Mechanical Engineering Technical Associate - Directed Energy Technologies

Mechanical Engineering Technical Associate - Directed Energy Technologies

Mid-Senior Level | Full-time
Engineering | Livermore, CA | 06/03/2026
Reference #: REF
8433P
Job Code
: 337.1 Engineering Technical Assoc
Organization
:
Engineering
Position Type
:
Career Indefinite
Security Clearance
:
Anticipated DOE Q clearance (requires U.S. citizenship and a federal background investigation)
Drug Test
:
Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
Medical Exam
:
Not applicable

We have an opening for a Mechanical Engineering Technical Associate. You will provide advanced technical support for the Directed Energy Technologies (DET) program and, as needed, broader NIF / Photon Science projects. This role supports the design of experimental, research, and prototype equipment and components for mechanical systems and facility operations. Responsibilities include precision assembly of hardware and facility systems, component-level metrology, complex survey support, and ownership of facility operations and maintenance.

This position includes hands‑on technical work involving complex mechanical systems, prototype equipment, testing operations, and facility readiness. This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division within the Engineering Directorate.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

• Develop original solutions to complex technical problems, determining appropriate work methods and establishing priorities to meet programmatic requirements.
• Provide innovative technical expertise for the design, assembly, integration, testing, qualification, troubleshooting, documentation, component-level metrology, and detailed survey of experimental, research, and prototype equipment and components for complex mechanical systems, based on specifications from engineers and scientists.
• Lead facility operation and maintenance activities, including ownership of maintenance schedules and development and execution of maintenance procedures, to ensure reliable performance and sustained operational readiness.
• Apply industrial metrology principles, including establishing complex 3D coordinate systems, interpreting engineering drawings and GD&T requirements, using specialized metrology software for feature fitting, statistical analysis, and virtual assembly, and evaluating deviation data against design models.
• Provide design, evaluation, review, fabrication, testing, assembly, maintenance, and documentation of complex mechanical systems and associated support equipment.
• Conduct and participate in meetings and design reviews, providing solutions, gathering feedback, documenting decisions and action items, and interfacing with other organizations internal to the Laboratory.
• Provide technical guidance and direction to technologists as needed, making frequent decisions using independent discretion and judgment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical technology, mechanical engineering technology, industrial technology, manufacturing technology, or equivalent combination of education and experience in a technical or engineering field.
• Experience providing advanced hands‑on technical support for complex mechanical systems, prototype systems, and research equipment, including developing and refining test plans, troubleshooting methods, maintenance strategies, and operational plans.
• Advanced knowledge in assembly techniques, mechanical system troubleshooting, testing operations, technical documentation, and maintenance of complex systems.
• Experience participating in engineering testing operations and analyzing results.
• Demonstrated effective interpersonal skills and experience working independently as part of a multidisciplinary team in a schedule‑driven environment.
• Advanced written and verbal communication skills with proven ability to present concepts and ideas in a clear and coherent manner for presentation and interaction with other technical staff members.