Research & Development Mechanical Engineer; R&D Engineer

What You Will Do

This position will be filled at either the R&D Engineer 2 or 3 level, depending on the skills and experience of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.

M-6 is seeking a qualified R&D Engineer to join our team. The Explosive Applications and Special Projects Group (M‑6) within the Dynamic Experiments (M) Division of Los Alamos National Laboratory conducts research to study the initiation and performance of high explosives (HE) through mechanical, thermal, and electromagnetic mechanisms. Our areas of expertise include non‑shock initiation of HE, HE‑driven pulsed‑power, special energetic materials, and special security projects in service to the Laboratory, nation, and other national security areas.

We also develop and perfect the use of state‑of‑the‑art diagnostic tools to collect and analyze data on various high‑rate events. Such tools include a variety of precision sensors that measure very short‑duration, high‑speed changes in temperature, pressure, and position, e.g., high‑speed photography, PDV, and radiography.

This complex work requires a multitude of mechanical design and assembly activities, such as:

• Taking conceptual designs and requirements for experiments and translating those into fieldable mechanical designs.
• Identifying appropriate materials, processes, and manufacturers to meet project specifications.
• Quoting, ordering, tracking and receiving components.
• Performing metrology to ensure as‑fabricated parts meet specifications.

The successful candidate will work with M-6 project leads to provide support for projects that require mechanical design, experimental engineering, and diagnostics. Rapid‑prototyping equipment, Solid Works, and general workshop equipment is available to assist the candidate in their task. A R&D Engineer 2 is expected to:

• Design, engineer, and assemble mechanical systems for dynamic experiments.
• Design and fabricate test fixtures for dynamic experiments.
• Develop assembly procedures and lead assembly efforts for large and complex experiments.
• Work with machine shops and vendors to fabricate experimental parts.
• Support the analysis of data collected from dynamic experiments.
• Perform inspection of received parts to ensure they meet requirements.

In addition to the duties outlined above, an R&D Engineer 3 will be expected to:

• Participate in collaborations with the U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Defense, and other federal agencies.
• Assist in the development of intellectual property and contribute to reports and presentations.
• Define strategic plans with both team members and customers to meet long‑term needs to maintain and advance experimental programs and capabilities.
• Work with customers to evaluate and define material and tolerancing needs.
• Mentor students, junior staff, and peers for technical and professional growth.

Technical
: knowledge of and experience contributing to the following aspects of assigned projects under regular direction and supervision.

Experience contributing to the design, planning, and execution of research and development projects, including test plans. Use of mechanical design and analysis software, preferably Solid Works.

Design drafting practices, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, and engineering specifications. Working with machine shops and other fabricators to produce parts from draft specifications.

Strong interpersonal, presentation, and written skills, as demonstrated by relationships built, briefings, and presentations.

Working to a defined scope, schedule, and budget, both independently and as part of a team.

Demonstrated independent contributions that benefit a broad spectrum of projects, including proven approaches, solutions, and leadership in the design, drafting, execution, and communication of a team’s engineering deliverables.

Demonstrated mentoring experience.

Position…