Space Instrument Development and Fabrication Technician; Development and Fabrication Tec

This position will be filled at either the Development and Fabrication Technician 2 or 3 level, depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.

The ISR-5 Space Instrument Realization Group seeks an electronics Technician to join our Integration and Test (I&T) team. The ideal candidate will be a highly collaborative and creative problem-solver, able to apply knowledge of electronics operation, measurement, and design to the testing and calibration of a wide range of complex modules and instruments. ISR-5 provides engineering and technical expertise to develop and deploy high-quality space-based measurement systems for national security and space science applications.

The Intelligence and Space Research (ISR) Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory has been designing, building, and operating highly innovative ground, air and space-based measurement and detection systems for more than 60 years. Our work includes space-based measurement systems for verification of international nuclear treaties, basic scientific missions, nuclear nonproliferation, space situational awareness, and remote sensing. In addition, we lead experiments on NASA missions, including the Curiosity and Perseverance Mars Rovers, Van Allen Probes, IMAP, and IBEX.

This position will support the X-ray and Particle Sensor (XAPS) project team in the Space-based Nuclear Detonation Detection (SNDD) program by assembling, testing, and verifying the performance of electronic assemblies used in space-flight instruments critical to national security. The XAPS project is a fast-moving, team-oriented environment that balances production of current-generation treaty verification hardware with research and development of future designs.

The person chosen for this position will be a critical member of a high-functioning team of technicians, engineers, and scientists. Adherence to safety, security, and best practices for electronics handling, testing, and operating is imperative for success in this position. The ideal candidate will differentiate themselves through enthusiasm, attention to detail, and a strong collaborative mindset.

On any given day, you may be called to:

• Interpret electrical schematics to perform calibration and testing of complex circuits at the component level
• Utilize meters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, function generators, and other custom test equipment for electronics integration & testing
• Perform basic assembly, test, and modifications of electrical and mechanical assemblies and systems
• Generate test documentation and perform in-process inspections to ensure performance and quality requirements are met
• Work together with team members to identify problems and implement solutions
• Use standard CAD systems to display and generate assembly drawings and schematics
• Solder or assemble electronic components, connectors, and wiring.
• Handle and safely use sealed radioactive sources or radiation generating equipment in controlled environments
• Demonstrate openness to being mentored, engage in continuous learning for technical skills and professional development
• Perform troubleshooting on electronics systems and test equipment using detailed drawings, manuals, and written instructions
• Embrace safety and security policies, programs, procedures, and practices, making safety and security an integral part of every task
• Promote a mutually respectful work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment

Design, assemble, test, and/or modify distinctive electrical components, assemblies and systems that include specialized functions, often for unique applications. Apply technical job knowledge and propose solutions to design challenges. Includes specification of components for test assemblies, interpretation of component and assembly design drawings, and shop fabrication/assembly liaison as applicable. Testing aspects of the job include; develop and or modify test procedures, generate/acquire test data, interpret and document test results, and troubleshooting with supervision.

This job also requires generating design, assembly and test documentation as appropriate and in-process inspection to ensure product quality. Electrical responsibilities include these functions applied to analog, digital, and RF circuitry.