Product Realization/Systems Engineer (R&D Engineer 2/3)

Los Alamos National Security LLC; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 101,000 - 207,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking Research and Development Engineers to contribute to the W93 warhead system, a groundbreaking project in weapon technology. This role involves collaborating with production teams and leading engineering projects to ensure the safety and reliability of critical defense systems. Ideal candidates will have a strong engineering background, excellent communication skills, and experience in R&D project execution. Join a team that values diversity and offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans, while making a significant impact in national security.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Retirement Plans

Tuition Assistance

Wellness Programs

Relocation Packages

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in engineering or related fields.
• Experience with nuclear weapon design and development is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Designing and qualifying W93 components under guidance.
• Collaborating with agencies to develop manufacturing processes.
• Creating technical reports and participating in reviews.

Skills

Engineering Principles

R&D Project Management

Clear Communication

Engineering Drawings Interpretation

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Master's Degree in Engineering

Ph.D. in Engineering

Job description

What You Will Do

This position will be filled at either the R&D Engineer 2 or R&D Engineer 3 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional responsibilities will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

The W93 System Development and Realization Group (Q-20) seeks Research and Development Engineers (R&D 2/3) to join our production realization teams (PRTs). You will collaborate with PRT leads and physics teams to design, engineer, certify/qualify, and field components for the W93 warhead. The PRTs include Systems and Product Realization Engineers.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the first new weapon system in over 30 years. Q-20, part of the W93/Mk7 Systems Development and Realization Group, develops and deploys the warhead system for the Navy's newest sub-launched ballistic missile. We support DoD/Navy SSP and DOE/NNSA clients in defining mission needs and technical requirements, working closely with Sandia National Laboratories and Lockheed Martin Space to develop the re-entry system, ensuring safe, secure, and reliable warhead performance, and maintaining a relevant nuclear deterrent. We also work with production agencies like KCNSC, Pantex, SRS, Y-12, LANL, and SNL in design, qualification, and realization processes.

The Product Realization / Systems Engineer will play a vital role in delivering various products across the W93 portfolio. Responsibilities include:

• Working under the guidance of the Production Realization Team lead to design, engineer, certify/qualify, and field W93 components.
• Collaborating with production agencies to develop manufacturing processes.
• Conducting research into component development and qualification.
• Creating technical reports to document decisions and respond to NNSA taskings.
• Participating in programmatic and technical reviews, including briefings to upper management and external customers on high-visibility projects.

We are hiring in the following areas:

• Pit Reacceptance PRT: Responsible for design, product definition, and qualification of equipment and processes related to pit reacceptance, including radiography, surface analysis, Laser Gas Sampling, and mass properties. Regular interface with LANL and Pantex.
• Secondary PRT (non-metals): Responsible for design, development, and qualification of equipment and processes for secondary components, focusing on non-metals process qualification, inspection, and related technologies. Regular interface with LANL and Y-12.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:

R&D Engineer 2 ($101,700-$168,200):

• Knowledge of engineering principles demonstrated through research, design, testing, analysis, verification, and validation.
• Experience in designing, planning, and executing R&D projects; ability to read engineering drawings and specifications.
• Clear communication skills, both verbal and written.

Additional Requirements for R&D Engineer 3 ($122,300-$206,300):

• Thorough knowledge and experience equivalent to R&D Engineer 2.
• Experience leading engineering projects and delivering complex solutions.

Education/Experience:

• At least a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering and 4 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination.
• Higher level requires a Master's Degree and 6 years of related experience; a Ph.D. may be preferred.

Desired Qualifications include:

• Active Q clearance or equivalent
• Engineering degree from an ABET-accredited institution
• Experience with nuclear weapon design, development, and qualification
• Knowledge of NNSA facilities, DoD customers, and systems engineering practices

Work Environment

Position is onsite in Los Alamos, NM. The work location is at management's discretion. The position requires a 1-year commitment.

Application Notes:

• Submit a resume and cover letter addressing the qualifications. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
• Domestic travel is required.

Federal restrictions apply regarding access for non-U.S. citizens from certain countries. The position requires a Q clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.

Additional Information:

Los Alamos National Laboratory offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, wellness programs, and relocation packages.

Employment is subject to a background check and drug testing, with federal restrictions on marijuana use.

Los Alamos is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and accessibility.