Electrochemistry Research Technologist 1/2

About the role

The Sigma Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking a highly motivated individual for the position of Electrochemistry Research Technologist. This position is open for external candidates only to apply. This position will be filled at either the Research Technologist 1 or 2 level dependent on the skills, knowledge and experience of the selected candidate.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and optimize existing plating lines and analytical instruments to enhance both efficiency and product quality.
• Collaborate with production staff to ensure seamless operation of the plating lines, promptly addressing any issues that arise.
• Design and carry out experiments aimed at developing new plating techniques and refining existing ones, while rigorously analyzing and interpreting process data to pinpoint opportunities for improvement.
• Comply with safety protocols and regulatory requirements, including the safe handling, use, and disposal of hazardous chemicals.
• Maintain detailed, accurate records of plating processes, formulations, and test results, and contribute to the preparation of technical reports, scientific publications, conference presentations, and patent applications.

Requirements

• Research Technologist 1: Demonstrated experience with plating lines and analytical instruments to improve efficiency and quality. Examples of team projects where you had to collaborate with peers and/or staff to ensure smooth operation of a laboratory and resolve any issues that arise. Experience conducting experiments and testing to develop new plating techniques and improve existing ones. Demonstrated ability to analyze and interpret data from plating processes to identify areas for improvement. Demonstrated compliance with safety protocols and regulations, including handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals. References that show you are able to maintain accurate records of plating processes, formulas, and test results. Examples where you contributed to reports, publications, presentations, and patents. Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which typically requires U.S. citizenship.
• Research Technologist 2: In addition to the above, the successful level 2 candidate will have examples where they have led written documentation in the form of reports, process documentation, procedures, or safety documentation. A history of developing and implementing new electroplating processes and formulas to meet customer requirements. Demonstrated experience contributing to development of implementation of ideas with minimal supervision to optimize capability maintenance and growth in technology areas. Demonstrated mentoring and leadership/mentoring capabilities.

Qualifications

• Research Technologist 1: 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.
• Research Technologist 2: 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

• Active Q-level clearance
• Knowledge of electroplating processes, including nickel, copper, gold, and silver plating
• Familiarity with chemical handling and safety protocols
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced team environment
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Certification in electroplating or related field an asset
• Experience in characterizing electroplated coatings and films using techniques like SEM, XRD, XPS, and electrochemical testing
• Experience with AI/ML for experimental materials development/discovery