INL directs all 6,400 employees to work on-site, virtual positions being phased out
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IDAHO FALLS — The Idaho National Laboratory announced Thursday that all Battelle Energy Alliance employees will be required to work “in-person in labs and offices” in the coming months.
The directive impacts 2,350 current virtual and hybrid employees, according to an INL spokeswoman.
“After careful consideration and in alignment with our organizational goals, we believe that collaboration, innovation and a strong sense of community are best fostered when we are physically present together,” INL Director and Battelle Energy Alliance President John Wagner wrote in a letter sent to all employees.
Wagner announced the change during a town hall meeting Thursday morning.
Hybrid workers will need to return to their offices by June 9, and virtual employees are required to return by Jan. 5, 2026.
Wagner acknowledged the benefits of working virtually or in a hybrid model, but continued, “We are confident that the benefits of face-to-face interactions, spontaneous discussions and the synergy created by working side by side are crucial to our long-term success.”
Currently, 1,500 employees are hybrid in the office at least two days per week, and 850 are fully remote — 400 of which live out-of-state.
“The laboratory plans to implement this policy in a phased approach to allow staff members to adjust gradually and minimize disruption to our mission,” INL spokeswoman Sarah Neumann confirmed. “This change is not being implemented to reduce our workforce.”
The directive applies only to Battelle Energy Alliance employees — not to Idaho Environmental Coalition or Naval Reactors Facility personnel.
The policy rollout allows time for out-of-state employees to make necessary living arrangements to return to the laboratory.
American with Disabilities Act exemptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis, but most employees must return to their offices by the deadlines.
As more than 6,400 employees return to work in-person, Neumann acknowledged Battelle Energy Alliance may face some growing pains. She said the lab is currently evaluating its space utilization and options.
The directive comes after President Donald Trump’s executive order, issued on Jan. 20, mandating all federal employees return to in-person work.
“That hasn’t trickled down to the lab — that executive order,” Neumann said. “My understanding is that this decision is being made just because our lab director thinks it’s in the best interest of our employees and the lab as a whole.”
