Explosive Modeler - Staff Scientist

Job Description

We are hiring a Staff Scientist to perform research, development, and application activities in support of Laboratory missions. The role involves developing and validating advanced high‑explosive detonation models, interacting with experimental groups to incorporate data into models, and providing solutions to complex problems. The position is located in the Reaction Dynamics Group within the Energetic Materials & Design (EMD) section of the Materials Science Division supporting the Energetic Materials Center (EMC).

A hybrid schedule may be available after a probationary period.

• Develop advanced high explosive detonation models based on fundamental chemical and physical mechanisms.
• Interact with experimental groups and incorporate information from advanced experiments into current and developmental high explosives models to improve model fidelity.
• Systematically validate models against a suite of experimental data.
• Develop uncertainty quantification methods using statistical approaches and/or machine learning.
• Provide solutions and creative approaches to ensure project needs are addressed in a timely and efficient manner.
• Contribute to project/program milestone completion and provide solutions to complex problems that may not be well defined.
• Interact with the physics and engineering design staff and other users to support responsive model development and insertion options.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Contribute to developing a strategy to improve detonation models by incorporating initial conditions, morphology, and chemical variations to expand capabilities into adjacent domains.
• Actively support and guide experimental campaigns involving energetic materials to benchmark current models and advance model development to address complex problems relevant to national security missions.
• Create innovative methods, technologies, and knowledge in detonation modeling.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• PhD in chemistry, physics, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Knowledge of shock wave physics, physical and chemical kinetics, statistical and thermodynamic methods.
• Familiarity with scientific programming, code development practices, and proficiency in one or more high-level programming/scripting languages.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills necessary to deliver presentations and prepare written reports, explain technical information.
• Advanced interpersonal skills necessary to interact with a diverse set of scientists, engineers, and other technical and administrative staff.

• Demonstrated expertise in detonation physics and energetic materials modeling.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex technical projects and a strong track record mentoring scientific staff.
• Strong track record of publications and/or technical reporting.

• Experience working in energetic materials research at a Department of Energy (DOE) and/or Department of Defense (DoD) facility or equivalent with stringent safety and security policies.
• Knowledge of supercomputer applications in material modeling and energetic materials research.
• Knowledge of machine learning techniques applicable to material model development and/or complex hydrodynamic simulations.

$175,530 – $267,060 annually (base salary). For SES.
3: $175,530 – $222,564 annually. For SES.
4: $210,630 – $267,060 annually. Salary is based on qualifications, experience, and performance.

This is a Flexible Term appointment for a definite period not to exceed six years. If selected as a Career Indefinite employee, indefinite status may be maintained subject to funding.

• Flexible benefits package.
• 401(k) plan.
• Relocation assistance.
• Education reimbursement program.
• Flexible schedules depending on project needs.
• Workforce of inclusion and equity resources.

Position requires a DOE Q-level clearance. U.S. citizenship is required. Clearance is maintained through a background investigation and regular drug testing.

External applicants selected for this position must pass a post‑offer, pre‑employment drug test.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to providing all with 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.

We provide reasonable accommodations for all candidates and employees during the recruitment and hiring process.