Nonlinear Computational Analysis Engineer

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; Livermore (CA); Hybrid; USD 146,340 - 222,564; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory seeks experienced Nonlinear Computational Analysis Engineers with a strong background in computational mechanics, material failure, high-rate dynamics, and multi-physics analysis. The role supports design and assessment for complex mechanical systems using massively parallel, high-performance nonlinear hydrostructural analysis codes.

These positions will be filled at SES.2 or SES.3 level based on experience, with responsibilities expanding at the higher

Qualifications

• : U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance.
• : Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, structural engineering, structural/applied mechanics or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• : Comprehensive knowledge of computational structural mechanics, including material failure, high-rate dynamics, hypervelocity impact, explosive modeling, or laser-matter interaction.
• : Proficient verbal and written communication skills for technical summaries to leadership.
• : Experience with programming or scripting languages such as Python for analyses.
• : Willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Assess and contribute to the response of complex mechanical systems subjected to high-rate loading.
• Develop large, geometrically complex finite element models.
• Guide the post-failure response of materials and structures under high-rate loadings.
• Perform verification analyses and participate in peer review to ensure analytical rigor.
• Collaborate with sponsors and other DOE laboratories, with occasional travel.

Skills

Computational mechanics

High-rate dynamics

Laser-matter interaction

Python programming

Technical communication

Travel willingness

Education

Master's degree in mechanical or aerospace or structural engineering

PhD in mechanical engineering or related field (desirable)

Tools

Python

NIF simulation codes

Job description

Overview

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) seeks experienced Nonlinear Computational Analysis Engineers with a strong background in computational mechanics, material failure, high-rate dynamics, and multi-physics analysis. The role supports design and assessment for complex mechanical systems using massively parallel, high-performance nonlinear hydrostructural analysis codes. Projects align with LLNL's Strategic Deterrence, National Ignition Facility & Photon Science, or Global Security mission areas, including high-priority national security efforts in missile defense, space science and security, and laser applications. These positions are in the Computational Engineering Division (CED), within the Engineering Directorate.

These positions will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

In this role you will

• Assess and contribute to the response of complex mechanical systems subject to high-rate loading, including laser-matter interaction, blast and hypervelocity impact problems, as part of a multi-disciplinary project team.
• Work under limited direction to effectively manage concurrent technical tasks in a multi-disciplinary team environment, including the development of large, geometrically complex finite element models.
• Apply comprehensive technical knowledge to guide the successful completion of project goals, including the assessment of the post-failure response of materials and structures subjected to high-rate loadings.
• Perform verification analyses to check computational methods against analytical solutions and verify that methods converge properly; participate in technical peer review processes to ensure analytical rigor and quality.
• Collaborate in training, briefings, or other program-related events, including meetings with sponsors, other DOE Laboratories, and U.S. government agencies, which may require occasional travel.
• Ensure appropriate security requirements are met for all levels of classified/unclassified information with limited direction.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities at SES.3 level

• Work independently to effectively manage concurrent technical tasks in a multi-disciplinary team environment, where commitments and deadlines are critical to project success.
• Apply advanced technical knowledge and methodologies to guide the completion of project and organizational goals; serve as the primary technical contact on tasks and projects.
• Resolve technical objectives and criteria to satisfy project objectives and execute appropriate technical approaches with minimal direction.
• Collaborate with technical area leaders, project leaders, and program management to represent technical capabilities and project results to internal management and external sponsors.

Qualifications

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, structural engineering, structural/applied mechanics or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of computational structural mechanics, with experience in one or more: material failure, high-rate system dynamics, hypervelocity impact, explosive modeling, or laser-matter interaction.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills to present and explain technical information, document work, and provide technical summaries to project leadership.
• Experience using programming or scripting languages such as Python to facilitate technical analysis.
• Experience documenting research results in formal reports.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to travel.

Additional qualifications at the SES.3 level

• Advanced knowledge of computational structural mechanics and modeling techniques, with experience in material damage and failure mechanisms, high-rate dynamics, hypervelocity impact, explosive modeling, or laser-matter interaction.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills to collaborate in a team, guide technical direction, and present proposals.
• Significant experience using programming or scripting languages such as Python for complex technical analysis.

Qualifications We Desire

• PhD in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, structural engineering, structural/applied mechanics or related field.
• Knowledge of advanced constitutive models for metals, composites, ceramics, foams, geologic materials, or polymers.
• Experience in large-scale scientific facilities, experimental programs, or national laboratory environments.
• Experience with NNSA laboratory codes or NIF-specific simulation codes in production analysis environments.
• Ability to secure and maintain access to Sensitive Compartments Information (SCI).

Pay Range

$146,340 - $222,564 Annually

$146,340 - $185,544 Annually for the SES.2 level

$175,530 - $222,564 Annually for the SES.3 level

This is the salary range in effect at the time of posting; pay will be based on competencies, education, experience, and location.

Additional Information

#LI-Hybrid

Position Information

This is a Career Indefinite position, open to Lab employees and external candidates.

Security Clearance

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance. If selected, a Federal background investigation will be initiated. All L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing. Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicants selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request.

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