Idaho National Laboratory Announces Workforce Reduction

Layoffs come as national lab adapts to shifting priorities

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Idaho National Laboratory (INL), the region's largest employer, has announced an Involuntary Separation Program that will reduce its current workforce staffing levels. The laboratory stated the move is part of an effort to align its workforce with the needs of the nation and support the Department of Energy's priorities.

Why it matters

As one of the largest employers in the region, any layoffs at INL can have significant economic impacts on the local community. The laboratory's mission and workforce are also critical to supporting the nation's scientific research and energy priorities.

The details

INL spokeswoman Sarah Neumann stated that Battelle Energy Alliance (BEA), which manages the laboratory, has determined the need to reduce current workforce staffing levels through the Involuntary Separation Program. However, the laboratory did not provide specifics on the number of people affected by the layoffs.

  • The layoffs were announced on February 11, 2026.

The players

Idaho National Laboratory (INL)

A U.S. Department of Energy research and development national laboratory located in Idaho Falls, Idaho. It is the region's largest employer, with over 6,400 engineers, researchers and support staff as of February 2025.

Battelle Energy Alliance (BEA)

The organization that manages and operates Idaho National Laboratory on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy.

Sarah Neumann

A spokeswoman for Idaho National Laboratory.

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What they’re saying

“BEA is continuously adapting and aligning Idaho National Laboratory's workforce to meet the needs of the nation and to support the Department of Energy's priorities.”

— Sarah Neumann, INL Spokeswoman (localnews8.com)

What’s next

The laboratory stated it would not be releasing additional information about the number of people affected by the layoffs at this time.

The takeaway

The workforce reduction at Idaho National Laboratory, the region's largest employer, highlights the ongoing need for national laboratories to adapt their operations and staffing to align with shifting federal priorities and funding. The impacts of these layoffs will be closely watched by the local community.