Plutonium Missions Careers for everyone. Your challenge awaits.
Many think you need to be a scientist to work at LANL. While we couldn't do our work without scientific and technical expertise, we offer a vast array of career opportunities for hundreds of supports staff with a variety of skills - including in our plutonium missions programs. Job opportunities include:
- Administration
- Construction
- Engineering
- Environment, Safety & Health
- Facilities
- Finance & Accounting
- Human Resources
- Information Technology
- Logistics
- Marketing & Communications
- Operations Support
- Postdoc
- Procurement
- Project Management
- Quality Assurance
- Science
- Security
- Warehouse Management
What are plutonium missions?
Los Alamos National Laboratory is home to the Plutonium Facility, known as PF-4, which is the nation's most modern plutonium science and manufacturing facility where we do everything from research and development for the nation's nuclear stockpile to making nuclear power sources for NASA deep space missions. More than a thousand employees support the work in PF-4, from scientists and engineers to administrative and human resources professionals, manufacturing and warehouse specialists, waste processing experts, safety and security personnel and more.
- Contribute to national security, space programs and new frontiers in science.
- Work at the Nation’s Plutonium Center of Excellence.
- Discover a friendly and collaborative culture.
- Choose from many disciplines (not just science and engineering).
- Enjoy our amazing campus and facilities.
- Explore life in beautiful Los Alamos, New Mexico.
What it’s like to work here More than just a job
At LANL, you have access to the brightest minds in the world, stimulating work and a rewarding national security contribution—no matter what your role is. A day in the life here is exciting, where there are always opportunities to learn what your colleagues are up to, from nuclear security to climate change, public health and more.
A unique setting
LANL’s Plutonium Facility, known as PF-4, is the nation’s most modern plutonium science and manufacturing facility and is the only fully operational plutonium facility with complete process and analysis capabilities in the nation. You’ll be inspired by our mission, our people and the scope and quality of our facilities.
Big benefits
LANL not only offers highly competitive compensation, but also great health insurance options, a best-in-class 401(k) with up to 6% matching and an additional 3.5% non-elective employer contribution, plus tuition assistance, relocation reimbursement and many other perks along the way.
Special security protocols
When it comes to security, we present a different set of requirements for employees, and we want you to be prepared. Our security measures are all in place to support and protect you, the Lab’s national security mission and our people.
Meet the people of Plutonium Missions
“I have two families. There’s my home family and there’s my work family—that’s what TA-55 is, one big family. And I strive to keep both safe because I love them both.”
Jerry is the group leader for environment, safety and health. His job is to carry out his program so the rest of the team has the tools to carry out the Laboratory’s mission.
“The products we produce in plutonium missions are one-of-a-kind; no one across the Department of Energy complex can do what we do. I love coming in to work every day and knowing I’m making a difference in our nation’s security.”
Stacy is a division leader in Actinide materials processing and power. She started at the Lab in 1994 as a student and is now leading a key scientific division in the plutonium facility.
“The people I’ve worked with have always been good at explaining new processes to me. They took the time to show me—not just tell me—how things work, and that has helped me to gain a good understanding.”
Sheldon makes working in a glovebox—the specialized container that allows workers to safely handle hazardous materials—easier and more efficient for his coworkers.
“There’s a job for everyone at LANL. I’d recommend working here to anyone—it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. LANL provides so much opportunity for growth; it’s a great experience to find yourself actually wanting to come to work. I see myself retiring from here.”
Jose is a research technician who came to LANL as a custodian after working at a big box retailer. Today, he supports material movement and processing.
“I think people are surprised by the number of different disciplines that LANL is looking to hire. Even though I’ve been here 12 years, I’m still hearing about new and different things all the time. The LANL culture is one that celebrates your personal and professional growth.”
Dustin coordinates projects, responds to emergencies and ensures safety requirements are met. His career at LANL started in the roads and grounds department.
“I would’ve never expected myself to wind up working at LANL and living in New Mexico, but I absolutely love it. My wife loves it. This is where our life is going to be.”
Mike’s military career served him well as he transitioned through jobs as a helicopter mechanic, drone pilot and law enforcement. At LANL, he works in materials research.
“My career has always been in manufacturing, but I thought outside the box and applied, which was a great opportunity. People should apply to LANL because there are many jobs that don’t require you to have a technical background.”
Denise is part of a team that verifies that design requirements for products manufactured by the Lab, but most of her prior career was spent in automotive manufacturing plants.
“LANL is a great place to work, with diverse possibilities and room for career growth. I came from an unrelated field but found a career that genuinely suited me. I am very appreciative of the knowledge I have gained over the years and the opportunities LANL has created for my family’s future.”
Thomas works at LANL’s transuranic waste facility. His transition from a career in the arts to nuclear waste management 12 years ago happened because of his solid work ethic.
“There is such a diverse range of opportunities here that don’t require a science or engineering background. LANL provides the knowledge and tools to be successful and truly takes care of you. Don’t let the job posting scare you—just describe your qualifications and go into the interview with confidence.”
Brendon joined LANL in 2021 after working in information technology. He’s now getting certified as a fissionable material handler to work in LANL’s plutonium facility.
Featured Groups:
Living the good life
Life in Los Alamos,
New Mexico
Enjoy a great life in the healthiest county in the U.S. Los Alamos and its neighboring residential community White Rock are surrounded by national forest lands, parks and endless adventure for hikers, mountain bikers, rock climbers, bird watchers, skiers and more. You can be on the trail within a few minutes of getting off shift. Some employees live in nearby communities such as Española, Santa Fe and Rio Rancho, where both the activities and housing offer a different set of options and awe-inspiring views.
