Mechanical Technologist/Sr. Mechanical Technologist - Nuclear Materials Engineering

Join us and make your mark on the world! Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) advances science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability. Our mission spans nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense, empowering teams to tackle today’s and tomorrow’s toughest challenges. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is where your expertise can drive real impact.

About the role

We have multiple openings for Mechanical Technologists/Sr. Mechanical Technologists to support operations of new and ongoing experiments involving engineering evaluation, fabrication, assembly, and documentation for various programs. These operations may involve working with radioactive or fissile materials. You will work under general supervision in a team environment, supporting physics experiments and mechanical engineering evaluation. Work may include handling Beryllium, hazardous materials, classified parts, and documents. These positions are full-time and on-site within the Defense Technologies Engineering Division (DTED), Engineering Directorate. Additional responsibilities apply if hired at the higher level.

Responsibilities

• Provide general technical support to engineering, scientific, and technical staff for planning and conducting experiments at LLNL and off-site locations.
• Design, fabricate, assemble, and disassemble moderately complex mechanical components and systems using work control processes and procedures.
• Operate mechanical diagnostic equipment, maintain area controls, assist with calibration and alignment, test prior to experiment execution, and perform data recovery afterward.
• Apply knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes to solve mechanical problems.
• Maintain systems documentation and experimental records.
• Perform facility-related functions such as maintenance, testing, and upgrades to equipment control and interlock systems.
• Ensure support and experimental areas are clean, uncluttered, and in a state of readiness.

Additional Responsibilities (Sr. Level)

• Provide advanced technical assembly and disassembly support for complex systems.
• Participate in project, facility, and experimental design reviews, contributing input to assembly tasks.
• Design, fabricate, assemble, and disassemble complex mechanical components and systems, including planning materials, equipment, and methods.

Requirements

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
• Associate degree in Engineering Technology or equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Experience with mechanical diagnostic equipment, calibration, alignment, testing, and data recovery.
• Ability to read and follow engineering notes, sketches, and drawings.
• Experience in mechanical fabrication and assembly.
• Knowledge of engineering hardware design and testing processes.
• Experience with general machining processes and ability to operate hand/power tools.
• Ability to lift 30 lbs safely and controlled.
• Ability to become medically qualified to wear respiratory and other protective equipment, performing moderate work while using respirators.

Additional Qualifications (Sr. Level)

• High-level technical skills and knowledge of engineering principles to solve complex problems using established guidelines.
• Ability to read and follow complex assembly procedures, engineering notes, sketches, and drawings.
• Extensive experience working on technical project teams and providing technical direction to others.

Pay

Hourly pay range: $43.55 – $63.97

• $43.55 – $53.36 for the 533.2 level
• $52.23 – $63.97 for the 533.3 level

This represents the lowest to highest salary we would pay for this role at the time of posting. Pay will not fall below any applicable local minimum wage. An employee’s position within the range depends on competencies, education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, and business needs.

Benefits

• Flexible benefits package
• 401(k)
• Relocation assistance
• Education reimbursement program
• Flexible schedules (depending on project needs)

Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor.