Research & Development Mechanical Engineer; R&D Engineer

What You Will Do

The selected candidate will join the Explosive Applications and Special Projects Group (M‑6) within the Dynamic Experiments Division of Los Alamos National Laboratory. Depending on the level of qualification, the role will be filled as an R&D Engineer 2 or 3. The position requires translating experimental concepts into field‑ready mechanical designs, selecting materials, coordinating procurement, performing metrology, and supporting data analysis.

• Design, engineer, and assemble mechanical systems for dynamic experiments.
• Design and fabricate test fixtures for dynamic experiments.
• Develop assembly procedures and lead assembly efforts for large and complex experiments.
• Work with machine shops and vendors to fabricate experimental parts.
• Support analysis of data collected from dynamic experiments.
• Perform inspection of received parts to ensure they meet requirements.

• Participate in collaborations with DOE, DoD, and other federal agencies.
• Assist in the development of intellectual property and contribute to reports and presentations.
• Define strategic plans with team members and customers to maintain and advance experimental programs.
• Work with customers to evaluate and define material and tolerancing needs.
• Mentor students, junior staff, and peers for technical and professional growth.

Minimum

Job Requirements:

• Technical: Knowledge and experience in design, drafting, and communication under regular supervision.
• Design: Experience contributing to the planning and execution of R&D projects; proficiency with mechanical design and analysis software, preferably Solid Works.
• Drafting: Drafting practices, GD&T, and engineering specifications; working with machine shops.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal, presentation, and written skills.
• Delivery: Ability to work to a defined scope, schedule, and budget both independently and as part of a team.

Additional Requirements for R&D Engineer 3:

• Demonstrated independent contributions that benefit a broad spectrum of projects.
• Demonstrated mentoring experience.

Education/

Experience:

• R&D Engineer 2:
  Bachelor's degree in engineering (ABET accredited) + 4 years of related experience.
• R&D Engineer 3:
  Master's degree in engineering (ABET accredited) + 6 years of related experience;
  PhD may be preferred.

Desired

Qualifications:

• Documented record of technical achievement in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Experience with fabrication processes, part inspections, and metrology.
• Experience with assembly of complex devices in a team environment.
• Understanding of dynamic experimental diagnostics (e.g., piezo pins, PDV, high‑speed imaging).
• Analytical ability at levels ranging from hand calculations to complex data analysis.
• Experience conducting tests and experiments in laboratories and/or outdoors.
• Experience working with hazardous environments (energetic systems, radiological materials, chemicals).
• Experience working in a multidisciplinary team.

• PPO or HD medical insurance with extensive nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Free basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• Award‑winning 401(k) (6% match plus 3.5% annually).
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance.
• Flexible schedules and PTO (holidays).
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Extensive relocation packages (outside 50‑mile radius).

Los Alamos, NM – onsite. All locations are at management discretion.

Q clearance required (U.S. citizenship except in rare circumstances). A background investigation will be conducted. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship and minimum age 18.

Successful applicants must complete a new‑employment drug test. A positive test for marijuana will result in termination, except where federal law requires otherwise.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal‑opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information, or citizenship, within the limits imposed by law. The Laboratory is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.