AIKEN, S.C. - At a traditional college career fair, students meet potential employers and describe their job qualifications.
A different dynamic was underway at the Savannah River Site (SRS) as the management and operating contractor Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) hosted its first “reverse career fair" at the Applied Research Center earlier this year.
Career counselors and professors from nine local colleges and universities met with SRNS employees to learn about internships and full-time positions available to students.
“I’ve been on the tour of SRS before, and I’m familiar with the site and its missions, but this event has given me a comprehensive overview of what companies here are looking for from students in terms of internships and long-term opportunities," said Corey Feraldi, director, Office of Career Services, University of South Carolina Aiken. “The Savannah River Site is so large that sometimes it’s hard to know exactly who does what. But now I have a better understanding of the application process, which will help me bridge that gap for our students."
The event kicked off with an introduction from SRNS President and CEO Stuart MacVean, who described a wide range of career paths available to prospective employees.
“We have jobs that range from janitorial and lawn care to operations and maintenance to engineering and the sciences, as well as teachers for our training department. And at the pace we’re hiring, the training needs are even higher," MacVean said. “Our work at the Savannah River Site has a tremendous impact not just for national security, but for global stability, and will continue for many generations, as we have new missions coming to us that are projected to last for decades into the future."
SRNS employee Michael Roeber was among the exhibitors. After starting his internship with SRNS Site Automation Engineering in January 2017, he became a full-time employee six months later after he graduated from Augusta University with a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
“I think an internship is a great way to go because it’s the best way to gain hands-on learning experiences," Roeber said. “Your group can get a feel for what you enjoy doing, while they observe what you’re capable of and how quickly you apply what you’ve learned. My advice for anyone starting an internship at SRNS would be to enjoy learning, ask questions and have fun. Work can be enjoyable."
Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy, Office of Environmental Management
