HEAF Explosives Research Experimental Lead

HEAF Explosives Research Experimental Lead

Entry Level | Full-time | Physical Life Sciences | Livermore, CA

Reference #: REF
8545T |
Job Code: SES.
1 Science & Engineering MTS 1 / SES.
2 Science & Engineering MTS 2 |
Organization: Physical and Life Sciences |
Position Type: Flexible Term |
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

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

We have an opening for an Explosives Research Experimental Lead in the High Explosives Applications Facility (HEAF). You will lead experimental activities involving the use of high explosives and other energetic materials supporting the stewardship of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, conventional weapons design, counter terrorism efforts, and commercial partnerships. This position is in the Explosives Performance Research and Technologies (ExPRT) group within the Energetic Materials & Design (EMD) section of the Materials Science Division, supporting the Energetic Materials Center (EMC).

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

This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

• Work under guidance to research, evaluate, design, and test explosive systems and materials for multiple projects.
• Support research efforts by adhering to high safety standards while supporting high-energy, multi-hazard experiments.
• Plan, execute, diagnose, analyze, and interpret data from explosively driven experiments in collaboration with diagnostics operators, other scientists, and technical personnel. Document and report results, identify problems, plan projects to solve problems, and communicate lessons learned.
• Prepare safety and engineering documentation and reports required for safe, compliant, and efficient execution of experiments.
• Contribute original scientific/engineering solutions to the design of explosive experiments.
• Develop experimental requirements and oversee the implementation of the various components of the experiment; monitor the assembly of the experimental hardware to ensure specifications are met.
• Support explosives production supply chain to ensure samples are produced on schedule and to the required quality.
• Perform technical quality assurance checks on experiments, including setup, alignment, and execution of dry-runs to ensure high-quality data within funding targets.
• Present and disseminate research results to sponsors and document experimental setup and results in open and classified environments. Participate in design reviews and analyses and present materials to internal and external audiences.
• Travel minimally based on project needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Manage and oversee multiple parallel experiments at different development stages, including arming and firing.
• Identify, advocate, and facilitate additional diagnostics and data analysis techniques for explosively driven hydrodynamic experiments; work with diagnostic designers to develop and integrate new capabilities.
• Lead moderately complex to complex projects requiring careful planning and teamwork.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-Level security clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship.
• Bachelor’s degree in physics, engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Fundamental to comprehensive understanding of a specific area of science or engineering applicable to explosives characterization or safety testing.
• Experience performing hands-on experimental science in bench top and/or test facility environments with familiarity in regulated environments.
• Fundamental knowledge of hazardous material supply chain logistics.
• Experience managing small to medium-sized technical projects.
• Demonstrated self-motivation and initiative, and creative problem solving.
• Experience working independently and in a multi-disciplinary team to achieve goals.
• Interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence to work with a wide range of personalities.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for documenting and presenting results.
• Proficiency in standard office software.
• Ability to obtain and maintain certification as a High Explosive Handler.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. in a safe and controlled manner.

• Broad knowledge across physics, engineering, mathematics, mechanical, aerospace, or nuclear engineering or related field.
• Broad experience leading a multidisciplinary team.
• Proven record of completing or leading high-quality research in relevant areas.

$121,830 - $154,500…