Material Science and Engineering Research Technician (Research Tec 2/3)

Los Alamos National Laboratory; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 54,900 - 84,300; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

401(k) match

Tuition assistance

PTO and holidays

Job summary

A scientific research laboratory in Los Alamos, NM, is seeking a Research Technician to join their Quasi-static and Dynamic Behavior of Materials team. The role focuses on the mechanical testing and characterization of materials. Candidates require knowledge of tools, computer skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team. The position offers a salary range of $54,900 - $84,300 for Research Technician 2 and $66,100 - $103,600 for Research Technician 3, depending on qualifications.

Qualifications

• High School diploma and 3 years of related experience required.
• Associate's Degree and 3 years of experience for Research Technician 3.
• Experience in metallography and dynamic testing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prepare optical and electron microscopy samples.
• Perform mechanical testing and routine equipment maintenance.
• Support the quasi-static and dynamic behavior of materials team.

Skills

Basic knowledge of hand and power tools

Proficient computer skills

Ability to learn new skills

Teamwork

Communication skills

Maintenance of scientific equipment

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Associate's Degree (for Research Technician 3)

Tools

Mechanical testing equipment (Instron, MTS)

Measurement equipment (multimeters, micrometers)

Job description

What You Will Do

The Quasi‑static and Dynamic Behavior of Materials team within the Materials Physics and Applications‑Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies (MPA‑CINT) group at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) seeks a research technician to support projects and programs that study the response of materials to high‑strain‑rate deformation. The selected technician will provide technical support and work closely with scientists, engineers, technologists, and other technicians on mechanical testing, materials preparation and characterization, and routine maintenance of research equipment.

Responsibilities

• Research Technician 2
  • Mechanical properties measurement
  • Metallography preparation for metals and alloys
  • Dynamic testing and support of all aspects of quasi‑static and dynamic behavior of materials
  • Perform and aid in routine maintenance of non‑energized electrical, mechanical, and pressurized systems
  • Corrective and preventive maintenance related to equipment assembly and disassembly
  • Work under guidance using engineering drawings and/or electrical diagrams
  • Prepare drawings and interface with machine shops to prepare materials for machining into mechanical test specimens
• Research Technician 3
  • Perform skilled‑level tasks in at least one of the areas above
  • Work with supervision, progressing toward independent performance of project deliverables
  • Lead routine maintenance of non‑energized electrical, mechanical, and pressurized systems
  • Troubleshoot maintenance systems
  • Prepare drawings and interface with machine shops independently to produce test specimens
  • Prepare test data for lead researcher review

Qualifications

• Research Technician 2
  • Basic knowledge of hand and power tools
  • Proficient computer skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Ability to learn new skills quickly and adapt to changing environments
  • Team‑work skills and effective interpersonal communication
  • Follow written and verbal instructions, procedures, and laboratory requirements
  • Follow safeguards and security procedures in accordance with the Laboratory
  • Perform routine tasks independently and exercise independent judgment
  • Obtain a Q clearance
  • Demonstrated ability to execute responsibilities with minimal supervision
• Research Technician 3
  • Knowledge or experience in metallography, electron microscopy, materials characterization, processing, property measurements, mechanical/dynamic testing, and/or maintenance of scientific equipment
  • Work independently and initiate work
  • Perform non‑routine tasks, exercising independent judgment

Education / Experience

Research Technician 2: High School diploma and at least 3 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Research Technician 3: Associate's Degree and 3 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with basic measurement equipment (multimeters, micrometers, balances, transducers, thermometers, etc.)
• Experience with mechanical testing equipment (Instron, MTS test frames)
• Experience supporting scientific experiments using analytical or research equipment (spectrometers, microscopes, etc.)
• Experience working with vacuum, gas, and pressure systems in a research environment
• Formal training or experience machining materials with lathes, mills, drill presses, saws, and other industrial apparatus
• Experience preparing and analyzing small samples for materials science analysis, including electron microscopy preparation

Compensation & Benefits

Research Technician 2 salary range: $54,900 – $84,300. Research Technician 3 salary range: $66,100 – $103,600.

Benefits include PPO or high‑deductible medical insurance, dental and vision coverage, basic life and disability insurance, paid parental leave, 401(k) with 6% match plus 3.5% annual increase, tuition assistance, flexible schedules, onsite gym and wellness programs, and relocation packages for locations beyond 50 miles.

Work Location

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

Position Commitment

Regular appointment employees are required to serve a continuous period in their current position. The commitment for this position is 1 year.

Clearance

Q clearance is required. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible for clearance under specific circumstances. Background investigation is required.

New‑Employment Drug Test

All successful applicants must complete a new‑employment drug test. Results indicating marijuana use will result in termination of employment.

Equal Opportunity & Legal Notice

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability. The Laboratory is committed to creating a workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and offers reasonable accommodations upon request. For citizenship restrictions: citizens of the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of North Korea, and the Russian Federation who are not lawful permanent residents are prohibited from accessing facilities that support national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities.