W93 Polymer Product Realization Team Lead; Scientist

Job Overview

Lead a Product Realization Team (PRT) responsible for developing and realizing polymer components of the W93/Mk7 warhead system. The role may be filled at either the Scientist 2 or Scientist 3 level, with additional responsibilities awarded to higher‑level hires.

• Plan, execute, and report status on polymer component product realization.
• Coordinate with PRTs, the W93 Systems Engineering Director, and LANL team members.
• Collaborate with production agencies across the Nuclear Security Enterprise, particularly Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC).
• Manage requirements and interfaces, execute testing, report status, and deliver a producible, Mark Quality design and product.
• For Scientist 3: perform cross‑cutting work across multiple polymer PRTs, coordinate with QTE (Qualification, Test, and Evaluation), evaluate and revise requirements, provide technical leadership, and mentor junior staff.

• Scientist 2: $106,400 – $176,000
• Scientist 3: $128,000 – $215,900

• Significant knowledge and experience in one or more technical R&D disciplines.
• Demonstrated understanding of scientific integrity principles.
• Experience developing and implementing technical R&D projects, including hypothesis formulation, alternative solutions investigation, and recommendation of solutions to technical problems.
• Ability to formulate and present results to technical audiences.
• Knowledge of appropriate safe practices for technical work.
• Experience solving complex, multi‑variable problems using new techniques and unconventional methods.
• For Scientist 3:
  Leadership and mentorship in a diverse R&D team; cross‑organizational team leadership; engineering design knowledge; networking and communication with external/internal interfaces; program management of highly complex projects; adherence to scientific integrity; and expertise in technical knowledge, presentation, and safe practices.

• Scientist 2:
  Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field and 4 years of related experience (post‑doctoral or equivalent).
• Scientist 3:
  Master’s degree in a STEM field and 6 years of relevant experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience).

• Experience with nuclear weapon system design, engineering, qualification, certification, assembly/production, or surveillance.
• STEM degree in chemical, polymer, or material‑based field (e.g., chemistry).
• Knowledge of material interactions, polymer aging, compatibility, GD&T, and requirement engineering.
• Familiarity with DPBPS and product realization from conceptual design to qualified production.
• Active Q Clearance, equivalent DoD clearance, or eligibility to obtain one.

Los Alamos, NM (onsite). Domestic travel to DOE sites is expected at an approximate 20% rate.

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• 401(k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annually
• Tuition assistance and learning opportunities
• Flexible schedules and PTO
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Relocation packages (outside 50 mile radius)

Position requires Q clearance, attainable only by U.S. citizens, with additional authorization possible for dual citizens. Clearance eligibility: at least 18 years old; U.S. citizenship required, except in limited circumstances.

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. Employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories. The Laboratory is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.