Post-Bachelor Student - Software Quality Assurance
- Req. Number: IRC141234
- Organization : PAQ-2/Production Agency Quality
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
The Weapons Production Directorate at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking a Student Intern to support the Software Quality Assurance (SQA) team. This position is ideal for a student interested in learning how software quality principles are applied in a high-consequence production environment that supports the nation's nuclear security mission.
The intern will assist SQA professionals with documentation and compliance tasks related to the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). This role is primarily focused on writing, organizing, and maintaining quality documentation rather than software programming.
Key Responsibilities:
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Education/Experience:
Desired Qualifications:
Required Application Materials:
Work Location: Onsite/Hybrid: This position is located in Los Alamos, NM with the potential for a hybrid work arrangement (partially onsite/partially offsite) from a location within 2 hours ground commute of this location. Reporting onsite will be regularly required. Hybrid is at the discretion of management and can change at any time with appropriate notice.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of 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 Northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. LANL enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health, and global security concerns. Our generous benefits package includes:
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.
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.
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: For general program information refer to the Student Programs web page: https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/student-internships/index.php
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 applicable 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 a disability accommodation, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505) 664-6947, opt. 3.
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.
10 things to know about Los Alamos before you come:
You'll Be Living at 7,300 Feet
Los Alamos sits high in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico - higher than Denver! The altitude means cooler temperatures, less oxygen, and stunning mountain views. It may take a week or so to adjust, so drink water, take it easy at first, and don't be surprised if you get winded walking uphill.
The Outdoors Is Your Playground
If you love hiking, skiing, trail running, climbing, or biking, you're in the right place. Trails start right in town and lead to canyons, mesas, and forests. Nearby adventures include Pajarito Mountain, Bandelier National Monument, and the Valles Caldera - all within 30 minutes.
You're Joining a World-Class Science Community
Los Alamos isn't a typical small town - it's full of scientists, engineers, and researchers from around the world. You'll find yourself surrounded by people who are passionate about solving big, complex problems and who genuinely love to share their knowledge.
The LANL Mission Is Both Serious and Inspiring
LANL supports national security, energy innovation, and scientific discovery. Even in a student role, your work matters - it contributes to projects that have real-world impact. You'll experience the intersection of research, engineering, and service to the nation.
Housing Can Be Tight - Plan Early
Los Alamos has limited rental housing, especially in summer. Many students find places in White Rock (15 minutes away) or Santa Fe (40 minutes away). LANL's student programs office can help with housing tips, roommate connections, and commuting options.
You'll Probably Want a Car
Public transportation is limited, and grocery stores, trails, and housing can be spread out. If you don't have a car, carpooling and LANL shuttles may help, but having your own wheels makes exploring northern New Mexico much easier.
New Mexico's Culture and Food Are Unforgettable
You'll fall in love with New Mexican cuisine - especially green chile (trust us, it goes on everything). Los Alamos blends small-town friendliness with the cultural richness of nearby Santa Fe, Taos, and the Pueblos. You'll experience art, festivals, and a deep sense of place.
It's a Tight-Knit, Safe, and Welcoming Community
Los Alamos is a small, safe town with great amenities - parks, libraries, a community center, and local coffee shops. It's easy to meet other students and young professionals through LANL's Student Association and Outdoor Adventure groups.
Be Ready for Security and Safety Culture
LANL is a secure facility - expect badges, safety briefings, and rules about where you can go and what devices you can use. It can feel strict at first, but it's all part of protecting the people and the mission. Professionalism and attention to detail are valued everywhere.
This Experience Can Launch Your Career
Many post-bachelor students find that their time at LANL becomes a career-defining experience. You'll gain real technical skills, work with brilliant mentors, and get exposure to research, computing, and national programs that few places in the world can offer.
Bonus Tip: Stay Curious
Bring your curiosity, your sense of adventure, and your willingness to learn - both in the lab and outside of it. Los Alamos has a special mix of science, history, and nature that you'll remember long after you leave.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.
The Weapons Production Directorate at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking a Student Intern to support the Software Quality Assurance (SQA) team. This position is ideal for a student interested in learning how software quality principles are applied in a high-consequence production environment that supports the nation's nuclear security mission.
The intern will assist SQA professionals with documentation and compliance tasks related to the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). This role is primarily focused on writing, organizing, and maintaining quality documentation rather than software programming.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in preparing and maintaining software lifecycle documentation, including requirements, design descriptions, test plans, and verification reports.
- Support compliance reviews and audits to ensure software projects meet LANL and DOE quality requirements.
- Help track and update software configuration records, release notes, and version histories.
