Career and Education

NSTX-U is the flagship fusion experiment at PPPL. The experiment requires synchronized operation of numerous high power one-of-a-kind subsystems. NSTX-U is located on PPPL campus D site which requires dedicated work planning and control, coordination of activities, and conduct of operations.

• As NSTX-U Chief Operating Engineer, provide oversight and coordination of a range of engineering technology subsystems and the associated operations staff to ensure safe and reliable operation of the NSTX-U fusion infrastructure and experiments.
• As D-Site Shift Supervisor, ensure proper coordination of work planning and control, system maintenance, system operations, and system upgrades across the facility.
• As part of Engineering Operations, participate in safety, design, procedures, training, and projects to provide experimental operations engineering and perspective.

A proud U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a longstanding leader in the science and innovation behind the development of fusion energy â” a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. With an eye on the future and in response to national priorities, PPPL also has begun a strategic shift from a singular focus on fusion energy to a multi-focus approach that includes microelectronics, quantum information science, and sustainability science. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to make their mark on our world. PPPL aims to attract and support people with a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and cultural viewpoints. We are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility and believe that each member of our team contributes to our scientific mission in their own unique way. Come join us!

NSTX-U experimental operations require synchronized operation of numerous high power one-of-a-kind subsystems, including vacuum, magnetics, electrical power, mechanical systems, nuclear shielding, access control, oxygen deficiency monitoring, and instrumentation and controls. The NSTX-U Chief Operating Engineer role provides oversight and coordination of a range of engineering technology subsystems and the associated operations staff to ensure safe and reliable operation of the NSTX-U fusion infrastructure and experiments. The D-Site Shift Supervisor role ensures proper coordination of work planning and control, system maintenance, system operations, and system upgrades across the facility. This Engineering Operations position will also participate in safety, design, procedures, training, and projects to provide experimental operations engineering and perspective.

Core Duties:

NSTX-U experimental operations require synchronized operation of numerous high power one-of-a-kind subsystems, including vacuum, magnetics, electrical power, mechanical systems, nuclear shielding, access control, oxygen deficiency monitoring, and instrumentation and controls.

Chief Operating Engineer (60%): perform experimental operations of the research facility per the Research Operations requirements in accordance with PPPL and NSTX-U policies, programs, procedures and training:

• Coordinate the morning startup of NSTX-U pressure, vacuum, electrical systems, etc. subsystems in preparation for NSTX-U operations.
• Coordinate operation of the device, including initiating each âœpulse."
• Ensure operations stay within safety basis parameters defined for the facility.
• Respond to fault conditions for NSTX-U operations and safety envelopes.
• Coordinate the evening shutdown of the facility (typically not the same shift as startup coordination).
• Coordinate system shutdown in the event of an off-normal event.
• Assure proper conduct of operations communications across the operating team.

D-Site Shift Supervisor (25%): perform the following in accordance with PPPL and NSTX-U policies, programs and procedures:

• Coordinate site maintenance, upgrade, and experimental operations activities.
• Monitor conduct of operations for D-site activities.
• Coordinate site-wide off-normal response with Emergency Services and other D-Site stakeholders.

Engineering Operations (15%): When not discharging these roles above, this individual will support other PPPL engineering, maintenance, and operations activities, including participation in reviews for safety, design, procedures, training, and projects to provide experimental operations engineering and perspective as needed. Complete all safety and operations training in a timely fashion.

Education and Experience:

• Minimum BS or equivalent in engineering, physics, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years coordinating interrelated processes in an industrial, research, or related (military, construction, etc.) environment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Basic knowledge of pressure systems, AC power systems required.
• Ability to work with a diverse array of individuals, from maintenance crews to research collaborators from international universities required.
• Demonstrated ability to manage simultaneous and disparate activities in an operations context required.
• Basic knowledge of nuclear shielding and health physics is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of basic conduct of operations principles and applications highly desirable.

Physical Requirements:

Engineering and Technical Work- will require standard office environment, meetings, as well as field support for the following typical activities required to support experimental operations:

• Computer & control panel operations with full mental concentration.
• Full hand, arm and leg mechanical dexterity and coordination.
• Full or fully corrected vision, correct depth and color perception, occasional close work, work in low light conditions.
• Moderate exertion, steps, and ladders.
• Routinely engaged in walking, standing or sitting.
• Exposure to dust, temperature excursions, humidity, low level radiation, noise, household and industrial chemicals, solvents and some fumes.
• Working near hand tools, powered hand tools, machine shop tools and rotating equipment.
• Working near moving vehicles, equipment, cranes, hoists, tractor, lifts and forklifts.
• Adequate hearing and speaking for good communication, alarm annunciation, announcements, operations, troubleshooting, telephonic and electronic communiqués and situational awareness in a construction or industrial environment.

Working Conditions:

Most work will be done in Control Rooms, at PPPL shops, and laboratories. Vendor visits may be required when supporting ongoing projects. Work will generally be day shift though 2nd shift work may be required depending on facility schedules. May involve work in confined spaces, use of fall protection, other job-specific PPE.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO IS THE LAW

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

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