Material Science and Engineering Research Technician; Research Tec

Position: Material Science and Engineering Research Technician (Research Tec 2/3)
** What You Will Do*
* ** The Quasi-static and Dynamic Behavior of Materials team within the Materials Physics and Applications-Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies (MPA-CINT) group at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking candidates for a research technician position.  Our focus is on the response of materials to deformation at high strain rates - i.e. under high speed impact or implosion.  The selected research technician will provide technical support and work closely with a diverse group of scientists, engineers, technologists, and technicians on projects and programs for both internal and external customers.

Principal job duties will include
1) preparing metals and alloys for optical and electron microscopy.
2) performing mechanical testing using servo-hydraulic and screw drive test systems over a broad range of strain rates and environmental conditions and temperatures ranging from liquid nitrogen to 2000°C.  In relation to this work, the candidate will need to perform routine maintenance on various test equipment such as ultra-high vacuum systems.  Interpersonal communication and teamwork are important elements of this work environment, as is a commitment to LANL's safety and security culture.

Training will be required for LANL radiological work and conduct of operations regardless of prior experience.*
* ** This position will be filled at either the Research Tec 2 or 3 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.*
* ** Research Technician 2 ($54,900 - $84,300)*
* ** The successful candidates for Research Tec 2 will provide mid-level technician support in one or more of the following areas:*
* + Mechanical properties measurement

+ Metallography

+ Materials characterization

+ Dynamic testing

+ The research technician will provide support to all aspects of the quasi-static and dynamic behavior of materials team with the main focus on mechanical testing and characterization.

+ Under supervision perform and aid in routine maintenance of non-energized electrical, mechanical and pressurized systems.

+ Responsible for corrective and preventative maintenance related to equipment assembly/disassembly.

+ Ability to work under guidance from senior staff with engineering drawings and/or electrical diagrams.

+ Under guidance from team researchers prepare drawings and interface with various machine shops around the complex to prepare materials for machining into mechanical test specimen.

+ Work on metallography preparation for metals and alloys.

** Research Technician 3 ($66,100 - $103,600)*
* ** In addition to the responsibilities and activities listed above, the Research Technician 3 will be expected to perform at a skilled level with direct experience in one of those areas. The Tec 3 will work with supervision (with the goal of becoming independent) to meet project deliverables.*
* + Ability to work with engineering drawings and/or electrical diagrams.

+ Perform and aid in routine maintenance of non-energized electrical, mechanical and pressurized systems.

+ Troubleshooting maintenance systems.

+ Under guidance from team researchers and independently prepare drawings and interface with various machine shops around the complex to prepare materials for machining into mechanical test specimen.

+ Prepare test data for lead researcher review.

** What You Need*
* ** Minimum

Job Requirements:

*
* ** Research Technician 2:*
* + Basic knowledge of and experience with hand and power tools

+ Proficient computer skills with common applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook

+ Basic knowledge of and experience in computer systems and applications

+ Ability to quickly learn new skills/techniques and adapt to changing environments

+ Ability to work well in a team environment toward the accomplishment of common goals

+ Ability to interact effectively with peers and management as required to complete work

+ Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, procedures, plans and Laboratory requirements

+ Ability to follow safeguards and security procedures in accordance with the Laboratory

+ Ability to perform routine tasks independently in a related technical specialty and exercise independent judgment

+ Ability to obtain a Q clearance

+ Demonstrated experience executing job responsibilities with minimal supervision

** Research Technician 3:*
* In addition to the requirements listed above, the Research Technician 3 will also require the following:

+ Knowledge or experience related to metallography, electron microscopy, materials characterization, materials processing and properties measurements, mechanical and dynamic testing, and/or maintenance of scientific equipment.

+ Ability to work independently and initiate work.

+ Ability to perform non-routine tasks, exercising independent judgment.

** Research Technician 2 Education/Experience** :
Position requires a High School diploma and a minimum of 3 years of related…