Chemical Lab Technician

About the role

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work. It is a Flexible Term appointment, which is for a definite period not to exceed six years.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technical personnel to provide general technical support to various programmatic tasks and explosives research efforts, with an emphasis on the chemistry and characterization of high explosives.
• Characterize the physical, thermal, and chemical properties of explosives using various techniques including, but not limited to, differential scanning calorimetry, combustion calorimetry, chemical reactivity testing, compositional analysis, particle size and morphology analysis.
• Contribute to operations with chemistry processing systems including grinding, sieving, formulation, synthesis, operation of analytical instruments, and hazardous waste management and fulfill duties such as room responsibilities and routine maintenance for instruments and labs.
• Prepare samples of explosives, polymers, and other materials, perform tests, record results, and communicate with colleagues and supervisors.
• Acquire, analyze, interpret, and report basic data results on projects involving formulation and characterization of explosives.
• Provide solutions to fundamental technical problems related to formulation and characterization of explosives.
• Conduct, coordinate, and document procedures and peer reviews.
• Perform work as an LLNL Explosives Handler, and routinely work hands-on with energetic materials of all types.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Associate degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or Environmental Technology (or equivalent combination of education and experience) with some related experience.
• Basic understanding of chemistry and materials science with strong mechanical aptitude.
• Experience working with an experimental team and working effectively under conflicting and rigorous deadlines with general supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct chemistry support activities with a broad range of experience in experimental support, techniques, and execution including knowledge of safety rules and procedures.
• Handling and knowledge of chemicals in laboratory settings.
• Willingness to work with explosives, which requires the ability to deal with hazards inherent in explosives research in a responsible and efficient manner.
• Developed organizational and interpersonal skills to work with experimental teams with members from all disciplines. Ability to work on multiple projects while meeting programmatic deadlines and to work in a collaborative research and development environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, to present results verbally and through written reports.

Qualifications at the 504.3 level

• Provide advanced technical support to resolve technical and programmatic issues.
• Acquire, analyze and may interpret moderately complex data and provide solutions to complex technical problems.
• Plan and select methodology and procedures to attain desired goals in routine activities.

Pay Range

$43.55 - $63.97 Hourly
$43.55 - $53.56 Hourly for the 504.2 level
$52.53 - $63.97 Hourly for the 504.3 level

Benefits

Includes benefits such as flexible benefits package, 401(k), relocation assistance, education reimbursement program, flexible schedules, and more.

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite