Vacuum Systems Engineer (R&D Engineer 3)

About the Role

We are seeking a strongly self-motivated Research and Development Engineer to join the AOT-MDE Engineering Team. This team is responsible for a wide variety of accelerator component and systems designs, including cooling water, vacuum systems, and magnets. The selected candidate will primarily support vacuum systems along the LANSCE accelerator, operating at pressures of 10-7 to 10-8 Torr, utilizing over 200 ion pumps as well as cryogenic, turbo, and scroll pumps.

The successful candidate will design, analyze, and direct maintenance and improvement projects for the LANSCE accelerator vacuum systems. Additionally, you will support other ongoing work within MDE, including structural and thermohydraulic projects, often leading to experimental validation. Proficiency with CAD tools for design and analysis is critical.

Responsibilities

• Design and analyze vacuum systems for the LANSCE accelerator, ensuring operation at 10-7 to 10-8 Torr.
• Direct maintenance and improvement projects for accelerator vacuum systems.
• Support structural and thermohydraulic design and analysis projects, including experimental validation.
• Utilize CAD and CAM software (e.g., SolidWorks) for engineering design and documentation.
• Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technicians in a team environment.
• Interpret engineering drawings drafted using ASME Y14.5 standards.
• Provide engineering support to other teams within the group, including Water, Vacuum, and Diagnostics.

Requirements

• Knowledge and experience with all types of vacuum pumps, instrumentation, and associated hardware.
• Proven track record of contributing to high-impact R&D projects through design, analysis, prototyping, fabrication, and documentation.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings using ASME Y14.5 standards.
• Experience with CAD and CAM software, specifically SolidWorks.
• Strong work ethic with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Effective communication skills with scientists, engineers, and technicians.
• Commitment to safe and secure work practices.

Qualifications

A Master's Degree in Engineering from an accredited university and 6 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. A Ph.D. may be preferred at this level.

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of linear particle accelerator operation, configuration, and maintenance.
• Experience or skills in surface science and analysis.
• Strong leadership abilities.
• Willingness to provide engineering support to other teams (Water, Vacuum, Diagnostics).
• Knowledge of machining and welding techniques, equipment, and practices.
• Ability to obtain a Q-level security clearance.

Work Environment

This is an onsite position located in Los Alamos, NM. The work location is at the discretion of management. Regular appointment employees must serve a 1-year commitment in their current position before applying for other Laboratory jobs without documented approval from their Division Leader.

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 supporting national security laboratories, including Los Alamos National Laboratory.

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) plan 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 candidates outside a 50-mile radius).

This position does not require a security clearance but may require drug testing and other pre-employment background checks. Although marijuana use is legal in some states, it remains illegal under federal law, and a positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment.