Lab Analyst

Job Description Summary

Chemet Lab Analysts perform various duties necessary in carrying out the testing and analytical functions of the Lab, including but not limited to training, directing and overseeing the work of others when needed. They frequently work without direct technical supervision and are responsible for a wide variety of Lab operations including: sample analyses, instrument calibrations, equipment troubleshooting and maintenance support, mathematical calculations, data management and record keeping, reagent preparation, supply inventories, and housekeeping and safety. Work involves use of manual and automated instruments/devices often controlled by microprocessors and computers. Detecting and diagnosing equipment malfunctions is a critical part of the job. A thorough understanding of the technical content of the work is required to enable analyses to make interpretations and evaluations when necessary.

Job Description

Roles and Responsibilities - Include but not limited to:

Essential Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Lab Analysts must obtain certification for all assigned job functions and demonstrate the capability to perform at least three (3) of the tasks identified within the relevant sub-specialty category, as well as any unique or newly introduced analyses and tests as they arise. Lab Analysts is also responsible for maintaining active certification by completing all required re-certification activities as they become due.

• Mass Spectrometric Analyses

Determine the isotopic content of uranium by wet chemical preparation techniques and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS). Determine the total uranium content of selected process solutions as well as the concentrations of trace elemental impurities in uranium materials using ICPMS techniques and equipment. Operation of ICPMS units requires a basic understanding of mass spectrometry, radiofrequency plasma generation systems, and the ability to recognize electronic and sample introduction problems as they develop.

Successful operation of these systems also requires the ability to interrogate, enter commands and initiate subroutines in host computers and complex equipment process control devices. For proper system troubleshooting, an understanding of the operational logic sequences and control devices for each lab system is necessary.

• Wet Chemistry Analyses

Determine by various Wet Chemistry methods (titrimetric, gravimetric, colorimetric, chromatographic, etc.) the chemical composition and impurities in uranium materials and various metallic samples. Knowledge of standard Wet Chemistry techniques and equipment is essential.

Set up, operate and troubleshoot vacuum equipment and associated gas analyzer systems used for determining the volatile contents of fuel pellets and the pressure/composition of the atmosphere inside fuel rods. Knowledge of gas chromatographs and vacuum systems and their troubleshooting and maintenance is essential.

Determine various element concentrations in uranium oxide and metal samples using Horiba analyzers or other analytical devices. Operation and maintenance of this equipment requires a working knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems including induction furnaces, gas manifolds, power supplies, etc.

• Environmental Analyses

Perform a wide variety of determinations using several different analytical techniques to assure compliance with regulatory standards regarding employee safety and environmental protection. Extreme accuracy and precision in analytical technique and record keeping is required.

• Metallography/Ceramography

Perform precision grinding, polishing, etching and staining techniques to produce test sample surface finishes representative of the true microstructures of materials. Evaluations require a thorough understanding of each microstructural characteristic such as degree of carbide precipitation or intergranular attack, grain-size, inclusion content, porosity, hydride orientation, material bonding, eutectics, etc. Using a metallograph or microscope, make highly precise measurements on ceramic and metal sample specimens. Using ceramographic preparation procedures and evaluation techniques, identify different phases, voids and grain sizes in sintered uranium fuel pellets. Knowledge of proper metallurgical terminology in the preparation of test reports is essential. Documenting photographs must be identified, be sharp in detail and taken at a magnification that can relate reported characteristics.

• Mechanical Testing

Using several different types of tensile test equipment, determine yield and ultimate strengths, percent elongation and reduction of area in various materials and alloys. Specially designed tensile, bend and compression tests are also performed on numerous manufactured parts. Perform micro indention hardness testing on various types of metal specimen. Required skills and knowledge include: abilities to determine test strain rate, to calibrate test furnaces, to interpret stress-strain curves; standardize equipment; experience working with liquid flow meters, pressure gages, temperature recorders and conductivity, pH and oxygen meters.

