Mass Spectrometry Specialist (TIMS)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that serves as the world's nuclear inspectorate, established to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. The IAEA was founded in 1957 and operates in over 180 countries, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to ensuring nuclear safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization focuses on developing and implementing safeguards to ensure that nuclear materials are not diverted from peaceful uses and that there are no undeclared nuclear activities. The IAEA's mission includes providing technical assistance, conducting inspections, and fostering international cooperation in the field of nuclear energy.

Job Overview:
The Mass Spectrometry Specialist (TIMS) is a critical role within the IAEA's Department of Safeguards, specifically in the Nuclear Material Laboratory (NML). This position involves the measurement and analysis of safeguards inspection samples using thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS). The specialist is responsible for ensuring high sample throughput, maintaining quality control, and adhering to timeliness goals in the analysis of actinides such as uranium, plutonium, thorium, and americium. The role requires a combination of technical expertise, coordination skills, and the ability to troubleshoot complex analytical processes. The incumbent will work closely with a team of professionals, including chemists and radiometrists, to enhance analytical techniques and ensure compliance with quality management systems. The position also involves exposure to radioactive materials, necessitating medical clearance and adherence to safety regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Mass Spectrometry Specialist (TIMS) will be responsible for the following duties:

• Provide technical expertise in the TIMS analysis of samples containing actinides.
• Coordinate the workflow of field samples and quality control samples to ensure analytical results meet established timeliness and quality requirements.
• Oversee preventive maintenance and troubleshooting of analytical equipment, collaborating with manufacturers and service engineers.
• Ensure compliance with the SGAS Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2015) in all analytical and laboratory processes.
• Participate in team efforts to improve mass spectrometry techniques and contribute to the implementation of new methodologies developed by Member States.
• Identify and communicate the need for upgrading or replacing analytical equipment, preparing technical specifications and evaluations for new instruments.
• Maintain current knowledge in mass spectrometry and engage with the scientific community to enhance analytical capabilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree in physical sciences, analytical chemistry, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of five years of practical experience in high-accuracy isotope analysis using mass spectrometric methods is required. Alternatively, candidates may have five years of experience in a radiochemical laboratory, combined with at least two years of experience in mass spectrometric isotope analysis. Knowledge of Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry or multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is essential. Experience working with radioactive materials is considered an advantage. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory, while knowledge of other official IAEA languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish) is an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's Degree in physical sciences, analytical chemistry, or a closely related field. This foundational education is critical for understanding the principles and practices of analytical chemistry, particularly in the context of nuclear materials and safeguards.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in high-accuracy isotope analysis using mass spectrometric methods. Candidates may also qualify with five years of experience in a radiochemical laboratory, provided they have at least two years of experience specifically in mass spectrometric isotope analysis. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the incumbent can effectively perform the complex analyses required for safeguards verification and monitoring.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the IAEA. Additionally, knowledge of other official IAEA languages such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish is considered beneficial and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $70,212, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. A variable post adjustment currently amounts to US $28,085, along with dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, relocation, and repatriation expenses. Employees are entitled to six weeks of annual leave, home leave travel, and are covered by a pension plan and health insurance. The IAEA is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries. The appointment is subject to a satisfactory medical report, and staff members may be assigned to any location as per the IAEA's rotation policy.