Cryogenic Operations Field Lead Technologist

Cryogenic Operations Field Lead Technologist

Mid-Senior Level | Full‑time

Engineering | Livermore, CA | 06/16/2026

Reference #: REF
8472W

Job Code: 533.3 Sr Technologist-Mechanical

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 Apply Now

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world‑changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans four critical national security areas: nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi‑domain defense – empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

We have an opening for a Cryogenics (Cryo) Operations Field Lead Technologist. You will first qualify as a Cryogenic System Operator (CSO) to learn the role in which you will eventually lead. You will support the Cryogenic and Target Systems and Large Positioners operations group of the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science Directorate (NIF & PS). You will establish scope of work and provide advanced technical solutions in development, operation, and maintenance of cryogenic processes and subsystem operations related to fielding targets in the cryogenic target positioning systems.

This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division of the Engineering Directorate.

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

• Provide advanced technical support while applying fundamental knowledge of installation and operation of complex cryo systems for maintenance and commissioning activities and maintain operational status of NIF facility subsystems.
• Maintain the daily operational schedule with real‑time problem resolution, ensuring the set up and operation of intricate cryo systems and equipment, comprehensive troubleshooting and maintenance, and advanced methods of data collection.
• Provide technical guidance and direction to the Cryogenic technician staff to meet changing priorities on the floor and in the Control Room, under minimal supervision/direction.
• Communicate and coordinate Cryogenic and Target Systems and Large Positioners activities with the supervisory staff in the NIF Control Room.
• Analyze process improvements for complex technical problems and develop and author procedures, manuals, and qualifications.
• Provide technical expertise, advice, and direction to technicians, making frequent decisions with regular, independent interaction with scientists, engineers, and skilled technical personnel with follow‑up to supervisor outside of work group.
• Serve as primary technical contact for the Cryogenic System and its components to respond in real‑time to off‑normal occurrences.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q‑level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Associate’s degree in Mechanical technology or related field, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Advanced skills and understanding of relevant technologies and processes, including interpreting and utilizing cryo group equipment, vacuum systems, and ability to solve hardware or system challenges.
• Experience providing technical direction to others in a technical operations or R&D environment.
• Ability to regularly make decisions, solve problems, establish and/or modify guidelines, techniques, and procedures.
• Proven ability to establish appropriate work methods and set priorities.
• Experience working with formal procedures, work controls, and configuration management.
• Ability to work in confined or restricted movement areas, climb stairs, stand, or walk for long periods of time.
• Ability to work in areas of Beryllium and…