Organizational Unit:	Nuclear Spectrometry and Applications Laboratory Physics Section Division of Physical and Chemical Sciences Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications
Duty Station:	Seibersdorf, Austria
Issue Date:	5 May 2011
Application Deadline:	3 June 2011
Type of Appointment:	Fixed term (subject to a probationary period of 1 year)
CCOG codes:	2.J.02

Organizational Setting

The Physics Section, one of four Sections in the Division of Physical and Chemical Sciences in the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, is responsible for planning and implementing activities in the areas of (i) effective utilization of research reactors, (ii) fostering relevant R&D and applications using particle accelerators and related instrumentation, and (iii) plasma physics and fusion, in order to enable Member States to avail themselves of the benefits of nuclear sciences and technologies.

The Physics Section supports capacity building in basic nuclear science and related instrumentation in the above areas in interested Member States with a view to supporting the creation of infrastructure and development of human resources.

The Nuclear Spectrometry and Applications Laboratory (NSAL), which is part of the Physics Section, assists laboratories in Member States to improve effective utilization of nuclear spectrometry and related instrumentation through the provision of technical advice, training, calibration services, assistance with the modification and development of nuclear instruments and with new applications of nuclear spectrometry techniques in various fields, including energy related applications, environmental monitoring, industry, and the study of cultural heritage objects. The Laboratory is located at the IAEA's Laboratories in Seibersdorf, approximately 45 km south of Vienna.

The Laboratory Technician reports to the Unit Head of NSAL. Organizational context empowers the incumbent with opportunities to make proposals affecting the design and/or delivery of specialized processes.

Main Purpose

The Laboratory Technician develops and optimizes procedures for the preparation of biological, geological and environmental samples for various X-ray spectrometry methods; perform measurements and quantitative analysis by using XRF, TXRF and SEM-EDS, and to provide training in these areas; support maintenance and proper operational status of the analytical facilities available in the Nuclear Spectrometry and Applications Laboratory; propose updates and improvements related to the implementation of QA systems in Member States laboratories and act as QA Coordinator in the Nuclear Spectrometry and Applications Laboratory.

Working Relationships

The Laboratory Technician works with other staff in the NSAL to solve routine problems and learn new analytical techniques. She/he also provides training to fellows from developing countries, demonstrating sample analysis methods used in the NSAL.

NOTE: The incumbent will be considered to be a radiation worker and be subject to an appropriate programme of physical and special medical surveillance arranged by the IAEA.

Functions / Key Results Expected

Prepare and analyse different types of samples and standard materials by conventional X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF), total reflection XRF and SEM-EDS.
Develop and optimize sampling and sample preparation procedures for analysis and imaging through conventional and advanced micro analytical X-ray spectrometry techniques.
Provide training to fellows from developing countries on sample preparation techniques and on the use of the analytical facilities for different modes of X-ray spectrometry techniques.
Support the maintenance and proper operational status of analytical facilities available in the NSAL including X-ray sources, detectors and data acquisition systems.
Contribute to the implementation of the Quality Assurance (QA) system.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Good computer skills, including experience in the use of X-ray spectrometry software for data analysis and quantification.
Good knowledge and practical skills in sample preparation procedures for X-ray spectrometry techniques.
Knowledge of quality systems and quality assurance/quality control measures in a laboratory environment.
Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries and the ability to establish and maintain working relations in a multicultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Education and Experience

Completed secondary education. Post secondary studies in analytical chemistry or physics.
At least seven years of relevant working experience in sample preparation, preferably for X-ray spectrometry applications.
Research experience.
Experience in teaching and practical training in the field of sample preparation.
English test (Level 2) to IAEA standard. Good knowledge of both oral and written English essential. Knowledge of another official IAEA language (i.e. Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) an advantage.

Remuneration

The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at €38 791 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), six weeks' annual vacation, pension plan and health insurance.

How to Apply

Internal and external applicants need to complete an IAEA Personal History Form. Internal applicants are required to apply online at https://personnel.iaea.org. External applicants are required to apply online at http://recruitment.iaea.org. You can find more information about employment opportunities and working at the IAEA at http://www.iaea.org/About/Jobs. No e-mail or hard-copy application will be accepted. All applicants will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course. Applications received after the application deadline will not be considered. Applicants who do not comply with the aforementioned application guidelines or do not meet the essential requirements specified in this Vacancy Notice will not be considered.

Appointment is subject to a satisfactory medical report. Recruitment will be on a LOCAL BASIS only. Outside applicants are required to supply to the IAEA or to authorize it to seek all information relevant to their suitability for employment by the IAEA. Testing may be part of the recruitment process.

Applicants should be aware that IAEA staff members are international civil servants and may not accept instructions from any other authority. Staff members may be assigned to any location. The IAEA retains the discretion not to make any appointment to this vacancy, to make an appointment at a lower grade or to make an appointment with a modified job description or for shorter duration than indicated above.