nuclear reactors. The work will also involve close interaction with other groups on site, particularly Surface Science and hot cell facilities.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A diploma or degree from a recognized technical college or university with a specialization in mechanical engineering technology, materials engineering technology, materials sciences, metallography, engineering, machining or related discipline.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Practical work experience in some combination of material testing, fatigue or delayed hydride cracking test methods, analytical sciences, scientific instrumentation, and designing experimental apparatus is required.
• A strong working knowledge of the maintenance and use of mechanical testing equipment i.e., load frame is essential.
• Any prior experience in materials science, zirconium metallurgy, in-situ measurement techniques (potential drop or acoustic emission), metallography, CAD, scientific instrumentation such as strain gauges, thermocouples, LVDTs, welding, LabView, and working with systems involving elevated temperatures and pressures would be an asset.
• Any prior experience in handling of irradiated material would be an asset.
• A sound knowledge of computers including: using and programmable data acquisition systems, processing of scientific data.
• A demonstrated commitment to safety, especially when dealing with chemicals, radioactivity and energized systems is absolutely essential.
• A proven track record for producing high quality work and the ability to communicate data through memoranda and reports.
• The ability to work in a team environment with good oral and written communication skills is absolutely essential, as is the ability to work to schedule.
• Experience in sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing and etching metal specimens would be an asset
• General knowledge of metallurgy, materials degradation phenomena, and failure analysis would be beneficial.

CNL is committed to providing an atmosphere free from barriers that promote equity, diversity and inclusion in achieving our mission. CNL welcomes and celebrates employees, stakeholders and partners of all racial, cultural, and ethnic identities.

CNL also supports a workplace environment and a corporate culture built on our Core Values: Respect, Teamwork, Accountability, Safety, Integrity and Excellence, which encourage equitable employment practices and career prospects inclusive of accommodations for all employees.

CNL is committed to being an equal-opportunity employer. If you require accommodation measures during any phase of the hiring process, please inform the Talent Acquisition Specialist with whom you are in contact. All information received in relation to accommodation requests will be kept confidential.

The Chalk River Laboratories site is located on the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe people. As an organization, CNL recognizes and appreciates their historic connection to this place. CNL also recognizes the contributions that First Nations, Metis, Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples have made, both in shaping and strengthening this community in particular, and this province and country as a whole.