Robotics Engineer Level 3/4

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Robotics Engineer. Our team works a 4x10 schedule located at the Materials and Fuels Complex with every Friday off.  The Nuclear Materials Performance (NMP) division performs post-irradiation examination (PIE) of structural materials and advanced characterization and testing of irradiated materials.  For this position, most work activities will be performed in the Structural Properties Laboratory.  This is a newly constructed hot cell that focuses on PIE and mechanical testing of structural materials.  

You will focus on robotics and their deployment in a radioactive environment.  This involves programming robots to perform standard functions, both autonomous and collaborative, development of tooling and techniques to increase robotic efficiencies, and machine learning/artificial intelligence associated with robotics.  

You will work with a multi-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers.

Responsibilities: 

• Support research activities remotely utilizing robotics.  
• Development of scripted programs for autonomous operations of robotics in a hot cell environment.  
• Collaborative operation of robotics
• Development of tooling and techniques to increase efficiencies with robotics.  
• Support operation of research equipment that utilizes robotics and involvement with experiments.  
• Work with a multi-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers on challenging work scopes.  
• Apply advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML), Large Language Models (LLMs), physics-informed machine learning, systems performance analysis, and/or sensor methodologies to increase robotic efficiencies. 
• Work with hot cell engineers to develop tooling and modifications to hot-cell equipment.  
• Support other research and engineering activities throughout the facility.  
• Adhere to INL policies and procedures.  
• Completion of qualifications associated with position within 1 yr.  
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Level 3: Bachelor’s degree in robotics data science, engineering, mathematics, computer science, physics, artificial intelligence, or related technical discipline and 5+ years of experience, or a master’s degree and 4+ years’ experience.
• Level 4: Bachelor’s degree in robotics data science, engineering, mathematics, computer science, physics, artificial intelligence, or related technical discipline and 9 years, or a master’s degree and 6 years  

Preferred: 

• Experience with cobots and their operation and programming.
• Experience with Universal Robots (Cobots)
• Knowledge of artificial intelligence and/machine learning process.  
• Engineering background of electronics and development/modification of tooling and equipment. 
• Experience with SolidWorks modeling software.
• Ability to design and work with 3D-printed fixtures, jigs, brackets and tooling.
• Ability to troubleshoot robot motion, positioning, sensors, tolling and hardware/software integration.
• Good understanding of robot safety, payload limitations, and load/moment considerations.
• Experience with EOAT (End of Arm Tools), grippers and cameras.

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 environment, which may include construction sites. 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 30 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 pay range for this position is: Level 3 ($95,256 - $195,288)/ Level 4 ($114,360 - $234,336). 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.

• Multi-Level: This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.

Benefits and Relocation

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

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

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 at [email protected] 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.