Safeguards Inspector (Radioanalyst)

Organizational Context

The Department of Safeguards functions as the IAEA's global nuclear inspectorate, dedicated to preventing the proliferation of nuclear weapons. It develops and implements safeguards to ensure nuclear material is not diverted for peaceful purposes and that no undeclared nuclear activities exist. This role is situated within the On-Site Laboratory team at the Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant in Japan.

Job Purpose

The Safeguards Inspector (Radioanalyst) plays a crucial role in the analytical operations of the On-Site Laboratory (OSL) at the Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant in Japan. The primary purpose of this position is to conduct treatments and measurements on nuclear samples, essential for IAEA safeguards verification activities. This involves performing detailed analytical evaluations, implementing robust quality assurance and quality control measures, and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of results. The role directly contributes to the IAEA's mandate of verifying the peaceful use of nuclear material and preventing its diversion, thereby supporting global non-proliferation efforts.

Responsibilities

The Safeguards Inspector (Radioanalyst) will conduct radiochemical work on nuclear material samples, including dissolution, chemical separation (uranium/plutonium, fission products), and isotope dilution mass spectrometry. Responsibilities include sample processing within hot cells using manipulators and performing measurements with various analytical instruments like spectrometers and densitometers. The role involves analyzing and evaluating data, reporting results, and coordinating on-site analytical activities. Data verification, validation, and uncertainty assessments are critical. The inspector will implement nuclear material accountancy and QA procedures, troubleshoot deviations, and perform routine maintenance and calibration of analytical equipment. Additionally, the inspector will prepare and conduct safeguards inspections at nuclear facilities, collect verification information, and may work with radioactive materials, adhering to strict radiation safety regulations.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of experience in a relevant analytical field, preferably in laboratory operations or analytical method development, is required. Experience with handling uranium, plutonium, and other actinides, along with knowledge of related safety procedures, is essential. Practical experience with highly radioactive samples using hot cell manipulators is a strong asset.

Skills

Proficiency in radiochemical techniques, sample dissolution, chemical separation, and isotope dilution mass spectrometry. Experience with analytical instruments (spectrometers, densitometers). Data analysis, evaluation, and reporting. Quality assurance and quality control implementation. Equipment maintenance and calibration. Safeguards inspection procedures. Radiation safety protocols. Excellent oral and written English communication.

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