Research Technologist 3

About the Role

The Advanced Technology Group (NEN-2) conducts research, development, training, and operations in the application of passive and active nuclear measurement techniques, as well as radiography. Applications of primary interest include nuclear criticality safety, nuclear weapons, nuclear emergency response programs, and nuclear energy. NEN-2 supports nuclear criticality research for basic science, nuclear data validation, criticality safety validation, and performance of novel materials or reactor concepts. A key component of the mission is teaching personnel how to safely handle, detect, characterize, and manage nuclear materials. NEN-2 staff conduct classes in criticality safety, nuclear materials handling, and nuclear instrumentation. The group collaborates with NCERC Facility Operations (NCERC-FO) and Mission Support and Test Services, LLC (MSTS) at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) to execute nuclear critical and subcritical experiments at the National Criticality Experiments Research Center (NCERC).

Responsibilities

• Operate, support, maintain, and troubleshoot/repair a variety of radiation detection equipment, both gamma-ray and neutron based.
• Operate, support, maintain, and troubleshoot/repair a variety of low-to-high energy radiography instruments.
• Qualify as a Certified Fissile Material Handler (FMH) to perform hands-on experimental operations with significant quantities of Special Nuclear Material (SNM).
• Qualify as a Certified Fissile Material Handler (FMH) Person-in-Charge (PIC) to assume first-line supervisory responsibility for hands-on experimental operations with SNM.
• Support NEN-2 scientists/engineers and trainees in experiments or training at LANL and/or NCERC.
• Mentor and lead other technologists, technicians, and personnel in safe work execution.
• Maintain, design, and build instrumentation and equipment for radiation detection or radiography.
• Learn the principles and practice of radiation measurements, radiography, or nuclear criticality safety and develop subject-matter expertise in at least one core technique or technology.
• Sustain and improve work authorization and execution for NEN-2 operations.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience with radiation detection instrumentation or radiography instruments (e.g., installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, or analysis of experimental data).
• Demonstrated experience working successfully in a Hazard Category 2 Nuclear Facility.
• Hands-on technical experience (e.g., use of hand tools, machining, device fabrication or assembly, electronics, computer networking).
• Experience organizing technical work (e.g., coordination with other entities, purchases, shipping, equipment, labs, schedules).
• Ability to formulate and implement innovative approaches and solutions to problems.
• Demonstrated experience working successfully in a high-consequence environment that demands excellent attention to detail, conduct of operations, and safe work practices.

Qualifications

Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 8 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with more than one major radiation detection or radiography technique.
• Teaching experience, especially with audiences of various backgrounds.
• Fissile material handling experience.
• Strong computer skills (e.g., data acquisition, experiment control, programming, or data management).
• Ability and inclination to contribute to a wide range of basic-research and mission-science programs as needs and opportunities evolve.
• An active DOE Q clearance.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Human Reliability Program certification.

Essential Job Functions

• Climbing stairs, walking, lifting 20-30 pounds.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment, including a full-face respirator or Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR).

Work Environment

• Work location: DOE-Nevada National Security Site in North Las Vegas, NV.
• Work in widely ranging ambient temperatures.
• Work in areas controlled for radioactive contamination and/or radiation exposure.
• Work in a noisy environment.
• Work near electrical power supplies and machinery with moving parts.
• Safety requirements: safety glasses or eye protection, hearing protection, safety shoes or protective footgear.
• Potential for frequent domestic travel to NCERC (NV).

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).

Additional Details

This position requires a Q clearance, which typically requires U.S. citizenship. Selected applicants will undergo a background investigation. The position is subject to the DOE Human Reliability Program, including ongoing drug and alcohol testing, as well as periodic medical and psychological evaluations. An active DOE Q clearance is desired. The position is eligible for the Triad Incentive Compensation Program after meeting eligibility requirements.

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 supporting national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, including Los Alamos National Laboratory.