Project / Program Specialist 1/2
- Req. Number: IRC138843
- Organization : Project Program Interface/ PPI-2
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
The Program Project Interface (PPI) Division is seeking outstanding candidates to join our multi-disciplinary team as a Project/Program Specialist. The Program Project Interface (PPI) Division helps to ensure the successful execution of capital line item and programmatic equipment projects. We act as a bridge between the Associate Level Director for Weapons Production (ALDWP) and Associate Level Director for Plutonium Infrastructure (ALDPI), supporting the delivery of next-generation facilities, infrastructure, and equipment that support mission-critical objectives. PPI is committed to operational excellence by representing the interests of program owners, aligning with program objectives, and collaborating with project execution stakeholders. Through active participation in Integrated Project Teams (IPTs) and throughout the project lifecycle, PPI ensures that program requirements are met and supports LANL's mission delivery with integrity, accountability, and strategic partnership.
The selected candidate will report to the Line Item Program Representation (PPI-2) Group Leader within the Program Project Interface (PPI) organization. The focus of the PPI-2 team is to interface with several projects within the PPI portfolio such as 10 pit and Pu sustainment, infrastructure, LAP4, CMRR, HC-3/RC-3, TRPIII and PEI2. This includes transition to operations (TTO) and project owner representation (POR) of groups that work at theTA-55 site. The PPI-2 team represents the project owner and is fully integrated with the project team (IPT) to ensure that the program and user requirements are met from initial planning through turnover to operations.
Project/Program Specialist 1 ($71,200 - $112,900)
As a Project/Program Specialist 1, you will support capital and equipment project integration within the plutonium mission space, contributing to transition to operations (TTO) and program readiness efforts at the Plutonium Facility (PF-4). This position is an excellent entry point into project management and offers the opportunity to grow into a future leader at the intersection of infrastructure, mission delivery, and operational readiness at Los Alamos National Laboratory. You will assist in the development of work packages, support cost estimating and schedule tracking, and help coordinate technical and programmatic requirements across a range of projects within the PPI-2 portfolio. Under direction, you will monitor performance metrics, support safety and compliance integration, and provide updates to leadership while working across divisions in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
Project/Program Specialist 2 ($85,900 - $139,900)
In addition to the duties listed above, the Project/Program Specialist 2, will play a key role in supporting and coordinating moderately complex capital and equipment projects within LANL's plutonium mission space, with a focus on transition to operations (TTO) and user readiness at TA-55/PF-4. You will help integrate programmatic requirements from early planning through operational turnover, working across directorates and within cross-functional teams. Responsibilities include developing operational plans, supporting work packages, cost controls, and schedule tracking, and providing technical and analytical support to ensure successful project execution. With a strong grasp of Laboratory and DOE standards, you will identify and manage risks, advise on scope changes, and serve as a liaison between project leaders and stakeholders, ensuring that safety, readiness, and mission priorities are fully embedded in all project activities.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Project Management Support:
Demonstrated ability to contribute effectively across various stages of the project lifecycle, both independently and as part of a team. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines are essential for supporting ongoing project planning and execution. A basic understanding of startup or readiness processes for operations, equipment, or facilities further enhances the candidate's ability to contribute to smooth project transitions.
Communication and Collaboration:
Possess effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey information through emails, presentations, and meetings. Should be comfortable collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and capable of developing and nurturing productive relationships with mid-level internal and external stakeholders.
Technical Knowledge:
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook is expected. In addition, a foundational understanding of operational readiness or startup processes supports the candidate's ability to function in technically complex environments.
Education/Experience
Desired Qualifications:
Work Environment:
Work Location: The work location for this position is hybrid and is located in Los Alamos, NM. Hybrid is defined as working partially onsite/partially offsite but within 2 hours ground commute of this location. All work locations are at the discretion of management and can change at any time with appropriate notice.
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:
To be considered for this position, please submit a resume outlining your professional achievements, along with a cover letter highlighting your qualifications, relevant experience, and interest in the role.
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.
HRP: This position is subject to the requirements of the DOE Human Reliability Program as specified in 10 Code of Federal Regulation, Part 712, §712.11. These requirements include on going drug and alcohol testing, as well as periodic medical and psychological evaluations.
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.
