Advanced Manufacturing Research Technologist 2/3

This position is open for external candidates only to apply.

About the Role

At Los Alamos National Laboratory, the E-2 group supports the national security mission and nuclear deterrence by developing engineering solutions that reduce system design timelines. The group focuses on agile manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and the use of nontraditional materials and processes. This includes the Lab's premier additive manufacturing capability, delivering high-quality polymer parts with speed, precision, and the capacity to meet demanding mission needs. In parallel, the group explores novel additive approaches with exotic material systems to expand design and fabrication options.

The successful candidate will support the development of advanced metrology capabilities critical to weapons missions at LANL. This includes CMMs, profilometers, state-of-the-art noncontact measuring systems, software implementation, and AI to advance lean, agile component inspections. The role also involves applying digital transformation principles to support Enterprise Modernization objectives.

Responsibilities

• Support capability development plans, equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.
• Manage data acquisition systems and related tasks.
• Use digital transformation principles to support Enterprise Modernization objectives.
• Provide clear and consistent communication about deliverables, identifying blocks and points of friction.
• Predict and communicate resource needs to ensure technical readiness progress.
• Operate with initiative while staying aligned with group priorities.

For Research Technologist 3, additional responsibilities include:

• Leading the development of innovative solutions for complex problems.
• Leading small teams and acting as a subject matter expert.
• Contributing significantly to weapons programs through product development, documentation, and qualification to improve manufacturing lifecycle efficiency.
• Mentoring junior staff.

Requirements

• Demonstrated depth of knowledge in machining, test plan setup, test execution, assembly, additive manufacturing, and inspection.
• Ability to plan and manage day-to-day activities, make informed decisions, and follow through on technical objectives.
• Experience developing specifications for product/system/equipment design and/or production processes in support of research.
• Proven ability to contribute to the development of new techniques and R&D goals.
• Experience preparing research documentation and technical reports.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and secure work environment.

For Research Technologist 3, additional requirements include:

• Demonstrated expert knowledge and refined skills in an advanced manufacturing setting.
• Experience developing new techniques, concepts, experimental designs, or innovative solutions to complex problems.
• Demonstrated experience covering either a large project or several smaller projects contributing to an overall program.
• Track record of excellence and reliability in leadership positions.

Qualifications

Research Technologist 2: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 5 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

Research Technologist 3: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 8 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. Post-graduate coursework may be desirable.

Skills

Training/Certifications:

• Machining
• Equipment maintenance
• Additive manufacturing
• Testing execution and test planning
• Assembly and inspection

Desired Qualifications

• Degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field.
• Experience working in high-consequence safety environments (e.g., high-temperature foundries, high-powered welding, chemical processing).
• Knowledge of DOE/NNSA complex codes and standards.
• Active security clearance.
• Demonstrated experience in managing complex R&D projects.

Essential Job Functions

• Reading vision.
• Ability to speak and hear in a normal range (500 to 3000 Hz).
• Sitting, standing, walking, crouching, and reaching.
• Use of both arms, applying torque with hands/arms, and gripping with hands.
• Lifting 30+ pounds.

Work Environment

• Primarily in a laboratory or glovebox environment near sources of ionizing radiation.
• PPE includes eye protection, gloves, protective coveralls, shoe covers, and occasional respirator use.

Location

The work location for this position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Pay

Research Technologist 2: $96,600 - $158,000

Research Technologist 3: $106,400 - $176,000

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a 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).

Security Clearance

This position requires a Q clearance. Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government. To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age and a U.S. citizen. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad. Dual citizens may be subject to additional restrictions.

Due to federal restrictions, citizens of the People's Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation who are not Lawful Permanent Residents are prohibited from accessing facilities that support national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, including Los Alamos National Laboratory.