NEST Training & Exercise Program Lead - Clearance Required

Mid‑Senior Level | Full‑time
Engineering | Livermore, CA | 06/15/2026
Reference #: REF
8475L
Job Code: SES.
3 Science & Engineering MTS 3 / SES.
4 Science & Engineering MTS 4
Organization: Engineering
Position Type: Career Indefinite
Security Clearance: Active DOE Q clearance (or active Top Secret clearance)
Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
Medical Exam: Not applicable
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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 Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST) Training & Exercise Program Lead supporting the NEST within the N Program of the Global Security (GS) Directorate. This role serves as a senior technical and programmatic leader responsible for the strategy, development, integration, and execution of NEST training and exercise programs  will lead the design and delivery of high‑fidelity, mission‑driven training systems that support national‑level nuclear emergency response operations.

The scope includes coordination across multidisciplinary technical teams and collaboration with interagency partners to ensure training effectiveness, operational readiness, and alignment with mission requirements. This position is within the National Security Engineering Division (NSED) in the Engineering Directorate.

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

Additional responsibilities will be assigned based on the level at which you are hired.

• Lead the planning, integration, and execution of NEST training and exercise programs, including complex multi‑agency activities supporting Device Response (DR) operations.
• Develop and implement realistic operational scenarios, training plans, and performance metrics to evaluate readiness and mission effectiveness.
• Coordinate with LLNL organizations and external partners (e.g., NNSA, DoD, DoJ) to align training objectives, requirements, and execution strategies.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to multidisciplinary teams in the design, development, and deployment of training systems, simulation environments, and operational tools.
• Oversee the lifecycle of training programs, including concept development, design, execution, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure training activities comply with safety, security, and classification requirements while supporting operational objectives.
• Represent LLNL in interactions with internal leadership and external stakeholders on training‑related initiatives and activities.
• Analyze training outcomes and operational feedback to refine approaches, improve performance, and support mission readiness.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Establish and drive long‑term strategy, priorities, and vision for NEST training and exercise programs aligned with national mission requirements.
• Serve as the primary LLNL authority and recognized subject‑matter expert for NEST training with interagency partners and senior stakeholders.
• Direct and lead multidisciplinary technical team, including responsibility for work planning, task assignment, and performance oversight.
• Influence program direction, resource allocation, and integration of new capabilities to enhance training effectiveness and operational impact.

• Active DOE Q‑level clearance or active Top Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physical sciences, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Advanced knowledge of training program development, execution, and evaluation within complex technical or operational environments.
• Signifi…