Technical Operations Post-Graduate Internship
- Req. Number: IRC142306
- Organization : DP-DO/Detonator Production
- City, State: Los Alamos, New Mexico
What You Will Do
Detonator Production (DP) Infrastructure Planning Office (IPO) is seeking a Graduate Student to support programmatic operations. The Technical Operations Graduate Student (GRA) position offers paid summer with a year-round internship opportunity for a highly motivated graduate student who is eager to contribute to foundational elements of the organization. This role is well suited for individuals who take initiative, proactively seek out challenges, and are comfortable identifying and implementing solutions.
The program provides mentoring, hands-on technical experience, and professional development opportunities through a formalized work plan associated with business analytics, while encouraging independent problem-solving and meaningful contributions to operational improvements.
Examples of projects in IPO include, but are not limited to:
The graduate student intern in this role will gain hands-on experience working on real operational challenges that directly support mission-critical manufacturing and technical programs. Through these projects, the intern will develop a unique blend of technical, analytical, and professional skills that are highly transferable across industry, government, and research environments.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Desired Qualifications:
Students selected for GRA internships are most competitive when they can demonstrate that they possess the following knowledge and skills:
Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday 6:30 AM - 5:00 PM; On-site in Los Alamos, NM.
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.
Note to Applicants: When applying, candidates must attach:
Important: Applicants who fail to submit the three required application documents (resume, personal statement, transcript) will not be considered for employment.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
Detonator Production (DP) Infrastructure Planning Office (IPO) is seeking a Graduate Student to support programmatic operations. The Technical Operations Graduate Student (GRA) position offers paid summer with a year-round internship opportunity for a highly motivated graduate student who is eager to contribute to foundational elements of the organization. This role is well suited for individuals who take initiative, proactively seek out challenges, and are comfortable identifying and implementing solutions.
The program provides mentoring, hands-on technical experience, and professional development opportunities through a formalized work plan associated with business analytics, while encouraging independent problem-solving and meaningful contributions to operational improvements.
Examples of projects in IPO include, but are not limited to:
- Development of data visualization and dashboards using analytical tools that provide the broader organization insight into IPO's operations for equipment maintenance and technical project management for programmatic operations;
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including project management, maintenance, scheduling, procurement, supply chain, and engineering for data gathering;
- Create visualizations and compile reports to communicate key findings effectively;
- Optimize existing systems for tracking programmatic equipment project milestones, budgets, and resource allocation
- Support the programmatic maintenance team with generating maintenance plans, managing maintenance schedules, tracking compliance with service contracts, and analyzing maintenance spends through the use of emerging technologies
The graduate student intern in this role will gain hands-on experience working on real operational challenges that directly support mission-critical manufacturing and technical programs. Through these projects, the intern will develop a unique blend of technical, analytical, and professional skills that are highly transferable across industry, government, and research environments.
- Hands-on experience applying data-driven decision-making to real operational challenges.
- Exposure to how large, multidisciplinary organizations plan, execute, and sustain technical programs.
- Experience collaborating with diverse professional teams, strengthening communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- The ability to translate complex information into clear, actionable insights for leadership and technical staff.
- Practical experience improving processes, systems, and operational efficiency using modern analytical tools.
- Increased confidence working independently, demonstrating initiative, problem-solving ability, and ownership of impactful work.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited graduate degree program in data analytics, business analytics, engineering, operations research, systems engineering, industrial engineering, or related discipline.
- Must be enrolled in at least 6 semester credit hours (or full-time equivalent) in an accredited degree-granting program (or international equivalent).
- Students preparing to begin a graduate program of study must provide documentation indicating matriculation into an appropriate degree program.
- Must currently have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- Computer programming (SQL, Tableau, Python/R, Excel, Power BI, and/or Maintenance Management Software) with skills to support data mining, statistical modeling, operational research, and predictive analysis;
- Exceptional communication and social skills, with the ability to work effectively and communicate with stakeholders at varying levels and roles. You should also be comfortable delivering presentations.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q clearance
Desired Qualifications:
Students selected for GRA internships are most competitive when they can demonstrate that they possess the following knowledge and skills:
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently, take initiative, and identify solutions in situations with limited direction.
- Ability to analyze complex information, identify trends, and communicate insights clearly to technical and non-technical audiences.
- Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams or stakeholders in technical or operational environments.
- Proficiency in data management and reporting, with attention to accuracy, consistency, and data integrity.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to develop clear reports and visual materials.
- Familiarity with process improvement, systems optimization, or operational analysis concepts is a plus.
- Interest in applying emerging technologies to improve organizational effectiveness.
- Laboratory or shop experience demonstrating attention to detail and commitment to safety.
Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday 6:30 AM - 5:00 PM; On-site in Los Alamos, NM.
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.
Note to Applicants: When applying, candidates must attach:
- A resume,
- Personal statement (not to exceed one page),
- Their most recent transcripts (or an acceptance letter if transcripts have not been issued).
Important: Applicants who fail to submit the three required application documents (resume, personal statement, transcript) will not be considered for employment.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
