J-4 (DARHT Experiments and Radiographic Science) Deputy Group Leader
- Req. Number: IRC139759
- Organization : J-4/ DARHT Experiment & Radiographic Science
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
- Salary: $150,300 - $260,800
- Recruiter Name: Brown, Christopher Shawne
- Recruiter Email: csbrown@lanl.gov
What You Will Do
The DARHT Experiments and Radiographic Science (J-4) group at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a qualified candidate to serve as Deputy Group Leader (R&D Manager 3). This position will partner closely with the Group Leader to provide operational, managerial, and administrative leadership for the group. The successful candidate will work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment that includes scientists, engineers, mathematicians, technicians, IT professionals, drafters, and collaborators from diverse backgrounds. The Deputy Group Leader will play an active role in fostering a team environment and coordination across group-level staff, other LANL divisions, and customers, and will serve as a member of the J Division Management Team. The Deputy Group Leader is funded 50% for management activities and 50% for scientific and programmatic work.
J-4 is one of four premier groups within the Integrated Weapons Experiments Division (J Division) and is responsible for leading the fielding and execution of hydrotests at the Dual Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test Facility (DARHT). J-4 is also responsible for the operation of the central control system for DARHT, called the DARHT Detection Chamber. The group excels in radiographic imaging and analysis, timing and control systems, blast hardware design, optical hydrotest assembly, and precision optical metrology. J-4 maintains strong collaborative relationships across many groups, divisions, and laboratories in support of the laboratory's national security mission.
The Deputy Group Leader will provide critical administrative and operational support to ensure the smooth execution of hydrotest campaigns and day-to-day group activities. This includes coordinating personnel and resources, supporting compliance and safety efforts, and fostering an inclusive, collaborative team environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in experimental physics, engineering, or a related technical field, with demonstrated leadership experience in complex, multidisciplinary environments. Familiarity with weapons physics, hydrodynamic testing, or radiographic imaging is highly desirable.
The culture of J Division emphasizes mutual trust, interdependent teaming, and shared success. It values innovation, creative problem-solving, and operational excellence. The division is committed to delivering the highest quality technical data to meet the needs of its mission partners, making this an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about impactful science and national service.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Leadership and Management
Demonstrated record of excellent leadership, management, and supervisory experience. Demonstrated experience in team building, collaborations, and integration across program lines to accomplish larger program and Group/Division goals. Demonstrated record of effective decision-making and creative problem solving. Demonstrated abilities to build trust, resolve conflict, and foster consensus. Demonstrated experience in recruiting, evaluating, hiring, and mentoring staff.
Technical Background
Professional-level background, education, and experience in physics, engineering, or applied mathematics, demonstrated through academic qualifications and successful project and program execution. Demonstrated strong understanding of research and development practices, with proven ability to investigate alternative solutions and recommend effective approaches to complex technical challenges impacting R&D activities, projects, or initiatives.
Communication
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Demonstrated ability to effectively interact with all levels of personnel, stakeholders, and customers.
Clearance
Ability to obtain Q clearance as well as Sigma 15, which typically requires US citizenship.
Education/Experience
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.
Desired Qualifications:
Note to Applicants:
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.
Work Schedule: This position is full time, on-site. 5/8s or 9/80 work schedule.
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.
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:
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 opt. 3.
The DARHT Experiments and Radiographic Science (J-4) group at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a qualified candidate to serve as Deputy Group Leader (R&D Manager 3). This position will partner closely with the Group Leader to provide operational, managerial, and administrative leadership for the group. The successful candidate will work in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment that includes scientists, engineers, mathematicians, technicians, IT professionals, drafters, and collaborators from diverse backgrounds. The Deputy Group Leader will play an active role in fostering a team environment and coordination across group-level staff, other LANL divisions, and customers, and will serve as a member of the J Division Management Team. The Deputy Group Leader is funded 50% for management activities and 50% for scientific and programmatic work.
J-4 is one of four premier groups within the Integrated Weapons Experiments Division (J Division) and is responsible for leading the fielding and execution of hydrotests at the Dual Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test Facility (DARHT). J-4 is also responsible for the operation of the central control system for DARHT, called the DARHT Detection Chamber. The group excels in radiographic imaging and analysis, timing and control systems, blast hardware design, optical hydrotest assembly, and precision optical metrology. J-4 maintains strong collaborative relationships across many groups, divisions, and laboratories in support of the laboratory's national security mission.
The Deputy Group Leader will provide critical administrative and operational support to ensure the smooth execution of hydrotest campaigns and day-to-day group activities. This includes coordinating personnel and resources, supporting compliance and safety efforts, and fostering an inclusive, collaborative team environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in experimental physics, engineering, or a related technical field, with demonstrated leadership experience in complex, multidisciplinary environments. Familiarity with weapons physics, hydrodynamic testing, or radiographic imaging is highly desirable.
The culture of J Division emphasizes mutual trust, interdependent teaming, and shared success. It values innovation, creative problem-solving, and operational excellence. The division is committed to delivering the highest quality technical data to meet the needs of its mission partners, making this an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about impactful science and national service.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Leadership and Management
Demonstrated record of excellent leadership, management, and supervisory experience. Demonstrated experience in team building, collaborations, and integration across program lines to accomplish larger program and Group/Division goals. Demonstrated record of effective decision-making and creative problem solving. Demonstrated abilities to build trust, resolve conflict, and foster consensus. Demonstrated experience in recruiting, evaluating, hiring, and mentoring staff.
Technical Background
Professional-level background, education, and experience in physics, engineering, or applied mathematics, demonstrated through academic qualifications and successful project and program execution. Demonstrated strong understanding of research and development practices, with proven ability to investigate alternative solutions and recommend effective approaches to complex technical challenges impacting R&D activities, projects, or initiatives.
Communication
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Demonstrated ability to effectively interact with all levels of personnel, stakeholders, and customers.
Clearance
Ability to obtain Q clearance as well as Sigma 15, which typically requires US citizenship.
Education/Experience
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.
Desired Qualifications:
- Advanced knowledge of one or more of the group's mission areas (x-ray radiography, image analysis, high-speed cameras, timing and control systems, blast hardware design, optical hydrotest assembly, or precision optical metrology) demonstrated through technical contributions.
- Experience with formality of operations and facilities.
- Experience operating in research facilities where classified materials are handled regularly.
- Demonstrated knowledge of nuclear weapon systems.
- Working knowledge of hydrodynamic testing.
- Active Q clearance.
- Demonstrated working knowledge of LANL policies in integrated work management, safety, security, quality, environment, finance, and human resources.
Note to Applicants:
- For full consideration, submit a resume and detailed cover letter addressing the required and desired qualifications outlined above.
- The position is 100% on-site.
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.
Work Schedule: This position is full time, on-site. 5/8s or 9/80 work schedule.
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.
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 maternity 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 opt. 3.
