Computational Electrodynamics Accelerator Physicist 4 (Scientist 4)

Los Alamos National Laboratory; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Los Alamos National Laboratory is looking for a Scientist 4 in the Accelerator Operations and Technology Division. This role involves providing expertise in ion beam physics, leading simulation efforts of RF structures, and engaging in design development for the LANSCE Accelerator Modernization Project. The successful candidate will have a Master's degree in a STEM field, extensive experience, and leadership capabilities. The position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM, offering critical contributions to national security programs and cutting-edge accelerator science.

Qualifications

• 12 years of relevant experience in particle accelerators.
• Ability to manage a group and a multi-million-dollar budget.
• Current Q clearance or ability to obtain it.

Responsibilities

• Provide expertise and technical leadership in ion beam physics.
• Perform simulations of RF structures and components.
• Oversee accelerator science and technology programs.

Skills

Simulation and design of hydrogen ion sources

RF structures and components

Leadership

Oral and written communication

Collaboration with internal and external partners

Education

Master's degree in a STEM field

PhD (preferred)

Tools

CST

COMSOL

HFSS

IMPACT-T

GPT

CST Particle Studio

Elegant

Job description

What You Will Do

The Accelerator Operations and Technology Division Applied Electrodynamics (AOT‑AE) group seeks a Scientist 4 to provide expertise, support, and technical leadership in all aspects of design and modeling of accelerating structures and ion beam physics. The role focuses on ion source modeling, RF structure modeling, electromagnetic components modeling, and start‑to‑end beam dynamics simulations. The position is funded by the LANSCE Accelerator Modernization Project (LAMP) and involves design development activities for the LAMP accelerator, including interaction with experimental physicists and engineers at LAMP test stands.

Responsibilities

• Simulations of RF structures and electromagnetic components in CST, COMSOL, HFSS, or similar software.
• Beam physics simulations with IMPACT‑T, GPT, CST Particle Studio, Elegant, or similar software.
• Modeling and simulations of RF‑driven H\(^-\) sources, such as SNS‑type sources.
• Modeling and simulations of RF‑driven H\(^{+}\) sources, e.g., ECR‑type sources.
• Knowledge of advanced RF structure and beamline optimization techniques, including machine learning and artificial intelligence.
• Serve as a member of the AOT‑AE leadership team, overseeing a range of basic and applied accelerator science and technology programs for national security and non‑defense applications, and participating in program development of projects internal and external to Los Alamos National Laboratory.

What You Need

• Demonstrated experience in simulation and design of hydrogen ion sources, RF structures and components, and ion beamlines required for the LAMP project.
• Demonstrated success in meeting or exceeding expectations of customers and stakeholders in a research organization focused on particle accelerators.
• Excellence in oral and written communication with internal and external collaborators and sponsors.
• Ability to develop technical programs in partnership with others.
• Leadership experience and skills in setting priorities, assigning tasks, performance evaluation, mentoring, coaching, team building, and conflict resolution.
• Ability to nurture and develop research, engineering, and technical support staff.

Education/Experience at Level 4

Position requires a Master’s degree in a STEM field from an accredited institution and 12 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Preference will be given to candidates with a PhD.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to manage a group of greater than 10 people, directly or matrixed.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a multi‑million‑dollar budget.
• Knowledge of Laboratory, DOD, DOE, and other national programs relevant to the Group and Division’s activities.
• A clear vision of the future of particle accelerators and how it relates to existing and emerging technology.
• Demonstrated success in setting priorities for efficient implementation of safety, security, safeguards, environmental management, and core Laboratory business requirements.
• Current Q clearance, or the ability to obtain such, normally requiring U.S. citizenship.

Work Location

The position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Equal Opportunity

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request.