Explosives Research Tec; Research Tec

This position is open for external candidates only to apply.

We are looking for a Research Technician to support Pilot Scale High Explosive (HE) Synthesis and Formulation Manufacturing campaigns in the High Explosives Science and Technology Group (Q-5) at Los Alamos National Laboratory. High Explosive Science & Technology (Q-5) Group, serves the Laboratory and nation by providing the knowledge base in high explosives (HE) testing for the Nuclear Weapons Program and other national security areas.

The group specializes in a broad array of energetic materials science including development (synthesis and formulation) and testing of novel explosives, pilot plant production of explosive materials, advanced manufacturing of explosives, analytical chemistry of explosives and explosive ingredients, thermal and mechanical characterization of neat explosives and their formulations, detonation performance testing, and special security projects.

This position will be filled at either the Research Technician 4/ Research Technician 5 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.

Q-5 is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented technician to work alongside a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and technologists in the development and execution of LANL mission-relevant projects involving the manufacturing and processing of high explosive powders and their formulations. The selected candidate will provide operational support in a range of high explosive manufacturing operations including but not limited to:
Pilot Plant synthesis, large scale mixing operations, and formulations. A range of maintenance and preparatory support will also be required, including maintaining equipment, ensuring all waste is compliant, and procuring any and all necessary chemical precursors and consumables. Prior experience with mass transfer pumps, valves, process control systems, and high pressure and vacuum systems is desireable. The ability to lift and move 50-lbs, become respirator and forklift certified is required.

The ideal candidate is careful and methodical, and will prioritize the production of high quality data and material, while abiding by all required safety practices.

In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, we will consider candidates with prior chemical manufacturing experience for a Research Technician 5 position. This candidate will be required to assist with production schedule planning and work closely with scientists and engineers to develop manufacturing process improvements. This involves troubleshooting equipment, refining the chemical process, and improving process safety and efficiency.

This posting is under the Associate Laboratory Directorate for Weapons Engineering (ALDW).

Experience or familiarity working in a chemical research setting or knowledge of chemical processes (i.e. synthesis, crystallization, solubility, and heat transfer). Proficiency with hand tools, mechanical equipment systems, lifting and hoisting equipment, and basic laboratory equipment and instrumentation. Experience in equipment troubleshooting and maintenance.

Demonstrated ability to keep accurate, careful records of experiments, data collection, and analyses. Ability to handle and move large amounts of solvent, waste, and chemical precursors to perform tasks demonstrating a high level of attention to detail under strict safety protocols.

Familiarity with Microsoft Excel and Word with additional knowledge in computers and software applications that include file management, word-processing, and data manipulation.

Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated ability to interact with all levels of personnel and customers; strong teaming skills and self-motivation. Demonstrated ability to be proactive and work under minimal supervision. Shown ability to multi-task and be self motivated in a complex work environment.

Specialized training or experience in chemical manufacturing processes…