Controls Technologist; Research Technologist

What You Will Do

The Integrated Weapons Experiments (J) Division, Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test (DARHT) Engineering Operations and Physics (J-6) Group is looking for a Controls Technician who will work as a Research Technologist 1 or 2. This full‑time position is located at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) and requires on‑site work. The role supports the DARHT accelerators and associated test facilities by providing accelerator control system hardware support.

• Support, troubleshoot, and maintain the dual‑axis electron beam accelerator’s control systems.
• Diagnose failures or malfunctions in the hardware sections of the control system, repair or replace equipment using specialized tools, detailed drawings, and manuals.
• Document existing and future control hardware systems and components, preparing required documents and collaborating with computer‑aided drafters.
• Design, construct, install, test, document, and operate control system components for various test stands.
• Adhere to the principles of Formal Operations, including Conduct of Operations, Conduct of Maintenance, Conduct of Engineering, and Conduct of Training.

Compensation: $87,800 – $143,000.

Compensation: $96,600 – $158,000. In addition to the duties of Research Technologist 1, perform the same job duties with minimal supervision and recommend appropriate solutions as needed.

• Demonstrated experience working with Electrical, Instrumentation and Controls (EI&C) circuits.
• Self‑starter able to complete tasks under minimal supervision.
• Ability to read and understand complex schematics, including wiring, troubleshooting, and documentation.
• Independent troubleshooting of EI&C systems.
• Compliance with configuration management and formal documentation processes.
• Willingness to acquire new skills and step out of comfort zone.
• Capability to perform duties while working on ladders or elevated platforms.
• Position requires a Q clearance; applicants must be U.S. citizens or otherwise eligible to obtain a Q clearance.

• Advanced ability to generate, read, and understand complex schematics.
• Experience working effectively as a team member on large projects and independently on smaller assignments.
• Proficiency with common electronic tools and test equipment such as DVMs and oscilloscopes.
• Experience with PLCs, SCADA software, and industrial communication protocols.

Research Technologist 1:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and 2 years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Research Technologist 2:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and 5 years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Experience with EMI/RFI wiring and shielding theory.
• Experience generating electrical schematics.
• Experience with control systems of linear accelerators or other large‑scale facilities.
• Proficiency with complex multi‑channel PLC/computer‑based control systems.
• Familiarity with Schneider’s PLC, HMI, and SCADA.
• Familiarity with distributed control hardware such as Quantum remote I/O.
• Experience designing and upgrading controls for gas handling (flow/pressure controllers), power supplies, and vacuum systems.
• Experience developing, implementing, and/or following maintenance and QA plans.

Outdoor, confined space, heights, underground, working alone, overtime or irregular schedule, foreign travel, motor vehicle operation, working with weapons or explosives, vibrating equipment, machinery with moving parts, toxic or irritant chemicals, dusts or powders, sprays or mists, fumes or vapors, carcinogens, hearing protection, hand protection, safety shoes, headgear, safety glasses, face shield, mask or respirator.

Onsite 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 of one year to be eligible for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory.

• PPO or high‑deductible…