Advanced Manufacturing & Mission Realization Lead; R&D Engineer

Position: Advanced Manufacturing & Mission Realization Lead (R&D Engineer 3/4)
** What You Will Do*
* ** This position will be filled at either the R&D 3 or 4 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate.  Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.*
* ** R&D Engineer 3 ($128,000-$215,900)*
* You will play an integral leadership role as part of a multidisciplinary team, facilitating 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.

** R&D Engineer 4 ($153,600-$266,500)*
* In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, you will have experience leading large multidisciplinary teams and be able to communicate technical updates with senior leadership/external stakeholders. Additionally, proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Primavera, MS Project) and a record of authoring complex technical documents will set you apart.

** What You Need*
* ** Minimum

Job Requirements:

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

+   Experience working with large technical teams (engineers, scientists, technologists, technicians) to deliver mission-focused solutions.

+   Familiarity with project management tools 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 and updates.

+   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.

** Additional

Job Requirements for the R&D Engineer 4*
* + 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.

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

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

** Education/Experience at lower level** :
Position requires a Master's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 6 years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

** Education/Experience at higher level** :
Master's degree in engineering and 12 years of related experience; or equivalent combination. 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.

+  Comfortable working in fast-moving environments with evolving priorities.

+  Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a continuous-improvement mentality.

+ Active DOE Q clearance (or the ability to obtain).

*
* Work Location:

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

** Position commitment:
** Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.

** Note to Applicants:*
* Please submit a detailed resume and cover letter highlighting your…