Advanced Manufacturing & Mission Realization Lead; R&D Engineer

Position: Advanced Manufacturing & Mission Realization Lead (R&D Engineer 4)
** What You Will Do*
* You will lead the transformation of innovative concepts into tangible, mission-ready solutions for national security applications. As part of the Mission Concepts (E-2) group, you will operate in advanced manufacturing, systems engineering, and rapid prototyping, helping accelerate ideas from early-stage concepts through proof-of-concept and beyond.

In this role, you will:

+ Drive end-to-end execution of complex R&D efforts, translating ambiguous ideas into structured, executable plans and deliverable outcomes.

+   Lead multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, technologists, and technicians to realize high-impact mission solutions.

+   Plan, resource, and manage projects using formal tools (e.g., Primavera, MS Project), including work package development and execution.

+   Develop and author work planning and control documentation, ensuring alignment with operational and safety requirements.

+   Operate effectively in an integrated R&D and operations environment, balancing agility with rigor.

+   Work within a highly collaborative team structure, taking technical direction from lead scientists and engineers, and partnering closely with peers-including experienced early-career engineers-to achieve mission outcomes.

+   Leverage and expand networks across the laboratory and national security enterprise to enable rapid problem-solving and collaboration.

+   Deliver clear, compelling technical briefings to senior leadership and external stakeholders, including NNSA.

+   Apply expertise in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering disciplines to guide design, fabrication, and system integration efforts.

+   Contribute to and shape capabilities in agile and additive manufacturing, spanning low to high technology readiness levels, including work with novel materials and processes

** What You Need*
* Minimum

Job Requirements:

+ Demonstrated experience leading complex R&D projects from concept to execution, especially in advanced manufacturing, systems engineering, or rapid prototyping.

+   Proven experience leading large technical teams (engineers, scientists, technologists, technicians) to deliver mission-focused solutions.

+   Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Primavera, MS Project) for planning, resourcing, and executing work packages.

+   Strong technical writing skills for authoring work planning and control documentation, with attention to operational and safety requirements.

+   Ability to operate effectively in integrated R&D and operations environments, balancing agility with rigor.

+   Excellent collaboration skills, including working under technical direction, partnering with peers and mentoring early-career engineers.

+   Effective communication skills for delivering technical briefings to senior leadership and external stakeholders.

+   Expertise in mechanical, electrical, or related engineering disciplines, guiding design, fabrication, and system integration.

+   

Experience with agile and additive manufacturing, including work with novel materials and processes.

+   Strong track record of innovation, publications, or technical contributions.

** Education/

Experience:

** Position requires a Master's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 12 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.  At this level a Ph.D. may be preferred.

** Desired

Qualifications:

*
* + Strong background or demonstrated interest in robotics integration, including hands-on implementation, troubleshooting, and system optimization.

+  Experience supporting or driving digital transformation efforts, modernizing workflows, introducing automation, or improving data/process efficiency.

+  Familiarity with metrology, precision measurement systems, instrumentation, or related quality-assurance practices.

+  A proactive, execution-focused mindset, someone who is driven to get things done, can work independently, removes roadblocks, and delivers results reliably.

+  Ability to work across interdisciplinary teams (engineering, operations, research) and communicate clearly about technical challenges and solutions.

+ …