Project Leader 1/2
- Req. Number: IRC141613
- Organization : PSD-1/Plutonium Supply and Disposition
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
This position will be filled at either the Project Leader 1 or Project Leader 2 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.
Join the best and brightest minds in the world at one of the most innovative and creative multidisciplinary research institutions engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. The work we do at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) matters to our country and to the world.
The Metal Production (PSD-1) group within the Plutonium Supply and Disposition Division plays a key role in supporting the Nation's defense programs by ensuring the safe, efficient, and mission-aligned production of plutonium metal. As a Project Leader, you will manage projects that support production operations, process improvement, and facility readiness across plutonium manufacturing. You will work closely with technical staff, operations personnel, and program managers to plan, track, and deliver results within scope, schedule, and budget ensuring compliance with safety, security, and quality standards. This role requires a proactive, highly organized individual who thrives in a dynamic, mission-driven environment and can build strong relationships across functional teams.
Project Leader 1 $78,700 - $125,100
At this level, you will:
Project Leader 2 $94,500 - $154,600
In addition to what is outlined at the lower level, at this level you will:
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements for Project Leader 1
Project Management: Experience developing and executing project plans, schedules, and budgets. Ability to define deliverables, track progress, and ensure timely completion of assigned work.
Organization and Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple tasks and deliver under changing priorities, ensuring results meet quality, compliance, and safety standards.
Communication and Collaboration: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, presentations, and updates for diverse audiences. Proven success working effectively in team environments.
Analytical Thinking: Ability to evaluate information, identify issues, and recommend innovative, practical solutions that improve project or operational performance.
Safety, Security, and Integrity: Commitment to integrating safety, security, and environmental compliance into all activities. Promotes a respectful, inclusive, and accountable work culture.
Education/Experience (Project Leader 1): Bachelor's degree in a related field and 2 years of directly related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Additional Job Requirements for Project Leader 2
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:
Advanced Leadership: Experience managing multiple, mid-sized projects concurrently, demonstrating independent judgment in complex or dynamic operational environments.
Strategic Execution: Ability to integrate project goals with organizational strategies, ensuring alignment with LANL mission priorities, including nuclear safety and production efficiency.
Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrated skill in negotiating priorities, building partnerships, and communicating with management and technical teams to achieve project success.
Analytical and Organizational Skill: Proven track record in evaluating complex issues, synthesizing data, and making evidence-based recommendations for operational or programmatic improvement.
Education/Experience (Project Leader 2): Bachelor's degree in a related field and 5 years of directly related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications
Note to Applicants:
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.
426.2A: This position is subject to DOE Order 426.2A, Personnel Selection, Training, and Qualification Requirements for DOE Nuclear Facilities, which establishes entry-level requirements to ensure candidates selected for specific positions can successfully perform the requirements of the job.
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.
This position will be filled at either the Project Leader 1 or Project Leader 2 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.
Join the best and brightest minds in the world at one of the most innovative and creative multidisciplinary research institutions engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. The work we do at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) matters to our country and to the world.
The Metal Production (PSD-1) group within the Plutonium Supply and Disposition Division plays a key role in supporting the Nation's defense programs by ensuring the safe, efficient, and mission-aligned production of plutonium metal. As a Project Leader, you will manage projects that support production operations, process improvement, and facility readiness across plutonium manufacturing. You will work closely with technical staff, operations personnel, and program managers to plan, track, and deliver results within scope, schedule, and budget ensuring compliance with safety, security, and quality standards. This role requires a proactive, highly organized individual who thrives in a dynamic, mission-driven environment and can build strong relationships across functional teams.
Project Leader 1 $78,700 - $125,100
At this level, you will:
- Lead small-scale or assist with larger non-science/engineering projects within PSD-1.
- Develop project plans, work breakdown structures, and schedules to meet production objectives.
- Monitor, track, and communicate project performance using established ALDWP project management tools, metrics, and procedures.
- Collaborate closely with PSD-1 line management to advance production, operational improvement, and project execution activities.
- Apply analytical skills to investigate issues, evaluate alternatives, and recommend solutions that enhance operational efficiency for metal production.
- Maintain documentation and ensure compliance with all LANL safety, security, and regulatory requirements.
- Handle sensitive and occasionally classified information with discretion and professionalism.
- Foster an inclusive, respectful, and mission-focused team culture, contributing to continuous improvement and effective collaboration across PSD.
Project Leader 2 $94,500 - $154,600
In addition to what is outlined at the lower level, at this level you will:
- Manage multiple moderately complex projects with minimal supervision.
- Lead cross-functional teams to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery of project objectives.
- Integrate project activities across PSD-1 to align with Laboratory priorities and compliance frameworks.
- Apply advanced problem-solving and analytical abilities to assess project risks, develop mitigation strategies, and recommend process enhancements.
- Serve as the primary spokesperson for project scope, schedule, and performance reporting to ALDWP management.
- Support strategic planning and resource optimization initiatives within PSD operations.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to junior project staff and emerging leaders.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements for Project Leader 1
Project Management: Experience developing and executing project plans, schedules, and budgets. Ability to define deliverables, track progress, and ensure timely completion of assigned work.
Organization and Attention to Detail: Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple tasks and deliver under changing priorities, ensuring results meet quality, compliance, and safety standards.
Communication and Collaboration: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, presentations, and updates for diverse audiences. Proven success working effectively in team environments.
Analytical Thinking: Ability to evaluate information, identify issues, and recommend innovative, practical solutions that improve project or operational performance.
Safety, Security, and Integrity: Commitment to integrating safety, security, and environmental compliance into all activities. Promotes a respectful, inclusive, and accountable work culture.
Education/Experience (Project Leader 1): Bachelor's degree in a related field and 2 years of directly related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Additional Job Requirements for Project Leader 2
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:
Advanced Leadership: Experience managing multiple, mid-sized projects concurrently, demonstrating independent judgment in complex or dynamic operational environments.
Strategic Execution: Ability to integrate project goals with organizational strategies, ensuring alignment with LANL mission priorities, including nuclear safety and production efficiency.
Stakeholder Engagement: Demonstrated skill in negotiating priorities, building partnerships, and communicating with management and technical teams to achieve project success.
Analytical and Organizational Skill: Proven track record in evaluating complex issues, synthesizing data, and making evidence-based recommendations for operational or programmatic improvement.
Education/Experience (Project Leader 2): Bachelor's degree in a related field and 5 years of directly related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications
- Familiarity with plutonium facility operations, Conduct of Operations, and nuclear safety principles.
- Experience managing DOE or NNSA-funded projects.
- Strong understanding of project controls, Earned Value Management, or similar frameworks.
- Active DOE Q clearance or the ability to obtain one.
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.
- For full consideration, please submit a comprehensive résumé outlining how you meet the minimum and desired qualifications above. This position may require a DOE Q clearance.
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.
426.2A: This position is subject to DOE Order 426.2A, Personnel Selection, Training, and Qualification Requirements for DOE Nuclear Facilities, which establishes entry-level requirements to ensure candidates selected for specific positions can successfully perform the requirements of the job.
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.
