Analytical Chemistry Laboratory Technician​/Research Tec

What You Will Do

The C-AAC (Actinide Analytical Chemistry) Group within the Chemistry Division has multiple open positions for Research Technician 4 or 5. These positions support the Laboratory's core national security mission areas of weapons science and threat reduction.

The successful candidate will work on one of several teams that perform nuclear material handling, disposition, movement, and chemical analysis. Routine work involves preparation and chemical analysis of plutonium samples using numerous analytical techniques and supporting the analysis of plutonium metal and other actinide‑containing materials. Responsibilities include data logging, reporting, instrument upkeep, glove changes, bag‑outs, and other tasks required to maintain analytical chemistry functionality in nuclear facilities.

• Prepare reagents and perform extensive sample preparation.
• Dissolve actinide materials.
• Operate instruments for actinide analyses.
• Follow approved written procedures and guidelines.
• Complete and maintain extensive radiological laboratory training requirements.
• Work in a team environment.
• Work with radioactive materials in glove boxes in a nuclear facility.

• Independently operate, maintain, and troubleshoot/repair instrumentation.
• Understand and implement QA/QC methods and protocols.
• Review data collection record‑keeping and report generation for compliance with protocols.
• Maintain, improve, or streamline work execution in collaboration with team members.
• Identify and recommend solutions to problems affecting project requirements.

• Experience working in a chemistry laboratory setting with corrosive and hazardous chemicals.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of required safety, security, and quality assurance practices, including calibration concepts.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to wear personal protective equipment, including a full‑face respirator.
• Ability to obtain a Q clearance (requires US citizenship).
• Ability and willingness to work in a rigorously controlled environment with formal operations and work authorization.
• Ability to follow procedures and guidelines in accordance with stringent QA/QC requirements.
• Demonstrated experience with data collection, record‑keeping, and report generation.

• Advanced knowledge of analytical techniques.
• Experience working in a laboratory environment with nuclear material.

Research Technician 4:
Associate’s degree in a relevant field and five years of related experience, or an equivalent combination.

Research Technician 5:
Associate’s degree in a relevant field and seven years of related experience, or an equivalent combination. A bachelor’s degree is preferred.

• Experience working in a nuclear facility.
• Experience in a highly regulated work environment.
• Experience using various PPE, including respirators.
• Knowledge of DOE Conduct of Operations and safety/security requirements for nuclear/radiological facilities.
• Active Q clearance.
• DOE Human Reliability Program approval.
• Certified as a Fissionable Material Handler.
• Familiarity with the LANMAS database.

Ability to hear in a normal range (500–3,000 Hz); standing, bending, climbing stairs; use of both hands, arms, legs, feet; lift 20–30 pounds.

Extended hours may be required, including shift work. Shift assignments are at the discretion of the manager.

Work near sources of ionizing radiation. Required protective equipment includes safety glasses or eye protection, face shield or facial protection, mask or respirator, gloves, and protective footgear.

Los Alamos, NM.

• PPO or high‑preference deductible medical insurance.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• 401(k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annual contribution.
• Tuition assistance and learning opportunities.
• Flexible schedules and paid time off.
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs.
• Relocation assistance for moves outside a 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, veteran status, genetic information, or citizenship, within the limits imposed by applicable law.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. To request an accommodation, contact applyhelp.