W93 Mechanical Engineer; R&D Engineer

Overview

This role is a Research and Development Engineer 2/3 on the Mechanical Qualification team within the W93 System Development and Realization Group (Q‑20) at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Candidates will work closely with the Mechanical Qualification Lead and cross‑functional partners to plan, execute, and report on tests and analyses that support the qualification of the Navy’s new sub‑launched ballistic missile warhead system.

• Plan and conduct mechanical tests and analyses to meet program requirements for tactical War Reserve and surveillance Joint Test Assemblies.
• Document and relay critical qualification evidence to stakeholders including the NNSA, U.S. Navy, Sandia National Laboratories, and Lockheed Martin Space.
• Manage test and analysis schedules, budgets, and progress reports; coordinate with internal LANL organizations and external partners.
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to a collaborative, interdisciplinary qualification environment.
• Participate in cross‑disciplinary team activities to ensure safe, secure, and reliable weapon system performance.

• Demonstrated engineering knowledge in research, design, testing, and analysis of complex systems.
• Experience planning and executing tests or analyses that satisfy data needs of multiple stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with proven presentation experience.
• U.S. citizenship; Q Clearance (or ability to obtain) required.

• All Engineer 2 qualifications plus:
  • Leadership experience managing diverse R&D teams and mentoring early‑career personnel.
  • Collaboration skills in cross‑organizational problem‑solving.
  • In‑depth knowledge of structural dynamic testing, signal processing, and technical documentation.
  • Experience interfacing with DoD, NNSA, and other agencies to build consensus and resolve conflicts.
  • Excellent program management, overseeing complex, high‑profile projects on time and within budget.

Engineer 2:
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (or equivalent) with 4 years of related experience.
Engineer 3:
Master’s degree in Engineering (or equivalent) with 6 years of related experience;
Ph.D. may be preferred.

• Nuclear Weapon Lifecycle experience, preferably in U.S. Navy systems.
• Requirements engineering expertise, including derivation, traceability, and verification.
• Mechanical Engineering undergrad degree.
• Active Q Clearance or ability to obtain.

• High‑deductible or PPO medical and dental plans.
• Basic life, disability, and tuition assistance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Flexible schedule, paid time off, and relocation support.
• Onsite wellness facilities.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal‑opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, devoid of discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected category. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request. Contact applyhelp or (505)‑664‑6947 for assistance.