Director, Materials & Physical Sciences Center

Sandia National Laboratories; New Mexico; On-site; USD 236,000 - 401,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vacation

Medical benefits

Competitive 401k

Relocation assistance

Flexible/telecommuting options

Job summary

Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque seeks a Director to lead the Materials, Physical & Chemical Sciences Center. You will shape strategy, manage a 500+ staff, and guide R&D across materials, aging, and fabrication to support Sandia's national security missions.

This leadership role emphasizes collaboration with DOE partners, development of AI-enabled workflows, and delivering high-impact programs within a $200M annual portfolio, with a clear focus on safety, compliance, and workforce

Qualifications

• PhD in engineering or science field relevant to the Center.
• Minimum of 15 years post‑degree complex R&D experience in leading research groups.
• Minimum of 10 years leading complex scientific or engineering organizations.
• Documented record of technical and R&D accomplishments.

Responsibilities

• Assume line and program management responsibilities for Center 1800, including direct reports.
• Ensure cost-effective, high‑quality, timely research outputs; uphold ES&H requirements.
• Recruit and retain talent; develop policies and infrastructure investments.
• Shape vision for emerging technologies; develop short and long‑range R&D plans.
• Lead portfolio development across multiple business segments; meet sponsor needs.
• Collaborate across Laboratories to achieve mission goals and sustain capabilities.
• Build relationships with customers, HQ NNSA officials, and stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Communication

Education

PhD in engineering or sciences relevant to the Center

Job description

Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque seeks a Director to lead the Materials, Physical & Chemical Sciences Center. You will shape strategy, manage a 500+ staff, and guide R&D across materials, aging, and fabrication to support Sandia's national security missions.

This leadership role emphasizes collaboration with DOE partners, development of AI-enabled workflows, and delivering high-impact programs within a $200M annual portfolio, with a clear focus on safety, compliance, and workforce