Job Description:

About the Company:

QSA Global, Inc. specializes in supplying state-of-the-art gamma radiography and portable X-ray systems for non-destructive testing (NDT), as well as high-performance radiation sources used in oil well logging (OWL), industrial processes, and nuclear medicine. With over 100 years of organizational experience, we distinguish ourselves as leading experts in radiation source design and radioisotope solutions.

QSA Global, Inc. is part of ITW, a Fortune 500 diversified industrial manufacturer of value-added consumables and specialty equipment with related service businesses. The Company focuses on profitable growth with strong returns across worldwide platforms and businesses. The businesses serve local customers and global markets, with a significant presence in developed and emerging markets. 

Job Description:

QSA Global is seeking an Analytical Radiochemist to support the production, purification, and quality control of radioisotopes, including Ra-226 and Am-241. This role will focus on developing and executing radiochemical assays, conducting detailed radionuclidic and elemental analyses, and supporting process development for high-purity radionuclides used in nuclear medicine and space nuclear power applications. The materials you help produce will play a critical role in advancing cancer therapy and enabling the next generation of space exploration.

In addition to analytical responsibilities, the role will also contribute to the development of new processes for radioisotope separation and purification, as well as the development and production of radioisotope-based products. This position bridges analytical chemistry with radiochemical process engineering, supporting both R&D and manufacturing objectives.

This role is primarily laboratory-based (70%) with additional responsibilities in data analysis, method development, and technical reporting. You’ll work closely with a growing team of chemists and engineers. Examples of current projects include the development of processes to produce ultra-pure Ra-226 for Ac-225 production and Am-241 fuel forms for deep space radioisotope heater units.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience working with alpha, beta, and gamma-emitting radioisotopes, a strong foundation in separation chemistry, and deep proficiency with key analytical techniques and instruments, including ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and HPGe gamma spectroscopy.

Key Responsibilities:

Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of radioactive materials, with a focus on Ra-226 and Am-241, to support purification processes and product release.

Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation including gamma spectroscopy (HPGe), ICP-MS, and ICP-OES.

Conduct radionuclidic purity assessments, isotopic abundance measurements, and chemical purity analyses to ensure compliance with internal and customer specifications.

Evaluate customer specifications for radioisotope products, assess feasibility for meeting those specifications, and develop analytical and processing methods accordingly.

Collaborate on the development and validation of radiochemical methods for separation, assay, and quality control.

Perform laboratory-scale radiochemical separations using ion exchange, liquid-liquid extraction, and chromatographic techniques.

Support R&D, production, and QA/RA efforts related to radioisotope processing, purification, and products as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Prepare detailed technical documentation, including analytical reports, certificates of analysis (COA), lab notebooks, and quality records.

Maintain compliance with radiation safety procedures, NRC/Agreement State regulations, DOT requirements, and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) guidelines.

Qualifications:

Master’s or Ph.D. in Radiochemistry, Nuclear Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a closely related discipline.

2+ years of experience in a radiochemistry or nuclear analytical lab (industry, academic, or national lab setting).

Strong knowledge of radionuclide properties, decay mechanisms, and detection methods.

Familiarity with radium and/or actinide chemistry or related radioisotopes is highly desirable.

Hands-on experience with preparing, isolating, and manipulating radioisotopes in a laboratory or production environment, including equipment such as glove boxes, hot cells, fume hoods, and radiation detectors.

Proficiency with radiation detection instrumentation (alpha, beta, and gamma spectroscopy, dosimetry, well-counters, scintillation detectors, portable survey meters, etc.).

Experience with wet chemistry methods and radiochemical separation techniques.

Familiarity with regulatory compliance related to radioactive materials (NRC, IAEA, DOT, etc.).

Strong data analysis, troubleshooting, and documentation skills.

Effective collaboration in multidisciplinary teams, spanning R&D, production, RA/QA, and engineering design.

An entrepreneurial mindset, ready to use innovative approaches and think creatively to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.

What we offer:

At QSA Global and our parent company, ITW, we are deeply committed to our employees' professional growth and career advancement. Recognizing the potential in our team is a top priority, and we actively foster an environment that enables high-performing individuals to thrive and progress. Whether through leadership development programs, cross-functional projects, or promotions within QSA and across the diverse ITW businesses worldwide, we ensure that ambitious and talented team members have opportunities to enhance their skills and advance their careers. Our talent development initiatives are designed to align with our organizational goals and support your personal career aspirations, providing a clear path to success at every level of our global enterprise.

Enjoy competitive compensation and generous benefits, including health, dental, life, and long-term disability insurance, paid parental leave, 401(k) (with match), and a generous tuition reimbursement program. We believe in offering a comprehensive benefits package to ensure the well-being and peace of mind of our employees.

QSA Global is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel respected and valued. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.