Radiation Transport and Detector Scientist 2/3

About the Role

The X-ray and Particle Sensing (XAPS) project and the Space Nuclear Sensing Group (ISR-8) are seeking a scientist to plan and execute sensor simulation, constellation-level simulation, and/or monitoring tasks for space-based radiation sensors. As part of USNDS, we design space-based sensors for detecting nuclear detonations in Earth's atmosphere and outer space. Our team participates in each step of the space hardware lifecycle, including design, production, and providing subject matter expertise to sponsors after hardware delivery.

This role involves working collaboratively with engineers, scientists, and technicians to develop simulation models, interpret on-orbit data, and lead research activities. You will help develop the next generation of space-based radiation sensors while addressing sponsor and stakeholder needs in a secure workplace.

This position may be filled at either the Scientist 2 or Scientist 3 level, depending on the candidate's skills and experience.

Responsibilities

Scientist 2 ($106,400 - $176,000)

• Support scientific or technical research and development on projects as an independent contributor under the supervision of senior scientists.
• Develop radiation transport simulations for informing sensor design.
• Perform data analysis of operational data to ensure the health of sensors.
• Develop algorithms to interpret data produced by operational sensors.
• Contribute to or lead the development of technical outputs such as presentations and reports for external sponsors.
• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and technicians to understand system design and requirements.

Scientist 3 ($128,000 - $215,900)

• All responsibilities of the Scientist 2 level.
• Lead research projects with little to no supervision and report results to stakeholders both internal and external to the Laboratory.
• Develop and/or contribute ideas for new proposals and business development opportunities.
• Lead the development of technical sections of small to medium-sized proposals.
• Develop new technical capabilities and extend R&D efforts through existing capabilities.
• Actively participate in professional societies, NNSA/Department of Energy interactions, and external collaborations.
• Participate in external working groups and assist in organizing meetings and colloquia.
• Mentor junior staff, postdoctoral associates, or students on research or manufacturing projects.

Requirements

• Expertise in at least one of the following topics:
  • Radiation transport using either MCNP or GEANT4.
  • Simulations of systems of many detectors.
  • Algorithm development for interpreting data from systems of many detectors.
• Demonstrated experience producing technical results from fundamental sciences or supporting operational sensors or development projects.
• Proven ability to reach milestones and produce deliverables.
• Experience working with experimental data from semiconductors or scintillator-based radiation sensors.
• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills, especially contributing to technical reports and archival publications.
• Ability to obtain a DOE "Q" security clearance, which usually requires U.S. citizenship.

Additional Requirements for Scientist 3

• Specialized expertise in areas of radiation sensor science, which could include:
  • Significant experience developing operational radiation sensors and algorithms to interpret complex signatures.
  • Experience developing new methods for improving radiation simulation model fidelity and speed.
• Demonstrated experience leading teams to realize research goals with broad technical impact.
• Experience securing funding for yourself and technical project teams in a competitive funding environment.
• Demonstrated ability to interact with internal and external customers and management.

Qualifications

Scientist 2

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 4 years of related experience, typically with post-doctoral research experience at a university or national lab.
• A degree in nuclear physics, high energy physics, or nuclear engineering is preferred.

Scientist 3

• Master’s degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 6 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A degree in nuclear physics, high energy physics, or nuclear engineering is preferred.

Desired Skills

• Hands-on experience contributing to space hardware projects with a deep understanding of the challenges involved.
• Experience working on collaborative and long-term software development.
• Experience writing C++ and Python.
• Experience with both MCNP and GEANT4.
• Demonstrated project experience in security or energy-related research where compliance and information protection are required.
• A Ph.D. may be preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Physical movement between buildings located primarily within a half-mile radius, which may include uneven and/or inclined ground.
• Physical movement within large interior facility spaces and corridors, which may require travel up and down stairs.
• Direct interaction with hardware, equipment, and instruments in office and laboratory environments.

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 1-year period of continuous service 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 are prohibited from accessing facilities that support national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities.

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, which typically requires U.S. citizenship. Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation, and obtaining such clearance ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required.