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 Program Project Interface (PPI) Division is seeking outstanding candidates to join our multi-disciplinary team as a Project/Program Specialist. The Program Project Interface (PPI) Division helps to ensure the successful execution of capital line item and programmatic equipment projects. We act as a bridge between the Associate Level Director for Weapons Production (ALDWP) and Associate Level Director for Plutonium Infrastructure (ALDPI), supporting the delivery of next-generation facilities, infrastructure, and equipment that support mission-critical objectives. PPI is committed to operational excellence by representing the interests of program owners, aligning with program objectives, and collaborating with project execution stakeholders. Through active participation in Integrated Project Teams (IPTs) and throughout the project lifecycle, PPI ensures that program requirements are met and supports LANL's mission delivery with integrity, accountability, and strategic partnership.
The selected candidate will report to the Line Item Program Representation (PPI-2) Group Leader within the Program Project Interface (PPI) organization. The focus of the PPI-2 team is to interface with several projects within the PPI portfolio such as 10 pit and Pu sustainment, infrastructure, LAP4, CMRR, HC-3/RC-3, TRPIII and PEI2. This includes transition to operations (TTO) and project owner representation (POR) of groups that work at theTA-55 site. The PPI-2 team represents the project owner and is fully integrated with the project team (IPT) to ensure that the program and user requirements are met from initial planning through turnover to operations.
Project/Program Specialist 1 ($71,200 - $112,900)
As a Project/Program Specialist 1, you will support capital and equipment project integration within the plutonium mission space, contributing to transition to operations (TTO) and program readiness efforts at the Plutonium Facility (PF-4). This position is an excellent entry point into project management and offers the opportunity to grow into a future leader at the intersection of infrastructure, mission delivery, and operational readiness at Los Alamos National Laboratory. You will assist in the development of work packages, support cost estimating and schedule tracking, and help coordinate technical and programmatic requirements across a range of projects within the PPI-2 portfolio. Under direction, you will monitor performance metrics, support safety and compliance integration, and provide updates to leadership while working across divisions in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
Project/Program Specialist 2 ($85,900 - $139,900)
In addition to the duties listed above, the Project/Program Specialist 2, will play a key role in supporting and coordinating moderately complex capital and equipment projects within LANL's plutonium mission space, with a focus on transition to operations (TTO) and user readiness at TA-55/PF-4. You will help integrate programmatic requirements from early planning through operational turnover, working across directorates and within cross-functional teams. Responsibilities include developing operational plans, supporting work packages, cost controls, and schedule tracking, and providing technical and analytical support to ensure successful project execution. With a strong grasp of Laboratory and DOE standards, you will identify and manage risks, advise on scope changes, and serve as a liaison between project leaders and stakeholders, ensuring that safety, readiness, and mission priorities are fully embedded in all project activities.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Project Management Support:
Demonstrated ability to contribute effectively across various stages of the project lifecycle, both independently and as part of a team. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines are essential for supporting ongoing project planning and execution. A basic understanding of startup or readiness processes for operations, equipment, or facilities further enhances the candidate's ability to contribute to smooth project transitions.
Communication and Collaboration:
Possess effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey information through emails, presentations, and meetings. Should be comfortable collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and capable of developing and nurturing productive relationships with mid-level internal and external stakeholders.
Technical Knowledge:
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook is expected. In addition, a foundational understanding of operational readiness or startup processes supports the candidate's ability to function in technically complex environments.
Education/Experience
- Project/Program Specialist 1: Bachelor's degree in a related field and 2 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
- Project/Program Specialist 2: Bachelor's Degree in a related field from an accredited institution and 5 years related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
- Familiarity with radiological or nuclear facilities (e.g., PF-4, RLUOB).
- Understanding of Safety Management Programs (SMPs) or DOE readiness processes (DOE O 425.1D).
- Experience supporting or observing readiness assessments, operational planning, or startup testing.
- Unescorted access to TA-55/PF-4 and/or active Q-clearance.
Work Environment:
Work Location: The work location for this position is hybrid and is located in Los Alamos, NM. Hybrid is defined as working partially onsite/partially offsite but within 2 hours ground commute of this location. All work locations are at the discretion of management and can change at any time with appropriate notice.
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:
To be considered for this position, please submit a resume outlining your professional achievements, along with a cover letter highlighting your qualifications, relevant experience, and interest in the role.
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.
HRP: This position is subject to the requirements of the DOE Human Reliability Program as specified in 10 Code of Federal Regulation, Part 712, §712.11. These requirements include on going drug and alcohol testing, as well as periodic medical and psychological evaluations.
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.
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.
