Material Science and Engineering Research Technician (Research Tec 2/3)
Los Alamos National Security LLC
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
Qualifications
- Must have knowledge of mechanical properties measurement and materials characterization.
- 3+ years experience or equivalent in a relevant field is required.
- Ability to perform routine tasks with minimal supervision is necessary.
Responsibilities
- Prepare metals and alloys for optical microscopy and electron microscopy.
- Perform mechanical testing over a broad range of conditions.
- Maintain various testing equipment for functionality and safety.
Skills
Education
Tools
Job description
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) is seeking candidates for a research technician position. Our focus is on the response of materials to deformation at high strain rates – i.e., under high speed impact or implosion. The selected research technician will provide technical support and work closely with a diverse group of scientists, engineers, technologists, and technicians on projects and programs for both internal and external customers. Principal job duties will include:
- Preparing metals and alloys for optical and electron microscopy.
- Performing mechanical testing using servo‑hydraulic and screw drive test systems over a broad range of strain rates and environmental conditions and temperatures ranging from liquid nitrogen to 2000°C.
- Performing routine maintenance on various test equipment such as ultra‑high vacuum systems.
Interpersonal communication and teamwork are important elements of this work environment, as is a commitment to LANL’s safety and security culture. Training will be required for LANL radiological work and conduct of operations regardless of prior experience.
This position will be filled at either the Research Tec 2 or 3 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
The successful candidates for Research Tec 2 will provide mid‑level technician support in one or more of the following areas:
- Mechanical properties measurement
- Metallography
- Materials characterization
- Dynamic testing
The research technician will provide support to all aspects of the quasi‑static and dynamic behavior of materials team with the main focus on mechanical testing and characterization. Under supervision perform and aid in routine maintenance of non‑energized electrical, mechanical and pressurized systems. Responsible for corrective and preventative maintenance related to equipment assembly/disassembly. Ability to work under guidance from senior staff with engineering drawings and/or electrical diagrams. Under guidance from team researchers prepare drawings and interface with various machine shops around the complex to prepare materials for machining into mechanical test specimen. Work on metallography preparation for metals and alloys.
In addition to the responsibilities and activities listed above, the Research Technician 3 will be expected to perform at a skilled level with direct experience in one of those areas. The Tec 3 will work with supervision (with the goal of becoming independent) to meet project deliverables.
- Ability to work with engineering drawings and/or electrical diagrams.
- Perform and aid in routine maintenance of non‑energized electrical, mechanical and pressurized systems.
- Troubleshooting maintenance systems.
- Under guidance from team researchers and independently prepare drawings and interface with various machine shops around the complex to prepare materials for machining into mechanical test specimen.
- Prepare test data for lead researcher review.
- Basic knowledge of and experience with hand and power tools
- Proficient computer skills with common applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
- Basic knowledge of and experience in computer systems and applications
- Ability to quickly learn new skills/techniques and adapt to changing environments
- Ability to work well in a team environment toward the accomplishment of common goals
- Ability to interact effectively with peers and management as required to complete work
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, procedures, plans and Laboratory requirements
- Ability to follow safeguards and security procedures in accordance with the Laboratory
- Ability to perform routine tasks independently in a related technical specialty and exercise independent judgment
- Ability to obtain a Q clearance
- Demonstrated experience executing job responsibilities with minimal supervision
In addition to the requirements listed above, the Research Technician 3 will also require the following:
- Knowledge or experience related to metallography, electron microscopy, materials characterization, materials processing and properties measurements, mechanical and dynamic testing, and/or maintenance of scientific equipment.
- Ability to work independently and initiate work.
- Ability to perform non‑routine tasks, exercising independent judgment.
Position requires a High School diploma and a minimum of 3 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Position requires an Associate’s Degree and 3 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
- Experience working with basic measurement equipment (multimeters, micrometers, balances, transducers, thermometers, etc.).
- Experience working with mechanical testing equipment (Instron and MTS test frames)
- Experience in performing or supporting scientific experiments using analytical or research equipment (spectrometers, microscopes, etc.).
- Experience working with vacuum, gas, and pressure systems in a research environment.
- May have formal training or experience machining a variety of materials with lathes, mills, drill presses, and saws, and other industrial apparatus.
- Experience in preparation and analysis of small samples for materials science analysis. Experience in preparation of materials for electron microscopy characterization.
For full consideration, applicants should submit a comprehensive cover letter that addresses the minimum job requirements and desired skills of the position along with a Resume/CV.
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, 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 (“green card” holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Peripheral vision, depth perception, reading vision and distance vision, ability to hear in a normal range (500 to 3000 Hertz), standing, walking, lifting 20‑30 pounds.
The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
- 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)
Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Position will be cleared to Q level. Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance and obtaining such clearance requires U.S. citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new‑employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre‑offer.
Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular‑status positions are converted to regular status.
Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
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 applicable 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, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request a disability accommodation, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505) 664‑6947, opt. 3.
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