Research Technologist

Position: Research Technologist 1/2
** What You Will Do*
* The Nuclear Materials Science Group (MST-16) seeks outstanding Research Technologist candidates with a strong background in experimental platform design, fabrication, and execution. The selected candidate will play key roles in supporting, operating, and installing analytical equipment in Group's Full Scale Test Facility (FSTF) within PF-4. The chosen candidate is expected to work closely with staff to provide advanced technical support in FSTF planning and operations as well as in gas sampling and leak testing capabilities while supporting laboratory operations and meeting all safety, and security compliance needs.

MST-16 supports a variety of nuclear weapons programs, including Plutonium Sustainment, Pit Surveillance, and Science Programs, as well as fuel cycle research & development, nuclear forensics, and Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) projects. The group is an international leader in fundamental plutonium science while also focusing on solving engineering problems that support national security. Using multidisciplinary expertise in actinide materials science, the group engages in several areas important to the weapons program, including phase stability, aging, electronic structure, corrosion, and surface science.

** This position will be filled at either the Research Technologist 1 or Research Technologist 2 level, depending on the skills and experience of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.*
* ** Research Technologist 1 ($87,800 - $143,000)*
* Responsibilities for the selected candidate will include:

+ Support operation and maintenance of FSTF experimental systems, including instrumentation, data acquisition, and gas/vacuum systems.

+ Assist with installation, testing, and troubleshooting of experimental hardware and control systems.

+ Support laboratory operations such as gas handling, vacuum equipment, glovebox work, and general facility activities.

+ Follow approved procedures and contribute to technical documentation.

+ Work safely in a regulated nuclear facility environment and maintain compliance with safety and security requirements.

** Research Technologist 2 ($96,600 - $158,000)*
* In addition to the responsibilities and activities listed above, the Research Technologist 2 will:

+ Lead operation and sustainment of FSTF experimental processes and systems.

+ Troubleshoot and resolve system-level issues involving electrical, mechanical, and control subsystems.

+ Support modernization and incremental improvement of control and data acquisition systems.

+ Mentor entry level technicians and help coordinate day-to-day technical activities.

+ Serve as a technical interface with engineers, scientists, and facility organizations.

** What You Need*
* ** Minimum

Job Requirements:

*
* ** Research Technologist 1*
* + Hands-on experience supporting experimental, laboratory, or industrial systems.

+ Working knowledge of instrumentation and data acquisition systems (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow, or similar sensors).

+ Basic understanding of electrical systems, signal wiring, and low-voltage troubleshooting.

+ Familiarity with computer-controlled test systems.

+ Ability to follow technical procedures and document work.

+ Strong teamwork and communication skills.

+ Ability to obtain and maintain DOE Q clearance and HRP certification.

** Research Technologist 2*
* In addition to the above job requirements outlined for a Research Technologist 1, the Research Technologist 2 requirements are as follows:

+ Demonstrated expertise in operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining complex experimental systems that integrate:

+ Instrumentation and sensors

+ Data acquisition and control systems

+ Mechanical, vacuum, pressure, and gas-handling subsystems

+ Windows-based software-controlled interfaces

+ Experience troubleshooting across electrical, software, and mechanical domains.

+

Experience with control system concepts such as I/O, interlocks, and system sequencing.

+ Experience leading technical work or mentoring entry level staff.

** Education/Experience at lower level:
** Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 2 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.  Candidates that meet the degree requirement, but who do not meet the two-year experience requirement, are encouraged to apply and may be considered for hire through an allowable variance.

** Education/Experience at higher level:
** Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 5 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

** Desired

Qualifications:

*
* +

Experience with LabVIEW-based control and data acquisition systems.

+

Experience with pressure systems, leak checking, or vacuum systems.

+ Ability to read electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.

+ Experience using…