Electrical Engineer ; R&D Engineer

Position: Electrical Engineer 1 (R&D Engineer 1)
** What You Will Do*
* ** This position is open for external candidates only to apply.*
* ** The  Accelerator Operations and Technology Division is seeking an Engineer  to join the Accelerator Operations Group at the Los Alamos Neutron  Science Center (LANSCE), a premier high-energy accelerator facility  supporting national security, scientific research, and isotope  production.*
* ** The selected candidate will join the Protective Systems Team and play a key role in the design, implementation, and sustainment of safety-critical interlock and protection systems that safeguard personnel and accelerator equipment. This position involves developing and supporting PLC-based controls, analog and digital circuitry, and FPGA-based systems to ensure robust, fail-safe operation in a high-reliability environment.*
* ** This is a hands-on engineering role that spans the full system lifecycle, including hardware design, in-house repair and upgrades, system integration, and operational support. Responsibilities include troubleshooting complex systems using diagnostic tools such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers, supporting field installation and commissioning, and maintaining high system availability.*
* ** The position also contributes directly to next-generation protective systems associated with the LANSCE Accelerator Modernization Project (LAMP). This work requires close collaboration across engineering, operations, and safety organizations to ensure designs meet functional and safety requirements, integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure, and are delivered on schedule.*
* ** Working within a multidisciplinary team, the candidate will help develop and deploy robust, high-performance protection systems that enable safe and continuous accelerator operations in a mission-critical environment.*
* ** R&D Engineer 1 ($96,400 - $158,000)*
* ** As part of this role, you'll have the opportunity to:*
* + Maintain and support critical personnel and equipment protection systems at the LANSCE Accelerator Facility.

+ Design, test, implement, and document new and upgraded protective systems, including schematics and drawings.

+ Troubleshoot and develop digital, analog, and mixed-signal electronics, including PLCs, FPGAs, microcontrollers, and PCB design.

+ Complete formal training and participate in an on-call rotation, including occasional nights and weekends.

+ Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams and support system installations, including outdoor work, ladder use, and entry into controlled radiation areas when needed.

** What You Need*
* ** Minimum

Job Requirements:

*
* + Proven experience in designing both analog and digital electronic circuits.

+ Skilled in troubleshooting complex systems using tools such as oscilloscopes, DVMs, and function generators.

+ Proficient in reading and interpreting schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.

+ Knowledge of multiple programming languages, including embedded C, Verilog/VHDL, and ladder logic.

+ Familiar with low-level FPGA and microcontroller development.

+ Experienced with CAD/ECAD software such as AutoCAD, Mentor Graphics, or Altium Designer.

+ Ability to obtain a Q clearance (U.S. citizenship typically required).

** Education/Experience**  **:
Position requires a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from an accredited institution plus 2 years of related; or an equivalent combination of education and technical experience directly related to the occupation.*
* ** Desired Qualifications**  **:*
* + Strong PLC background, including Allen-Bradley networks, ladder logic, and Panel View configuration.

+ Experience designing relay-based interlock systems.

+ Proficient in PCB layout, sourcing, fabrication, and troubleshooting.

+ Skilled in translating designs into technical drawings and documentation.

+ Full lifecycle experience with electronic devices, from requirements and prototyping to installation, testing, and documentation.

** Note to Applicants**  **:
For full consideration, applicants must submit a comprehensive cover letter that addresses each of the key requirements of the position.*
* ** Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.*
* ** Essential Job Functions**   **(can perform with or without reasonable accommodation):
Vision and motor skills. Ability to climb ladders and stairs.*
* ** Work Location**  **:
The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the…