High Explosives R&D Technologist (Research Technologist 1, Part-Time)
- Req. Number: IRC144792
- Organization : Q-5/High Explosives Science and Technology Group
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
- Salary: $87,800 - $143,000
- Recruiter Name: Robinson, Loren
- Recruiter Email: lrob@lanl.gov
This position is open for external candidates only to apply.
Research Technologist 1 $87,800 - $143,000
High Explosive Science & Technology (Q-5) Group, serves the Laboratory and nation by providing the knowledge base in high explosives (HE) testing for the Nuclear Weapons Program and other national security areas. The group specializes in a broad array of energetic materials science including development (synthesis and formulation) and testing of novel explosives, pilot plant production of explosive materials, advanced manufacturing of explosives, analytical chemistry of explosives and explosive ingredients, thermal and mechanical characterization of neat explosives and their formulations, detonation performance testing, and special security projects.
Group Q-5 is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented experimentalist to work alongside a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and technologists in the development and execution of LANL mission-relevant projects involving the preparation, handling, and testing of high explosives and their formulations. The selected candidate will provide experimental support in a range of high explosive operations, including but not limited to: formulation and handling of explosives, class 3B/4 lasers, cryogens, chemicals, pressurized systems, non-energized electrical equipment, and hand operated power tools. The ideal candidate is careful and methodical, and will prioritize the production of high quality data and material, while abiding by all required safety practices. Other responsibilities include:
- Maintaining laboratory firing operations and experimental facilities, e.g., orderliness, cleanliness, inventory, supply procurement, coordination of craft work, shot clean-up, and waste management.
- Regularly organizing and performing tasks required to perform a complex explosive experiment, including building shot and diagnostic stands, and set-up of various types of diagnostic and recording equipment including oscilloscopes, cameras, pin/switch circuits, temperature control circuits, etc.
- Training and instruction of new group members and visitors when appropriate.
- Act as Firing Leader and/or Experimentalist in the preparation of explosive assemblies, including performing precision optical and/or mechanical alignment and verifying safe critical interlock safety systems used to protect personnel for explosive experiments.
- Leading development of hazard analyses, safety documents, and work procedures.
This posting is under the Associate Laboratory Directorate for Weapons Engineering (ALDW).
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Demonstrated experience working to a set of defined requirements and regulations (e.g., high explosive safety).
- Demonstrated experience maintaining infrastructure and high-value equipment, e.g., inventory, supply procurement, orderliness, cleanliness, and organization.
- Demonstrated experience using chemicals in a safe manner.
- Demonstrated experience in the areas of carpentry, metal fabrication, and/or mechanical skills using basic hand and power tools.
- Demonstrated experience with algebraic and geometric operations or college level courses in mathematics and chemistry.
- Proficiency with basic computer programs such as Word and Excel.
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills and experience with assisting in publication-quality work and presentations.
- Demonstrated ability to assume responsibility and work independently with a high degree of accuracy.
- Demonstrated experience working in a team environment with the ability to meet deadlines and deliverables.
Research Technologist 1 Education/Experience: Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 2 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience with handling or mixing of energetic materials and formulations, and/or certified as an HE handler.
- Experience with explosive firing operations and/or handling energetic materials (e.g., reactive chemicals, high explosives, detonators).
- Experience with data acquisition equipment (oscilloscopes/digitizers, delay generators, thermocouples, and pressure sensors).
- Experience with engineering drawing software (e.g. SolidWorks).
- Experience with optical alignment, optical system design/setup, and high speed camera operation (e.g. class 3B/4 lasers, framing cameras, streak cameras, high speed video).
- Experience with fabrication techniques and machinery (e.g., lathes, mills, saws, welders).
- Experience performing basic equipment troubleshooting and repair.
- Experience in procurement, assembly, modification, and maintenance of scientific lab instrumentation.
- Experience with LANL reporting requirements for environmental compliance, hazardous waste, chemical inventory etc.
- Knowledge of DOE Conduct of Operations and safety/security requirements for high explosive facilities.
- Active DOE security clearance.
- Preferred degrees: Chemistry, Engineering, Physics, Materials Science or related degree.
Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): Protective Clothing & Environment Mask or respirator
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:
- Interested applicants are required to apply online and upload a cover letter and resume. The cover letter must address the candidate experience and provide specific details on all of the job requirements and desired qualifications.
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
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.
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.