Overview
The Sigma Operations Group (Sigma-OPS) is seeking an energetic, customer-focused individual to join our Programmatic Maintenance Team. The Engineering Technologist 1 will support engineering and operational activities related to the maintenance, analysis, and improvement of programmatic equipment and systems. This role applies engineering principles to troubleshoot, evaluate, and enhance equipment, with a focus on machine control systems including PLC communications, sensor diagnostics, and system integration.
Key Responsibilities
- Apply engineering principles to analyze, troubleshoot, and improve electrical and mechanical control systems
- Perform diagnostics, programming, and maintenance of CNC and PLC-based systems
- Support the design, integration, and modernization of control systems and programmatic equipment
- Assist in engineering evaluations, system performance analysis, and development of design solutions
- Reverse engineer legacy systems to support maintenance, upgrades, and documentation
- Troubleshoot and repair electrical subsystems and components in accordance with established procedures
- Prepare, review, and maintain technical documentation, including schematics, drawings, and specifications
- Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and facility personnel to support project and operational objectives
- Communicate with vendors to identify and procure replacement parts and technical solutions
- Contribute to the development and execution of preventative and predictive maintenance strategies
- Support continuous improvement efforts for maintenance processes, system reliability, and operational efficiency
- Perform work in accordance with Laboratory safety, security, and regulatory requirements, including electrical safety programs
Minimum Job Requirements
- Demonstrated ability to apply basic engineering principles, mathematics, and technical problem-solving skills
- Ability to read, interpret, and work from electrical and mechanical schematics, drawings, and technical documentation
- Experience troubleshooting, maintaining, or supporting electrical, mechanical, or control systems
- Ability to work within defined procedures, regulations, and safety requirements in a highly regulated environment
- Experience working with preventative, predictive, and corrective maintenance programs
- Demonstrated ability to execute responsibilities with minimal supervision while exercising sound judgment
- Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills; ability to work effectively with diverse teams and customers
- Proficiency with standard computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Ability to obtain a DOE Q‑clearance (typically requires U.S. citizenship)
Desired Qualifications
- Experience with industrial control systems such as Siemens Step 7, RSLogix, Click PLC, or similar platforms
- Familiarity with CAD or modeling software and engineering design tools
- Experience supporting system design, equipment modification, or engineering projects
- Working knowledge of machine shop and fabrication tools (e.g., mill, lathe, forklift)
- Experience working with maintenance planning, scheduling, and reliability programs
- Experience preparing or reviewing technical documentation and drawings
- Active DOE Q clearance
Education / Experience
Position requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering technology, science, math or related degree from an accredited institution and 2 years related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. Candidates that meet the degree requirement, but who do not meet the two‑year experience requirement, are encouraged to apply and may be considered for hire through an allowable variance.
Work Location
The work location for this position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Benefits
- PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same 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)
Clearance
Position will be cleared to DOE Q level. Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age and U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. Meeting eligibility requirements is a prerequisite to gain clearance.
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 also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request.