Detonation Physics Research Technologist (Research Technologist 2/3)
- Req. Number: IRC141575
- Organization : M-9/Shock and Detonation Physics
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
- Recruiter Name: Nyenhuis, Niko Alexander
- Recruiter Email: nnyenhuis@lanl.gov
This position will be filled at either the Research Technologiest 2/Research Technologist 3 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
The Detonation Physics team in the Shock and Detonation Physics Group (M-9) delivers precision data on the detonation performance of a range of high explosive (HE) materials through the use of advanced diagnostics. Much of this work involves precision assemblies for state-of-the-art examination of flows in extreme conditions. Diagnostics include time of arrival data, high-speed framing cameras, detonation front shape imaging, and Photon Doppler Velocimetry. Additionally, the team develops and deploys advanced sensors for HE behavior. The Group is seeking a Research Technologist 2/3 in support of these specific activities.
Research Technologist 2 $94,500 - $154,600
Supports production-focused research by helping define project specifications, ensuring final products meet requirements, and contributing to capability development with minimal supervision. Working collaboratively under general guidance, they solve moderately complex problems, develop new techniques and concepts, and assist with safe and compliant execution of work- including handling energetic materials and contributing as a subject matter expert to authorizing documents. Responsibilities include documenting and communicating results, protecting sensitive or classified information, and mentoring students, postdocs, or less-experienced staff while verifying the quality and accuracy of completed work.
Research Technologist 3 $104,100 - $172,200
In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, at this level-a Research Technologist 3 works with minimal guidance to achieve long-range objectives, independently resolving moderately complex problems that require integrating data across multiple technical areas. They serve as a lead, reviewing and guiding the work of others to ensure processes, materials, and final products meet established requirements and quality standards. They also contribute substantially to proposals and are frequent authors or co-authors of peer-reviewed publications.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Demonstrated ability to machine complex inert test components including the ability to operate manual and CNC mills and lathes.
- Ability to contribute to shot design including the use of CAD software.
- Ability to assist with preparation of explosive assemblies including precision assembly and alignment of various shot and diagnostic stands.
- Capability to assist with maintaining TA40 machining areas and our indoor experimental high explosive testing facility.
- Demonstrated experience working to a set of defined requirements and regulations (e.g., Document control and security requirements).
- Demonstrated positive work attitude and the ability to take on new tasks in a self-guided manner.
- Demonstrated ability to assume responsibility and work independently with a high degree of accuracy.
- A willingness to learn and practice the safe handling of explosive materials in a rigorous safety environment, along with the ability to manage complex and co-located hazards.
- Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team and make suggestions to continuously improve ongoing projects.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to keep track of projects with detailed documentation from start to finish.
- Experience with planning projects, including ordering parts and materials.
- Experience with leadership in subsections of a project to meet complex deliverables and deadlines.
Additional Job Requirements for Research Technologist 3:
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:
- Expert-level and demonstrated depth and breadth of knowledge in high explosives R&D and fabrication of related components.
- Demonstrated knowledge of Laboratory policies, procedures, standards and guides, particularly regarding high explosives handling, firing, and transportation
- Demonstrated experience covering precision high explosives assembly, firing, or manufacturing of necessary components
Education/Experience at the Research Technologist 2 level: Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 5 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Education/Experience at the Research Technologist 3: Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 8 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience in handling energetic materials with LANL High Explosive qualification (Handler, Assembly/Disassembly operator).
- Journeyman machinist qualification.
- Experience with LANL procurement and ordering.
- Some familiarity with common laboratory instruments such as oscilloscopes, digitizers, pressure sensors, or high-speed imaging equipment.
- Experience with laser-based optical techniques, such as PDV (Photonic Doppler Velocimetry), for diagnosing fast phenomena.
Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): Lifting 30+ pounds, standing, walking, Domestic/Foreign Travel
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The
position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Note to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants MUST submit a comprehensive cover letter that addresses the key requirements of the position.
Work Schedule: 9/80 or 4/10
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
§ PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
§ Dental and vision insurance
§ Free basic life and disability insurance
§ Paid childbirth and parental leave
§ Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
§ Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
§ Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
§ Onsite gyms and wellness programs
§ Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Incentive Compensation Program: Position is eligible to participate in the Triad Incentive Compensation Program. You must be in an eligible position for a minimum of 3 months, before July 1st and remain in an eligible position as of the end of the fiscal year, September 30th. The annual distribution is prorated based on the number of months in the eligible position.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.