Space Instrument Development and Fabrication Technician (Development and Fabrication Tec 3/4)
Los Alamos National Laboratory
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Benefits offered by this job
Job summary
Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking a Development and Fabrication Technician to join the ISR-5 Space Instrument Realization Group. You will work on the XAPS project within the SNDD program, building and testing electromechanical instrument components and assemblies for national security and space science applications.
The role covers design interpretation, fixture development, and collaboration with engineers and scientists.
Qualifications
- Problem solving: Demonstrated ability to identify problems and generate solutions.
- Communication & teamwork: collaborate effectively with diverse technical teams and document results.
- Technical: experience with mechanical inspection, shop tools, and reading engineering drawings.
- Safety: commitment to safety, security, environment, and quality.
Responsibilities
- Assemble, test, and modify electrical and mechanical components and systems.
- Procure mechanical parts and assembly components for instrument development.
- Interpret drawings and perform inspections using hand tools and CMMs.
- Generate design, assembly, and test documentation and perform in-process inspections.
Skills
Education
Job description
This position will be filled at either the Development and Fabrication Technician 3 or 4 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 ISR-5 Space Instrument Realization Group seeks a Development and Fabrication Technician to join our Integration and Test (I&T) team. The ideal candidate will be a highly collaborative and creative problem-solver, able to build a wide range of complex electromechanical instruments and systems. ISR-5 provides engineering and technical expertise to develop and deploy high-quality space- and ground-based measurement systems for national security and basic space science applications.
The Intelligence and Space Research (ISR) Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory has been designing, building, and operating highly innovative ground, air and space-based measurement and detection systems for 60 years. Our work includes space-based measurement systems for verification of international nuclear treaties, basic scientific missions, nuclear nonproliferation, space situational awareness, and remote sensing. In addition, we lead experiments on NASA missions, including the Curiosity and Perseverance Mars Rovers, Van Allen Probes, IMAP, and IBEX.
This position will support the X-ray and Particle Sensor (XAPS) project team in the Space-based Nuclear Detonation Detection (SNDD) program by developing, designing, and fabricating parts, fixtures, and assemblies used in hardware critical to national security. The XAPS project is a fast-moving, team-oriented environment that balances production of current-generation treaty verification hardware with research and development of future designs. This position will be a critical member of a high-functioning team of technicians, engineers, and scientists. The role interacts regularly with project, government, and commercial partners and is often the first point of contact for hardware fabrication and product assembly. Adherence to safety, security, and best fabrication practices is imperative for success in this position. The ideal candidate will differentiate themselves through enthusiasm, a passion for space, and a strong collaborative mindset.
On any given day, you may be called to:
- Assemble, test, and modify electrical and mechanical components, assemblies, and systems that include specialized functions.
- Procure mechanical fabricated parts and other assembly related components for instrument development and assembly.
- Interpret part and assembly design drawings and ability to perform inspections using hand inspection tools as well as Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM's).
- Generate design, assembly, and test documentation as appropriate and perform in-process inspection to assure product quality.
- Collaborate with team members to identify problems and implement solutions.
- Utilize inspection support equipment during R&D and production efforts for requirements verification.
- Participate as a contributing Integration & Test team member, open to being mentored and developing technical skillsets.
- Embrace safety and security policies, programs, procedures, and practices. Make safety and security an integral part of every task, including taking the necessary steps to stop work if continuing the job is unsafe or compromises security.
- Promote a mutually respectful work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.
- Perform field troubleshooting on systems and test equipment using detailed drawings, manuals, and written instructions.
Apply technical knowledge to propose solutions to complex design challenges. This includes interpreting design drawings and acting as a liaison between the project and its partner groups. Candidates should be comfortable working with mechanical and electrical systems such as standard laboratory and shop equipment, vacuum and pressure systems, measurement machines, mechanical tooling, and fixtures. This position may design mechanical assemblies, develop test procedures, acquire test data, document test results, or troubleshoot custom assemblies and systems. The candidate should be able to work independently as well as part of a team and actively seek to improve work processes to meet customer needs.
This position will be expected to perform all the tasks above in addition to independently developing work plans, leading and reviewing other employees' work, and mentoring junior staff. The position may assist in leading instrument integration, performing verification testing, and managing delivery and integration to external customers. At this level, the role will have regular contact with the broader project team including other technicians, scientists, and engineers, as well as external partners. At this level, candidates should display advanced knowledge of a wide range of mechanical tools, materials, and systems.
Demonstrated ability to identify problems and generate solutions. Ability to absorb large volumes of information from a variety of sources and synthesize it into key elements and requirements. Strong attention to detail. Ability to understand and navigate internal and Laboratory policies and processes.
Ability to work independently as well as collaborate effectively with teams of diverse technical backgrounds. This position will integrate with diverse teams to develop and apply innovative solutions to complex technical problems. Demonstrated written and verbal communication, active listening, interpersonal, and organizational skills are critical.
Demonstrated experience handling delicate parts and instruments while performing mechanical inspection and assembly. Experience using machine shop and laboratory tools, measurement equipment, and hand tools. Ability to develop alternative approaches and recommend solutions for complex mechanical problems. Ability to read, understand, review, and edit engineering procedures, drawings, layouts, and other related instructions.
Safety and security are the highest priority for executing work at Los Alamos. Candidate must have demonstrated record of commitment to safety, security, environment, and quality.
Advanced skills in mechanical development, troubleshooting, testing, and verification. Demonstrated experience with a wide range of fabrication machinery and equipment including specialty hardware. Experience designing, testing, and integrating spaceflight hardware or assemblies of similar complexity and delicacy.
Demonstrated experience mentoring staff. Verbal and written skills sufficient to capture knowledge and transfer it to others. Ability to represent the project across ISR, other groups within LANL, external vendors and customers.
Experience delivering products on schedule while being involved in multiple work flows with competing priorities. Ability to learn, mentor and be mentored to complete job functions as part of a team and execute tasks independently.
Position requires an associate's degree and a minimum of 3 years relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Position requires an associate's degree and a minimum of 5 years relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
- Experience working with spaceflight hardware
- Technical and Procedure writing experience
- Experience participating in setup and execution of research and development test campaigns
- Demonstrated experience working with and handling sensitive information
- Working knowledge of LANL procurement process
- Prototype machining, fabrication, 3D printing experience
- 3D modeling design software experience
- Experience or interest in conducting research, investigating alternative solutions, and recommending solutions on problems affecting electronic and mechanical systems and/or equipment
- Ability to read and understand engineering instructions, drawings, layouts, and other related specifications
- Knowledge of aerospace industry, regulatory, or DOE/NNSA Complex codes and standards
Please provide a comprehensive cover letter that details how you meet the qualifications for this position.
- Physical movement between buildings located primarily within a half-mile radius, which may include movement across uneven and/or inclined ground.
- Physical movement within large interior facility spaces and corridors, which may require travel up and down stairs.
- Direct interaction with hardware, equipment, and instruments in office and laboratory environments.
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.
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (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.
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 this 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 US 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.
- Eligibility requirements: 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.
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, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
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