Uncertainty over budget cuts means job reductions at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory Director Thom Mason told staff yesterday that as many as 475 jobs could be lost, though the number will most likely be lower. Mason announced a “voluntary separation program” with financial incentives for employees who willingly leave their jobs.
That program is effective October 1st; employees can apply until November 14th.
Mason was not optimistic about how expected federal budget cuts will affect the lab. He predicts that ORNL’s budget could fall to $1.4 billion next fiscal year.
The budget was about $1.5 billion this fiscal year.