Research Technologist 1/2
- Req. Number: IRC142155
- Organization : Sigma-1/Fabrication Manufacturing Sciences
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
Sigma-1 is seeking several research technologists to join the team to execute engineering and scientific principles in research projects related to materials manufacturing. Based on candidate's qualifications and interests, a technologist will join one of 4 teams including Thermomechanical Processing Science, Ceramics Processing Science, Material Assessment and Compatibility, and Machining and Inspection. A brief overview of each team is outlined below:
Thermomechanical Processing Science: Blacksmith to laser smith, we are a middle ground of metals manufacturing science. We focus on changing the shape and/or properties of metal parts. We work with stakeholders to design solutions to their challenges and work outside the box to streamline manufacturing.
Ceramics Processing Sciences: The Ceramics Processing Sciences Team specializes in materials synthesis and processing for metal and ceramic powders. Powder processing can form high melting point materials that cannot be formed in any other way such as tungsten, molybdenum, and zirconium, as well as oxides, carbides, nitrides and borides.
Material Assessment and Compatibility: The Materials Compatibility Team enhances understanding of interactions among materials, and between materials and their service environment, specializing in corrosion and aging processes that often occur only when multiple materials are combined in a complex system.
Machining and Inspection: The Machining and Inspection team performs prototype machining of metallic and non-metallic materials to support product development, production, and testing activities. Additionally, the team performs dimensional inspection of components using manual and automated methods.
Across Sigma-1, we support a wide variety of programs with an emphasis on identifying creative solutions to meet our customers' needs. The successful candidate will be able to work effectively on both independent projects and as part of a team to assist on projects. The role will largely include a combination of hands-on work, data analysis, and contributions to technical reporting.
This position will be filled at either the Research Technologist 1/2 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.
Research Technologist 1 $85,900- $139,900
Research Technologist 2 $94,500-$154,600
In addition to what was outlined at the Research Technologist 1 level, at this level candidate will have:
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Additional Job Requirements for Research Technologist 2:
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:
Education/Experience at Research Technologist 1 level:
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.
Education/Experience at Research Technologist 2 level:
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:
Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): Lifting 30+ pounds, standing, walking.
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:
Multiple positions will be filled at the Research Technologist 1, 2 and 3 levels (see separate level 3 job posting if you feel like you may qualify for the higher level) depending on applicant qualifications and experience.
When submitting your application electronically to this vacancy, please submit at a minimum 1) a cover letter and 2) a resumé that contains the following information: education, major (if relevant), GPA, relevant work experience, professional references, relevant technical skills, and work areas of interest.
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.
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.
Sigma-1 is seeking several research technologists to join the team to execute engineering and scientific principles in research projects related to materials manufacturing. Based on candidate's qualifications and interests, a technologist will join one of 4 teams including Thermomechanical Processing Science, Ceramics Processing Science, Material Assessment and Compatibility, and Machining and Inspection. A brief overview of each team is outlined below:
Thermomechanical Processing Science: Blacksmith to laser smith, we are a middle ground of metals manufacturing science. We focus on changing the shape and/or properties of metal parts. We work with stakeholders to design solutions to their challenges and work outside the box to streamline manufacturing.
Ceramics Processing Sciences: The Ceramics Processing Sciences Team specializes in materials synthesis and processing for metal and ceramic powders. Powder processing can form high melting point materials that cannot be formed in any other way such as tungsten, molybdenum, and zirconium, as well as oxides, carbides, nitrides and borides.
Material Assessment and Compatibility: The Materials Compatibility Team enhances understanding of interactions among materials, and between materials and their service environment, specializing in corrosion and aging processes that often occur only when multiple materials are combined in a complex system.
Machining and Inspection: The Machining and Inspection team performs prototype machining of metallic and non-metallic materials to support product development, production, and testing activities. Additionally, the team performs dimensional inspection of components using manual and automated methods.
Across Sigma-1, we support a wide variety of programs with an emphasis on identifying creative solutions to meet our customers' needs. The successful candidate will be able to work effectively on both independent projects and as part of a team to assist on projects. The role will largely include a combination of hands-on work, data analysis, and contributions to technical reporting.
This position will be filled at either the Research Technologist 1/2 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.
Research Technologist 1 $85,900- $139,900
- Perform hands-on technical and laboratory work under limited supervision, applying foundational knowledge in a scientific or engineering discipline.
- Contribute meaningfully to technical projects, with your work supporting and advancing project and group objectives.
- Carry out laboratory and research activities with strong attention to detail, safety, and procedural compliance.
- Use and support software and analysis tools such as solid modeling programs (e.g., Creo, SolidWorks, CATIA), instrumentation and control systems (e.g., PLCs, LabVIEW), or other process control and instrumentation platforms.
- Work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team to accomplish research and technical goals.
- Working in a hazardous environment
Research Technologist 2 $94,500-$154,600
In addition to what was outlined at the Research Technologist 1 level, at this level candidate will have:
- Lead independent technical projects, collaborating with team members to develop and implement techniques that meet project objectives.
- Plan and execute small projects, including guiding and directing the work of junior technicians or technologists.
- Identify, define, and specify technical capabilities and resources needed to achieve project goals.
- Collaborate effectively with a diverse group of professionals-including technicians, engineers, and scientists-communicating clearly across experience levels and disciplines.
- Apply creativity, ingenuity, and independent judgment to support multiple concurrent tasks and evolving project needs.
- Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve instrumental and experimental challenges independently.
- Continuously expand your technical skill set by learning new tools and techniques, with mentorship from more experienced staff as needed.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Relevant experience working in a technical field in an industrial or research environment.
- Demonstrated experience generating technical drawings, specifications, or work instructions.
- Experience leading a small team in research or manufacturing projects.
- Experience contributing to the development of new convepts and resolving moderately complex issues.
- Ability to contribute to technical reports or publications.
- Demonstrated strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft programs, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
- Demonstrated self-starter with a commitment to organization and task preparation.
Additional Job Requirements for Research Technologist 2:
In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:
- Experience providing significant input on internal reports, progress reports to sponsors, or technical publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- Experience developing new techniques, principles, and concepts, and complete work in innovative and effective ways.
- Experience mentoring technicians, and leads actitives of others.
- Demonstrated ability to develop specifications for a project in area of specialty.
- Demonstrated technical leadership in area of expertise.
- Demonstrated supervision of projects and personnel as part of a larger project or program.
Education/Experience at Research Technologist 1 level:
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.
Education/Experience at Research Technologist 2 level:
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:
- Experience developing and assembling mechanical systems, test assemblies, and experimental hardware.
- Experience developing and maintaining authorizing documents to perform work safely and compliantly.
- Experience performing routine maintenance of furnaces, vacuum systems, water lines, and hydraulic systems, rolling mills, etc. including maintaining supplies for the equipment in these areas.
- Experience operating processing equipment which could include furnace systems, hydraulic presses, milling equipment, CMM and other dimensional inspection equipment, chemical or gas analysis, gloveboxes, etc.
- Experience in working in hazardous environments.
- Experience creating solid models or engineering technical drawings.
- Active Q clearance.
Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): Lifting 30+ pounds, standing, walking.
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:
Multiple positions will be filled at the Research Technologist 1, 2 and 3 levels (see separate level 3 job posting if you feel like you may qualify for the higher level) depending on applicant qualifications and experience.
When submitting your application electronically to this vacancy, please submit at a minimum 1) a cover letter and 2) a resumé that contains the following information: education, major (if relevant), GPA, relevant work experience, professional references, relevant technical skills, and work areas of interest.
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.
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.
