Quantum Research Technician Helium Liquefaction and Condensed Matter Physics; Research Tec

Overview

The Quantum Group (MPA-Q) in the Materials Physics & Applications Division (MPA) at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking candidates for a Research Technician 2 to support a wide variety of experimental research. This research contributes to LANL mission interests in energy, security, basic science, and nuclear weapons-programs. MPA-Q performs experiments in areas involving high consequences for safety, such as high-power lasers, high magnetic fields, radioactive materials, and cryogens.

MPA-Q is comprised of research scientists, engineers, technologists, technicians, postdocs, and students specializing in experimental physics research, with a strong emphasis on fundamental condensed matter physics with complimentary thrusts in correlated electron materials, high magnetic field science, xray and neutron scattering science, thermal physics, and fundamental and applied research in physics.

The successful candidate will work in a dynamic team environment, on projects and programs for both internal and external customers, providing technical support for these activities including assembly, machining, modification, installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of a wide variety of equipment used in experimental work that enable key experimental capabilities (e.g., pumps, compressors, electro/mechanical equipment, analytical instrumentation, glove boxes, lasers, radiographic equipment, high vacuum and pressure systems, and cryogenic equipment).

In addition, the candidate will operate a helium liquefier and liquid nitrogen dispensing equipment, help with the logistics associated with general shop housekeeping, ensuring that group members have access to the needed hardware, tooling, compressed gases, vacuum pumps, and related components required to reach project milestones. At this level in the R&D Technician job series, the selected candidate will receive supervision and mentoring to do tasks of moderate scope and complexity.

It is expected that the new MPA-Quantum R&D Technician will gain greater depth of knowledge, skill and independence in many functional areas for advancement.

• Conduct high quality technical work in a safe and secure manner.
• Operate cryogen generating and dispensing systems and fulfill cryogenic dewar orders
• Install, maintain, and repair vacuum pumps, compressors, and other electro-mechanical equipment.
• Participate in equipment moves, forklift and crane operation operations, materials logistics, and inventory that involve compressed gases, vacuum equipment, chemicals, cryogens, tooling, etc.
• Work closely with scientists, postdocs and technologists to achieve scientific and technical goals.
• Interface with the group and facility management to address building issues.
• Work with hand and machine tools. Assist with technical shop work-such as machining, plumbing, electronics, mechanical tasks, or carpentry-to support and meet project objectives.

• Demonstrated experience to ensure that all work, materials, processes, and final products meet quality specifications and established requirements.
• Experience doing hands-on mechanical or technical work.
• Experience in the repair of equipment, for example, pumps, compressors, rotary machines, or similar machines.
• Experience maintaining shop organization and readiness - inventory, procurement, orderliness
• Demonstrated experience working successfully in a dynamic team environment.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, etc.) and basic computer processes.

Education/

Experience:

Position requires a High School diploma and a minimum of 3 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

• Experience with forklift and/or hoisting and rigging operations
• Experience with machine-tooling shop equipment (manual lathe/mill, bandsaw, hydraulic press, etc.)
• Basic working knowledge of physics, chemistry, mathematics, and/or engineering

Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation):
Sitting, walking, climbing stairs, bending, kneeling, twisting the trunk or back, reaching overhead, applying torque with hands or arms, fine motor control, use of both hands, lifting 30 pounds. Operate normal government vehicles (pickup truck, minivan, car), on site and off site, for equipment and experimental logistics. Does not require commercial drivers license (CDL).

This position is in close proximity to experimental researchers, machinery with moving parts, and cleaning chemicals, and other chemicals. Use of personal protective equipment (safety glasses, face shield, mask, hand protection, and safety shoes) will be required.

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their…