Engineering Technician V - Computer Control Systems Operator (NWS 00873)

North Wind Services LLC; Livermore (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid leave

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

North Wind Services LLC supports LLNL's NIF control systems in Livermore, CA, with pay, benefits, and HR managed by NWS. The Engineering Technician V role operates in the NIF Control Room to start/stop software, monitor subsystems, and troubleshoot hardware and software issues.

The position involves collaborating with engineers and technicians, updating databases, and ensuring readiness for laser shots and system commissioning in a high-stakes environment.

Qualifications

• AS degree in Computer Science/Engineering/Technology or 4+ years of equivalent education/experience.
• Experience with web-based and Java thick-client applications; Oracle SQL, SolarWinds, SPLUNK; Linux/Unix and command-line environments.
• Experience with electronic and computer-based instrumentation and control systems, interlock systems, and mechanical hardware.
• Knowledge of supervisory control systems, equipment, and computer networking equipment.
• IT experience including IP networks, switches, and desktop support.
• Formal configuration control practices.
• Intermediate Microsoft Excel skills including conditional formatting and formulas.

Responsibilities

• Acquire detailed understanding of the structure, operation and deployment plans of the ICCS.
• Support the Shot Data System (SDS) suite for setup and analysis of laser experiments.
• Provide computer-based support for thick-client and web-client Java applications.
• Monitor processes during operations, commissioning, and new software release testing.
• Troubleshoot including restarting servers and database connections.
• Troubleshoot and repair routine hardware failures and update device configuration information as needed.
• Analyze software problems and gather data for feedback to developers.
• Collaborate with engineers and hardware technicians to troubleshoot, commission, and qualify equipment and devices.
• Support formal testing and commissioning activities, including updating database set-points for hardware devices.
• Provide feedback, document issues, and communicate system status.

Skills

Web-based applications

Java thick-client apps

Oracle SQL

SolarWinds

SPLUNK

Linux/Unix

Command-line

Instrumentation & control systems

Interlock systems

Networking equipment

IT networking

Configuration control

Excel (advanced)

Education

AS degree in Computer Science/Engineering/Technology

BS degree in Computer Science/Engineering/Technology

4+ years of equivalent education/experience

Tools

Oracle SQL

SolarWinds

SPLUNK

Linux/Unix

Job description

Location: Livermore, CA
Title: Engineering Technician V - Computer Control Systems Operator (NWS 00873)

Overview

North Wind Services (NWS) is a high performing, low risk company supporting federal missions through a wide range of technical services. The selected candidate will contribute to national security in the science, technology, and engineering fields as part of the supplemental labor team at LLNL in Livermore, CA. This role is employed by NWS but supports LLNL operations, with pay, benefits, and HR managed by NWS. A U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, must meet pre-employment requirements for DOE clearance.

The National Ignition Facility (NIF) is a 24/7 operation. This position supports NIF control systems, software, databases, networks, and hardware required for laser shots. The Engineering Technician will operate in the NIF Control Room, start/stop complex software processes, execute checklists, monitor subsystems, troubleshoot hardware, document issues, and gather data for developers. Interaction occurs with subsystem operators, engineers, and other technologists, reporting to the NIF & PS Control Systems Software Standards and Quality Manager.

Essential Duties

• Acquire detailed understanding of the structure, operation and deployment plans of the ICCS.
• Support the Shot Data System (SDS) suite for setup and analysis of laser experiments.
• Provide computer-based support for thick-client and web-client Java applications.
• Monitor processes during operations, commissioning, and new software release testing.
• Troubleshoot including restarting servers and database connections.
• Troubleshoot and repair routine hardware failures and update device configuration information as needed.
• Analyze software problems and gather data for feedback to developers.
• Collaborate with engineers and hardware technicians to troubleshoot, commission, and qualify equipment and devices.
• Support formal testing and commissioning activities, including updating database set-points for hardware devices.
• Provide feedback, document issues, and communicate system status.

Essential Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• AS degree in Computer Science/Engineering/Technology or 4+ years of equivalent education/experience.
• Experience with web-based and Java thick-client applications; Oracle SQL, SolarWinds, SPLUNK; Linux/Unix and command-line environments.
• Experience with electronic and computer-based instrumentation and control systems, interlock systems, and mechanical hardware.
• Knowledge of supervisory control systems, equipment, and computer networking equipment.
• IT experience including IP networks, switches, and desktop support.
• Formal configuration control practices.
• Intermediate Microsoft Excel skills including conditional formatting and formulas.

Desired Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities

• BS degree in Computer Science/Engineering/Technology or equivalent education/experience.
• Experience supporting computer control systems, especially large laser systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills including pivot tables and Visual Basic.
• Attention to detail in written logs, permits, procedures; professional communication skills and experience with virtual meeting platforms.
• Strong multitasking and coordination in fast-paced, time-critical environments.

Special Requirements

• Pre-Placement Medical Exam may be required.
• Pre-employment drug test for external applicants selected for this position.
• Anticipated Government Clearance Level: Q. U.S. citizenship is required for Q-level clearance. Applicants will undergo federal background checks and random drug testing for L or Q clearance holders.

Benefits and EEO

North Wind offers a competitive pay and benefits package including health, life, and disability insurance; 401(k) with company match; paid leave; and tuition reimbursement for eligible employees. North Wind is committed to employee wellness, professional development, and work-life balance. North Wind is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) notice provides information on personal data collection.