• Corrosion Testing

Perform aqueous and super-heated steam corrosion evaluations on metallic parts. Evaluations require chemical preparation of parts to exacting standards, make precise weight and dimensional measurements and operate complex high temperature, high pressure equipment. Must have knowledge of thermocouple standardization practices of furnaces and high-pressure piping and pumps, operate programmable furnaces, and utilize complex electrical controllers and data handling devices. Must standardize and repair oxygen, hydrogen, pH and conductivity gauges. Must respond quickly and exactly to unexpected equipment changes and/or failures. Mechanical activities include minor equipment adjustments and repairs.

• LIMS programming

Demonstrate a strong understanding of relational databases and how they interface with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). Possess hands-on experience in LIMS configuration, customization, and workflow programming to support laboratory testing, data management, and reporting needs. Responsibilities include developing and maintaining LIMS modules, debugging and troubleshooting system processes, and ensuring data integrity and compliance with laboratory quality standards. The role also involves managing user accounts and access control, coordinating LIMS updates and patches, creating or modifying SQL queries for data extraction and optimization, and providing technical support and training to laboratory personnel. Experience with general system administration and a strong attention to detail are essential to ensure smooth and compliant operation of the LIMS environment.

2. Operation of laboratory mechanical equipment common to sub-specialty area such as centrifuge, vacuum pump, oven, gas regulator valves and waste sump pumps or cut off machines, drill press, grinders and metrology tools is required.Problem identification and troubleshooting of this equipment is necessary.

3. Use of proper precision laboratory techniques such as pipetting, titrating, analytical weighings, making quantitative transfers, and preparing volumetric dilutions is required.Techniques such as sample encapsulation, heat-treating, hardness testing, chemical and thermal etching, and digital image analysis are also essential.

4. The Lab Analyst must be able to operate the laboratory information management system (LIMS) and the instrument control computers of a variety of types that are routinely used for the collection, analysis, storage, and retrieval of data from various reference standards and process samples run throughout the lab.Analysts must be capable of utilizing complex electrical controllers, data handling devices, and computers.

5. In order to maximize support to shop operations, the Lab Analyst is required to progress in knowledge of appropriate production-floor processes.At a minimum, the importance of routine lab samples in process control and product acceptability must be clearly understood.

6. Monitoring all lab equipment performance and responding to out-of-control/alarm conditions, carrying out preventative maintenance activities, recognizing equipment malfunctions and accomplishing simple repairs or corrections must be performed on a continuing basis.This work requires the ability to read, interpret, and understand complex instruction manuals, engineering drawings and schematics, and interactive software programs.

7. Accurate recording of process sample and standards data in manual and computer based logs for reliable distribution of this data to others is an essential part of the job.Conversion between metric and English measurement systems may be required as part of test evaluation and/or data reporting.

8. The Lab Analyst must participate in the maintenance of a current spare parts and supplies inventory.This activity includes routine checking of stock levels, placing material requests, making on site trips to get supplies, and recommending changes in stock levels or items.

9. Preparation of reagents and standards using appropriate laboratory techniques and knowledge of proper reference material storage requirements are routine parts of the job for all Analysts and may constitute the prime responsibilities for some Analysts.

10. The Lab Analyst must be responsible for keeping the laboratory facility neat and orderly in accordance with good housekeeping practices and participating in regular facility inspections.

11. Analysts must have excellent verbal and written communication skills because frequent interaction with requestors of lab services is required.

12. Industrial and nuclear safety rules and safe practices must be observed at all times. The Lab Analyst is responsible for keeping current his/her personal safety training. Questions and concerns about safety issues must be communicated immediately to lab management's attention.

13. Performance of other duties not covered by this job description but within the scope of the lab's objectives (e.g. method development, capability studies, reviewing and revising procedures, training and overseeing other analysts, etc.) may be required.

