Analytical Chemistry Laboratory Technician

What You Will Do

The C-AAC (Actinide Analytical Chemistry) Group within the Chemistry Division has a role available for a Research Technician 3. The position serves the Laboratory's core national security mission areas of weapons science and threat reduction.

The successful candidate will work on one of several teams that handle nuclear material handling, disposition, movement, and chemical analysis. Routine work will involve the preparation and chemical analysis of plutonium samples using numerous analytical techniques. The selected candidate will support the analysis of plutonium metal and other actinide-containing materials, as well as assist with data logging and reporting, instrument upkeep, glove changes, bag outs, and other tasks required to maintain analytical chemistry functionality in nuclear facilities.

Work will require specialized training and qualification to handle Special Nuclear Material (plutonium and uranium) in secured buildings. Work takes place in glove boxes and fume hoods and requires special PPE and respirators for certain activities.

This role supports the Laboratory's core national security mission areas of weapons science and threat reduction.

• Prepare reagents and perform general laboratory tasks, including extensive sample preparation
• Dissolve actinide materials
• Operate instruments for actinide analyses
• Read, interpret, and execute detailed operating procedures and process documentation
• Complete and maintain extensive radiological laboratory training requirements
• Work in a team environment
• Work with radioactive materials in glove boxes in a nuclear facility
• Maintain high standards of operational conduct and discipline
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, data sheets, and documentation in accordance with quality systems

Minimum Job Requirements

• Experience working in a chemistry laboratory setting with corrosive and hazardous chemicals.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of implementation of required safety, security, and quality assurance practices, including calibration concepts and protocols.
• Ability to work successfully in a team environment and exhibit collaborative behavior.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment, including a full-face respirator.
• Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which usually requires U.S. citizenship.
• Ability and willingness to perform work in a rigorously controlled work environment using principles of formal operations and work authorization.
• Ability to follow procedures and guidelines in accordance with stringent quality assurance and control requirements.
• Demonstrated experience with data collection, record keeping, and report generation.

Education and experience:

Associate's degree and three years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

DOE Order 426.2 requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working in a nuclear facility.
• Experience working in a highly regulated work environment.
• Experience using various personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators.
• Knowledge of DOE Conduct of Operations and safety/security requirements for nuclear/radiological facilities.
• Active Q clearance.
• DOE Human Reliability Program approval.
• Certification as a Fissionable Material Handler.
• Familiarity with the LANMAS database.

Ability to hear in a normal range (500 to 3000 Hz); stand, bend, climb stairs; use both hands, arms, legs, and feet; lift 20–30 pounds.

Work near sources of ionizing radiation; requires safety glasses or eye protection, face shield or facial protection, mask or respirator, gloves or hand protection, and safety shoes or protective footgear.

Onsite in Los Alamos, New Mexico.

This position may require extended hours including shift work. Employees may be eligible for shift differential pay when assigned by their manager.

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. The position commitment for this role is 1 year.

• PPO or high-deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award-winning 401(k) plan with 6% matching plus 3.5% annual contributions
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50‑mile radius)

The position requires a Q clearance. Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government. Candidates must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter; U.S. citizenship is required except in extremely rare…