Mechanical Engineer​/CAD Modeler; R&D Engineer

What You Will Do

This position will be filled at either the R&D Engineer 2 or R&D Engineer 3 level, depending on the skills and experience of the selected candidate. Additional responsibilities will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.

The Safeguards Science and Technology Group (NEN-1) is seeking an enthusiastic, self‑motivated, results‑oriented R&D Engineer 2 or 3. You will join a cross‑functional, goal‑oriented group of peers dedicated to the mission of developing and deploying nondestructive technologies and concepts in support of domestic and international nuclear safeguards and security.

Our group has a history of advanced and exciting R&D in nuclear material measurement physics and custom instrumentation development, mechanical and electrical engineering design, prototype fabrication, training and education, and opportunities for growth in the field.

You will be responsible for all aspects of mechanical design, developing Solid Works CAD models, complex assemblies, and fabrication drawings to support the group’s safeguards and security mission. You will collaborate with the machine shop and electronics shop and outside vendors to design, refine, and produce mechanical assemblies that integrate electronics and custom components into neutron detector systems. Your role will ensure that designs are manufacturable, precise, and reliable in operational settings.

At the R&D Engineer 2 level, the candidate will be expected to contribute to assigned mechanical design activities in support of safeguards and security projects, assist in the development and implementation of on‑going or new technical efforts, and participate in the development of publications and presentations. The candidate will give presentations at discipline‑specific meetings and may participate in professional societies and program‑specific interactions.

In addition to what is outlined for the R&D Engineer 2 position, the R&D Engineer 3 level candidate will lead technical discussions, develop new methods, techniques or approaches to address critical mechanical design problems, and lead specific project tasks to meet scope, schedule, and budget. The candidate will work on teams to develop proposals and provide mentoring to junior staff.

• Technical R&D
  
  Experience:
  
  Demonstrated knowledge and experience conducting collaborative R&D in Solid Works CAD, designing complex assemblies with hundreds/thousands of parts, producing formal fabrication drawings that follow industry standards, knowledge of manufacturing processes and design‑for‑manufacturing principles, collaborating with machinists and engineers to ensure manufacturability and reliability, and familiarity with tolerances, materials, and precision mechanical design.
• Communication and Teaming: Excellent writing and communication skills, experience working effectively both independently and in a team, and ability to communicate, define, and delegate technical tasks to other team and staff members and engage with clients and collaborators.
• Work Environment: Demonstrated record of fostering a respectful work environment free from discrimination and harassment, ability to resolve conflict positively, give and receive feedback effectively, and work in an office setting.
• Additional Requirements for R&D Engineer 3: Demonstrated experience leading project tasks to completion, developing new methods or approaches to complex mechanical design challenges, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to proposal development.
• Education: R&D Engineer 2 requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering and 4 years of related experience; R&D Engineer 3 requires a Master’s Degree in Engineering and 6 years of related experience (Ph.D. may be preferred).

• Interfacing with machine shop personnel or hands‑on experience with machining processes.
• Experience with detector systems, scientific instrumentation, or precision mechanical design.
• Experience in the safeguards and security field and transitioning R&D prototypes from laboratory to operational facility.
• Ability to obtain and…