Laboratory Technician

Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that works to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. Established in 1957, the IAEA has a mission to ensure that nuclear energy is used safely and securely, and to support global efforts in nuclear non-proliferation. The organization operates in over 180 countries and employs a diverse workforce of professionals dedicated to various aspects of nuclear science and technology. The IAEA's headquarters is located in Vienna, Austria, and it has regional offices and laboratories around the world, including the Office of Safeguards Analytical Services (SGAS) in Seibersdorf, which focuses on the analysis of nuclear material samples.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory Technician position is critical within the IAEA's Department of Safeguards, which functions as the world's nuclear inspectorate. The primary responsibilities of the Laboratory Technician include preparing and performing isotopic and elemental analysis of nuclear material samples using advanced techniques such as thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) and inductively-coupled-plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The role requires adherence to established procedures and protocols to ensure accurate measurements and compliance with the laboratory's ISO 9001:2015 quality management system. The Technician will also be responsible for monitoring instrument performance, maintaining laboratory safety standards, and ensuring the proper functioning of laboratory equipment. This position is essential for supporting the IAEA's mission to prevent the diversion of nuclear materials and to uphold international nuclear safety standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Laboratory Technician will be tasked with a variety of duties, including: preparing nuclear material samples for analysis, performing measurements using TIMS and ICP-MS, calibrating instruments, preparing filaments and labware, diluting and loading sample solutions, collecting data, reducing data, and reporting results. The Technician will contribute to quality management practices by updating and reviewing quality control charts, recording data in logbooks, participating in audits, and assisting with the updating of laboratory procedures. Daily operations of the TIMS laboratory will be supported, ensuring that safety requirements are met, and assistance will be provided in the operation of the ICP-MS laboratory. The Technician will also monitor instrument performance, perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot instrumental failures, and manage the inventory of laboratory consumables and spare parts, acting as a low-value procurement purchaser when necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, with post-secondary education or specialized training in analytical chemistry and inorganic mass spectrometry considered an asset. A minimum of five years of experience in precise isotope analysis, particularly using TIMS and/or ICP-MS, is required. Hands-on experience in the analysis of radionuclides, knowledge of metrology, and experience in troubleshooting TIMS and ICP-MS equipment are strong assets. Additionally, candidates should have experience in procuring laboratory supplies and possess excellent oral and written command of English. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a completed secondary education, with a preference for candidates who have pursued post-secondary education or specialized training in fields related to analytical chemistry and inorganic mass spectrometry. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complex processes involved in nuclear material analysis and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards in the laboratory.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in precise isotope analysis, ideally with a focus on thermal ionization mass spectrometry and/or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Candidates should demonstrate hands-on experience in the analysis of radionuclides and possess a solid understanding of metrology and uncertainties in measurements. Experience in troubleshooting laboratory equipment and procuring supplies will also be beneficial for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the IAEA. Knowledge of additional official IAEA languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at EUR 57,876, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Employees are entitled to six weeks of annual vacation, a pension plan, and health insurance. The recruitment process is conducted on a local basis, meaning that non-local candidates will only be considered if no suitable local candidates are identified. The IAEA is committed to gender equality and diversity in its workforce and adheres to the highest ethical standards in its recruitment practices. Candidates may be subject to testing as part of the selection process, and appointment is contingent upon a satisfactory medical report.