R&D Engineer

What You Will Do

Design, develop, and qualify critical mechanical components for nuclear weapons systems and experimental platforms in the PT‑2 Machining Group. Responsibilities include mechanical design, machining support, hazard analysis, process optimization, and cross‑functional collaboration.

• Design mechanical components, tooling, and fixtures for CNC machining, EDM, turning, drilling, and other advanced manufacturing processes.
• Support the fabrication and handling of plutonium and other actinides in glovebox and hazardous material environments.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with machinists, technologists, project managers, and scientists.
• Lead and participate in hazard analyses, readiness reviews, and quality assurance activities.
• Troubleshoot and maintain complex machinery and integrate new equipment into the manufacturing floor.
• Optimize manufacturing processes to improve yield, reduce cycle time, and enhance throughput.

R&D Engineer 2

• Engage in hands‑on mechanical design and fabrication support.
• Contribute to the development and integration of manufacturing processes.
• Solve complex problems with innovative engineering solutions.

R&D Engineer 3

• Lead multidisciplinary engineering efforts and guide high‑rigor mechanical system development.
• Serve as subject‑matter expert in design, analysis, and process integration.
• Mentor junior engineers and influence project strategy.
• Represent LANL in internal and external technical collaborations.

Minimum Job Requirements

• Demonstrated knowledge of, and experience in, an engineering discipline.
• Comprehensive knowledge of designing, planning, and executing R&D projects.
• Experience with CNC machine tools, inspection equipment, or a high‑precision environment.
• Familiarity with hazardous materials (radioactive, pyrophoric, toxic).
• Strong troubleshooting skills.
• Awareness of 3D CAD/CAM software (e.g., Creo, Solid Works) and ASME Y14.5 GD&T.
• Knowledge of machining operations.
• Experience with basic inspection and metrology tools (calipers, micrometers).
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills.
• U.S. citizenship and eligibility for Q clearance.

Additional Requirements for Higher Level

• Thorough knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Leadership in engineering design and manufacturing integration.
• Track record of leading technical projects with defined scope, schedule, and deliverables.
• Experience in mentoring and technical leadership.
• Innovation in design, manufacturing methods, or systems engineering.
• Strong technical writing and presentation skills.

Education/Experience

• R&D Engineer 2:
  Bachelor’s degree in engineering and 4 years of relevant experience (or equivalent).
• R&D Engineer 3:
  Master’s degree in engineering and 6 years of relevant experience (Ph.D. preferred).

• Active Q clearance and participation in the DOE Human Reliability Program.
• Experience in nuclear or radiological environments and glovebox operations.
• Experience leading process hazard analyses and audit activities.
• Familiarity with NQA‑1 or equivalent quality assurance frameworks.
• Experience in mechanical design, drafting, and machine design.
• Simulation tools (ANSYS, COMSOL) for thermal or mechanical analysis.
• GD&T certification.
• Lean Six Sigma.
• Manufacturing metrics and process optimization.
• Material science characterization.

24/7 coverage required; rotating shift schedule including nights and weekends.

Onsite at Los Alamos, NM. Work locations are at management discretion.

• PPO or high‑deductible medical insurance
• Dental and vision insurance
• Basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award‑winning 401(k) (6% matching + 3.5% annually)
• Tuition assistance
• Flexible schedules and PTO
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Relocation packages (outside 50‑mile radius)

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal‑opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, protected veteran status, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is committed to accessibility and reasonable accommodations upon request.

Tyler Daniel – sdaniel

Alex Wroblewski – alexwrob