Nuclear Materials and Molten Salt Technologist 1 - Research Technologist 1

About the Role

The Inorganic Isotope Actinide Chemistry Group (C-IIAC) is seeking outstanding candidates to support hands-on experimental research, laboratory operations, and materials development activities in molten salt systems, nuclear materials, and related high-temperature chemical environments. This role involves independently executing well-defined procedures and processing workflows while collaborating closely with principal investigators, senior research staff, and technical team members to support larger research projects grounded in the principles of chemistry, chemical engineering, and materials science. The candidate will also serve as a point of contact for multiple laboratory spaces, helping ensure facilities and equipment are safely operated, maintained, and ready to support ongoing research activities.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with principal investigators and research staff to support project activities and ensure deliverables are met.
• Coordinate materials preparation and synthesis activities supporting multiple research projects and experimental campaigns.
• Serve as a point of contact for laboratory operations, coordinating with principal investigators and research staff across projects and programs.
• Respond to technical and operational inquiries, investigate issues, and coordinate solutions with research staff and facility personnel.
• Ensure safety and security compliance and maintain safe and secure laboratory operations.
• Foster a mutually respectful and inclusive work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.

Requirements

• Experience working with gloveboxes and inert atmosphere environments.
• Experience operating high-temperature furnaces and related equipment used for materials synthesis.
• Experience with laboratory procedures for solid-state or high-temperature materials processing in non-aqueous environments.
• Hands-on experience with molten salt systems, including salt preparation, purification, handling, and manipulation in a laboratory setting.
• Experience working in regulated laboratory environments with formal safety, radiological, or hazardous material protocols.
• Willingness to work with radioactive materials (e.g., thorium, uranium, plutonium).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q security clearance.
• Demonstrated ability to meet research deliverables and deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.

Qualifications

Position requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and two years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

Desired Skills

• Experience with materials characterization techniques and associated instrumentation (SEM, TEM, EDS, FTIR, UV-Vis, NMR, BET, TGA, DSC, etc.).
• Experience with metal machining and prototyping using appropriate equipment.
• Experience in one or more additional disciplines such as chemical engineering, materials science, or analytical chemistry.

Work Environment

• Work Location: Onsite in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
• Position Commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of 1 year in their current position.

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 ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, including Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Benefits

• 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).