- Collaborate with engineers, analysts, and quality personnel to ensure documentation accurately reflects current processes and system states.
- Contribute to the development and improvement of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and templates for software quality documentation.
- Participate in the design and execution of software verification and validation (V&V) activities for weapons production applications.
- Engage with multidisciplinary teams to apply modern software engineering practices and tools.
- Contribute to documentation, metrics, and reports that demonstrate software quality assurance (SQA) effectiveness.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Strong technical writing and organizational skills.
- Basic understanding of software processes, quality assurance, or engineering documentation.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and basic document management practices.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established procedures accurately.
- Understanding of software development life cycle (SDLC) processes and software quality principles.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
Education/Experience:
- Must have earned an Associate's or a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (or international equivalent) within the last 3 years in an appropriate field,
- Must have graduated with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or above on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
Desired Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Information Systems, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Familiarity with DOE/NNSA quality standards or regulated documentation environments.
- Experience with document control systems or configuration management tools.
- Coursework or interest in software quality, systems engineering, or process improvement.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and an interest in learning within a mission-driven environment.
Required Application Materials:
- Current resume
- Current official transcripts
- Personal statement of interest (not to exceed one page)
Work Location: Onsite/Hybrid: This position is located in Los Alamos, NM with the potential for a hybrid work arrangement (partially onsite/partially offsite) from a location within 2 hours ground commute of this location. Reporting onsite will be regularly required. Hybrid is at the discretion of management and can change at any time with appropriate notice.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of 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 Northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. LANL enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health, and global security concerns. 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)
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.
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.
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: For general program information refer to the Student Programs web page: https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/student-internships/index.php
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 applicable 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 a disability accommodation, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505) 664-6947, opt. 3.
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.
10 things to know about Los Alamos before you come:
You'll Be Living at 7,300 Feet
Los Alamos sits high in the Jemez Mountains of northern New Mexico - higher than Denver! The altitude means cooler temperatures, less oxygen, and stunning mountain views. It may take a week or so to adjust, so drink water, take it easy at first, and don't be surprised if you get winded walking uphill.
The Outdoors Is Your Playground
If you love hiking, skiing, trail running, climbing, or biking, you're in the right place. Trails start right in town and lead to canyons, mesas, and forests. Nearby adventures include Pajarito Mountain, Bandelier National Monument, and the Valles Caldera - all within 30 minutes.
You're Joining a World-Class Science Community
Los Alamos isn't a typical small town - it's full of scientists, engineers, and researchers from around the world. You'll find yourself surrounded by people who are passionate about solving big, complex problems and who genuinely love to share their knowledge.
The LANL Mission Is Both Serious and Inspiring
LANL supports national security, energy innovation, and scientific discovery. Even in a student role, your work matters - it contributes to projects that have real-world impact. You'll experience the intersection of research, engineering, and service to the nation.
Housing Can Be Tight - Plan Early
Los Alamos has limited rental housing, especially in summer. Many students find places in White Rock (15 minutes away) or Santa Fe (40 minutes away). LANL's student programs office can help with housing tips, roommate connections, and commuting options.
You'll Probably Want a Car
Public transportation is limited, and grocery stores, trails, and housing can be spread out. If you don't have a car, carpooling and LANL shuttles may help, but having your own wheels makes exploring northern New Mexico much easier.
New Mexico's Culture and Food Are Unforgettable
You'll fall in love with New Mexican cuisine - especially green chile (trust us, it goes on everything). Los Alamos blends small-town friendliness with the cultural richness of nearby Santa Fe, Taos, and the Pueblos. You'll experience art, festivals, and a deep sense of place.
It's a Tight-Knit, Safe, and Welcoming Community
Los Alamos is a small, safe town with great amenities - parks, libraries, a community center, and local coffee shops. It's easy to meet other students and young professionals through LANL's Student Association and Outdoor Adventure groups.
Be Ready for Security and Safety Culture
LANL is a secure facility - expect badges, safety briefings, and rules about where you can go and what devices you can use. It can feel strict at first, but it's all part of protecting the people and the mission. Professionalism and attention to detail are valued everywhere.
This Experience Can Launch Your Career
Many post-bachelor students find that their time at LANL becomes a career-defining experience. You'll gain real technical skills, work with brilliant mentors, and get exposure to research, computing, and national programs that few places in the world can offer.
Bonus Tip: Stay Curious
Bring your curiosity, your sense of adventure, and your willingness to learn - both in the lab and outside of it. Los Alamos has a special mix of science, history, and nature that you'll remember long after you leave.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
- Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.
- Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
- Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated.
Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
- Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
- From here, you will establish an account with username and password.
How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
- Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
- Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.