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS:

1. A baccalaureate degree in chemistry or a physical science is required.

2. A minimum of eighteen (18) months of laboratory work experience, or equivalent experience outside an academic institution, is required. The experience must include responsibilities involving mechanical and electronic equipment troubleshooting, as well as demonstrated ability to correctly interpret and utilize instrument manuals, equipment drawings, and diagnostic procedures.

3. Demonstrated experience with and strong knowledge in at least three of the following areas is required:

• ICP mass spectrometry
• Ion chromatography

• Liquid or gas chromatography
• Metallurgy, metallography, and/or ceramography
• Environmental tests
• LIMS programming

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be 18 years or older.
• The Lab Analyst job functions require duties that are routinely performed within radioactive material controlled areas. Must be able to pass a Nuclear Safety Training Test.
• Working with acids, bases, solvents, radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials is necessary and routine.
• Demonstrated understanding of complex mathematical and chemical equations is required.
• Ability to lift weights up to 45 pounds to shoulder level is required. Must pass applicable quality control vision (Ishihara) test requirements. Must be able to safely handle hazardous chemicals and equipment.
• Must be able to use computers.
• Must be willing to take a drug test as part of the selection process.
• Must be willing to submit to a background investigation as part of the selection process.
• Must be willing to complete a written assessment of knowledge as part of the selection process.
• This role is restricted to U.S. persons (i.e., U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and other protected individuals under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)) due to access to export-controlled technology. GE will require proof of status prior to employment.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Computer Software.
• Demonstrated experience in electronic data transfer and/or digital image analysis is desirable.
• Prior nuclear plant work experience.

• Must be able to intermittently lift up to 45 lbs. Individually.
• Continuous visual concentration will be necessary to develop and maintain tolerance.
• Must be able to work continuous rotating shift work
• Must be able to work on weekends and holidays when necessary
• No relocation will be provided.
• Must be able to pass a nuclear safety training test.

GE offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Healthcare benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; access to a Health Coach, a 24/7 nurse-based resource; and access to the Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling, and referral services. Retirement benefits include the GE Retirement Savings Plan, a tax-advantaged 401 (k) savings opportunity with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and planning consultants. Other benefits include tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and paid time-off for vacation or illness.

General Electric Company, Ropcor, Inc., and in some cases their affiliates, each sponsor certain employee benefit plans or programs (i.e., is a "Sponsor"). Each Sponsor reserves the right to terminate, amend, suspend, replace, or modify its benefit plans and programs at any time and for any reason, in its sole discretion. No individual has a vested right to any benefit under a Sponsor's welfare benefit plan or program. This document does not create a contract of employment with any individual.

This role requires access to U.S. export-controlled information. If applicable, final offers will be contingent on ability to obtain authorization for access to U.S. export-controlled information from the U.S. Government.

Additional Information

GE Vernova offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE Vernova is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

GE Vernova will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable).

Relocation Assistance Provided: No

For candidates applying to a U.S. based position only:

*The Company pays a geographic differential of 110%, 120% or 130% of salary in certain areas.

This posting is expected to remain open for at least seven days after it was posted on December 03, 2025.

Available benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; access to Health Coach from GE Vernova, a 24/7 nurse-based resource; and access to the Employee Assistance Program, providing 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services. Retirement benefits include the GE Vernova Retirement Savings Plan, a tax-advantaged 401(k) savings opportunity with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and financial planning consultants. Other benefits include tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability benefits, life insurance and 12 paid holidays. New hires also two weeks of annual vacation (which may be pro-rated based on start date).

GE Vernova Inc. or its affiliates (collectively or individually, "GE Vernova") sponsor certain employee benefit plans or programs GE Vernova reserves the right to terminate, amend, suspend, replace, or modify its benefit plans and programs at any time and for any reason, in its sole discretion. No individual has a vested right to any benefit under a GE Vernova welfare benefit plan or program. This document does not create a contract of employment with any individual.

Client-provided location(s): Wilmington, NC

Job ID: GE_Vernova-1981251187

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Posted: 2025-12-04T18:31:45