R&D Design and Fabrication Machinist Technologist; Research Technologist

What You Will Do

Join our Team! The High Explosives Science and Technology (Q-5) group is seeking a research technologist with comprehensive machining experience to provide technical support and expertise in the design, fabrication, and assembly of components used in research and development experiments. In this role, you will work closely with scientists, engineers, and other technical staff to bring their research ideas and prototype designs to life.

High Explosive Science & Technology (Q-5) Group serves the Laboratory and nation by providing the knowledge base in high explosives (HE) testing for the Nuclear Weapons Program and other national security areas. The group specializes in a broad array of energetic materials science including development (synthesis and formulation) and testing of novel explosives, pilot plant production of explosive materials, advanced manufacturing of explosives, analytical chemistry of explosives and explosives ingredients, detonation performance testing, and special security projects.

This posting is under the Associate Laboratory Directorate for Weapons Engineering (ALDW).

• Collaborate with project teams to plan and refine prototype designs, contributing your technical knowledge and problem‑solving skills.
• Fabricate and assemble complex components from a variety of materials, working from drawings, sketches, and verbal instructions to meet exacting specifications.
• Develop new procedures and protocols to support the evolving needs of research projects.
• Recommend solutions to issues that may affect project requirements or timelines.

The project portfolios you will support are diverse, requiring excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with researchers from various backgrounds.

This role is an excellent opportunity for a technically‑inclined individual who is passionate about supporting cutting‑edge research and development. If you have a strong background in machining, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, we encourage you to apply.

Research Technologists 1: $85,900 – $139,900

• Experience in operation and maintenance of manual and CNC machining equipment.
• Comprehensive understanding of machining processes, tools, and operations to obtain various tolerances.
• Experience in design and manufacturing of parts, fixturing, and complex assemblies.
• Proficient knowledge and ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to problem‑solve R&D solutions from design to fabrication.
• Knowledge and experience in prototype machining operations including CNC machining and manual machine tools.
• Extensive experience in testing, maintenance, and troubleshooting of mechanical systems and tooling.
• CAD/CAM knowledge.
• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution and 2 years related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

• Journeyman machinist certification
• High explosives handler qualification
• Qualified to transport high explosives
• Experience machining of pyrophoric materials (i.e. magnesium, titanium, etc)

Work location:

onsite in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management. Position commitment: 1 year. Regular appointment employees required to serve a period of continuous service in current position to be eligible for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory.

• Apply online and upload a cover letter and resume. The cover letter must address the candidate experience and how it applies to the opening.

Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and…