Accelerator Research & Development Supervisor

Accelerator Research & Development Supervisor

Who we are…
We are a team of scientists, engineers, technicians, and innovators dedicated to changing the world by developing medical isotopes to treat and eradicate cancer. We believe in building an environment where collaboration, curiosity, and camaraderie thrive. We also enjoy darts, cornhole, ping-pong, chili cook-offs, and other fun events that makes our company a community where we make a life, not just a living.

Who you are…
You are a technically curious leader who enjoys solving complex accelerator challenges while helping others grow in their capability and confidence. You bring deep technical judgment, but you are just as comfortable coaching staff members, setting priorities, and creating clarity for a team. You are collaborative by nature and work well across disciplines to translate complex physics into practical solutions, test methods, and system improvements. You value thoughtful experimentation, strong documentation, and learning from both results and setbacks. You take ownership for team outcomes and create an environment where people feel challenged, supported, and connected to the larger mission. Words that describe you include curious, analytical, collaborative, grounded, encouraging, and accountable.

How you make an impact…
The Accelerator R&D Supervisor provides technical and people leadership for accelerator physics activities supporting the design, development, modeling, and performance characterization of Niowave’s superconducting electron accelerator systems. This hands-on supervisory role leads the day-to-day work and development of accelerator physics staff while maintaining active technical involvement in accelerator system performance. The Supervisor provides subject matter expertise, establishes and communicates technical priorities, and collaborates across Engineering, Accelerator MS&T, and Accelerator Production to advance accelerator capability and support effective transfer of new systems into commissioning and routine operation.

What you need to succeed…

• Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Accelerator Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and directly related experience

• 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in accelerator physics, accelerator development, beam physics, or closely related research and development

• Demonstrated expertise in one or more areas of accelerator physics, including beam dynamics and optics, superconducting accelerator systems, RF/microwave systems, beam diagnostics, magnet systems, vacuum systems, or accelerator controls

• Experience with the following:

  • Applying analytical, computational, and experimental methods to the design, development, characterization, or improvement of particle accelerator systems
  • Analyzing experimental and diagnostic data, interpreting results, and developing technically sound conclusions and recommendations
  • Translating accelerator physics concepts and requirements into practical system designs, experiments, test methods, or hardware solutions

• 3+ years of supervisory experience including day-to-day activities of a team of 6 or more with demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams, establish career development tracks, and succession planning

• Embraces and models the Niowave Core Values of Teamwork, Courage, Integrity, and Upright Zeal

• Develops and maintains good relationships, gains the confidence of others, and works effectively in a multidisciplinary matrix environment

  • Understands how to integrate into a new team/organization
  • Appreciates the current state of systems and processes and exercises sound judgment in proposing and implementing improvements
  • Understands personal communication and learning styles and adapts approach to connect effectively with others

• Displays excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills

• Possesses strong organizational and project management skills for self and teams

• Possesses a strong interest and ability to lead and develop staff members and teams

• Demonstrates a system-level thinking and integration mindset

  • Manages multiple priorities simultaneously while meeting deadlines
  • Demonstrates ownership and accountability for system performance and reliability outcomes within assigned scope

• Demonstrates strategic thinking with creative and excellent problem solving and decision-making skills with ability to critically interpret and use data to manage risk

  • Thinks critically under pressure for timely, appropriate responses

• Proven ability to effectively convey information, engage with trainees, and facilitate discussions

Great to have…

• Doctorate in Physics, Applied Physics, Accelerator Physics
• 15+ years of progressively responsible experience in accelerator physics, accelerator development, beam physics, or closely related research and development
• Advanced experience with superconducting electron accelerators, recirculating or multi-pass accelerator systems, or high-power electron beam systems
• Experience with the following:
  • Developing and validating beam dynamics or beam optics models using accelerator physics simulation tools
  • Design and application of beam diagnostics, magnetic beam transport systems, RF systems, and accelerator vacuum systems
  • Planning and executing beam studies, experimental campaigns, or performance characterization activities
  • Supporting the technical transfer of new accelerator systems or upgrades from research and development into commissioning or sustained operation
• 5+ years of supervisory experience including day-to-day activities of a team of 8 or more with demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams, establish career development tracks, and succession planning
• Familiarity with medical isotope production processes, radiation safety standards (e.g., ALARA principles), and regulatory frameworks

Other things to know…

• Full-time position
• The company’s standard operating hours are Monday thru Friday 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. with production-related activities requiring 24/7/365 shifts
• This position will have regular working hours during Monday thru Friday with an expectation of adjusting to working outside of the standard operating hours to meet technical objectives
• Niowave has multiple locations within the Lansing area and travel between locations is expected in the role

Please provide a cover letter specifically describing your expertise and leadership experience.