Research Technologist 1/2

About the Role

The Alpha Wing is a premier radioactive facility at LANL responsible for conducting research on a wide variety of radionuclides for numerous programs. The Alpha Wing supports the Pit Manufacturing program, which includes monitoring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile and conducting advanced research in national security-related areas. This role involves general laboratory responsibilities, chemical process performance and development, use and maintenance of scientific instrumentation, and handling of radioactive materials.

Responsibilities

• Safe handling of radioactive materials, strong acids, and bases.
• Use of scientific analytical equipment, including ICP-OES and Gamma Spectrometer.
• Performing column chromatography for the separation of radioactive elements.
• Development of procedures for the isolation of pure stock solutions of transuranium elements.
• Maintaining good housekeeping of the laboratory.
• Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Understanding chemical hazards and ensuring work is reviewed by senior team members.
• Collaborating with scientists and post-doctoral researchers on research publications.
• Adhering to all Laboratory and industry regulatory guidance specific to the work area.
• Evaluating analytical data and determining next steps.
• Producing analytical reports for customers.
• Prioritizing work based on programmatic demands, working both independently and as part of a team.
• Contributing to continuous process improvements to meet customer requirements.

Requirements

• Knowledge of scientific principles, experimental processes, mathematical formulas, computations, and data gathering methods.
• Knowledge in chemistry acquired through experience, certification, and/or formal education.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software.
• Demonstrated knowledge of standard principles, concepts, and techniques in general chemistry.
• Proven ability to work as part of a team to accomplish complex goals.
• Understanding of relevant procedures, standards, and guides.

Qualifications

Research Technologist 1:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Technology, Science, Math, or a related field from an accredited institution and 2 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Research Technologist 2:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Technology, Science, Math, or a related field from an accredited institution and 5 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to work independently in creating reports and planning work.
• Proven ability to manage work independently and ensure completion of milestones and goals.
• Proven ability to create technical reports.
• Proven ability to manage projects with customer involvement.

Desired Skills

• Previous work in a chemistry laboratory.
• Ability to contribute to proposals and publications.
• Demonstrated technical knowledge in analytical chemistry.
• Demonstrated technical writing ability.
• Experience with ICP-OES and Gamma spectroscopy.
• Ability to lead assigned tasks.

Pay

• Research Technologist 1: $87,800 - $143,000
• Research Technologist 2: $96,600 - $158,000

Work Environment

• Work is onsite at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in Los Alamos, NM.
• Regular appointment employees must serve a 1-year commitment in their current position before applying for other internal roles.
• This position requires a Q clearance, which necessitates U.S. citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances.
• New-employment drug testing is required, and the Laboratory maintains a substance abuse policy including random drug testing.

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) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annual contribution.
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and paid time off (PTO and holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (for those outside a 50-mile radius).

For full consideration, applicants must submit a comprehensive cover letter addressing the key requirements of the position.