Duties

The technical officer has responsibility for all aspects related to the operation, calibration and routine maintenance of various analytical instruments and laboratory equipment under his/her control, including the preparation of associated analytical reagents and standards needed for the separation and determination of stable and radioactive chemical species in samples originating from various CRL projects, facilities and site operations. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Separation and quantitative determination of various stable (e.g. Hg) and radioactive (e.g. U) elements in diverse sample matrices
• Preparation of samples and wet chemistry involving digestion of samples
• Development, testing and application of separation and purification techniques such as co-precipitation, solvent extraction, ion exchange and chromatography
• Operation of a variety of modern analytical instrumentation that may include UV-visible spectrophotometers, HPLC, ion chromatographs, mercury analyzer and a multinuclear NMR spectrometer.
• Participation in the planning and organization of the section's activities
• Preparation of relevant documentation of all processes and methods employed (with an emphasis on Quality Assurance/Quality Control requirements)
• Maintenance of appropriate quality records in accordance with established Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) protocols
• Selection and purchase of lab supplies, with approval from Section Head or Branch Manager
• Interacting with customers, both internal and external to the company.
• Preparation of routine progress and technical reports (including standard analysis reports)
• Provision of technical support to other Analytical Chemistry Facilities and/or projects on an as needed basis.
• Providing assistance to the Section Head or Branch Manager when requested.

Qualifications:

• Science degree or diploma, preferably in analytical, inorganic or process chemistry or a related field, from a recognized university or technical college OR a high school diploma with a minimum of 3 years practical experience in a similar position (adequacy to be determined by the Branch Manager).
• Basic knowledge of inorganic analytical chemistry, with practical experience in standard chemical laboratory practices involving sample handling, preparation and wet chemistry separation techniques.
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of analytical instruments (UV-Visible spectrophotometer, liquid chromatographs), is desirable.
• Practical experience in the development of analytical methods, in the application of standard QA/QC procedures, in calculating and interpreting analytical data (elemental concentrations) is desirable.
• Knowledge of common system operating platforms and data handling software and computers with some basic knowledge and understanding of statistical analyses of data and propagated uncertainties is desirable.
• Experience with troubleshooting chemical processes would be a definite asset for this position.

AECL has an Employment Equity Program and encourages applications from women, Aboriginal Peoples, visible minorities and persons with disabilities. AECL provides a smoke-free workplace.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.