Research Technician

Position: Research Technician 2 or 3
** What You Will Do*
* ** This position is open for external candidates only to apply.*
* ** We are seeking a highly motivated Research Technician to join the Characterization and Special Projects Team of Sigma Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL).  Sigma Division focuses on materials science and engineering, emphasizing metallurgical processes and research in support of the experimental testing program at Los Alamos. The Division is a service oriented capability that supports a broad customer base, both internal and external to LANL, with high quality one of a kind prototype components.

The work ranges from unclassified to TS/SCI level security and covers all materials from hydrogen to uranium on the periodic chart.  Performance of job responsibilities will involve exposure to hazards that include radiation generating devices, radioactive materials, acids/bases, organic solvents and other hazardous materials.  This position requires excellent work ethic and team building skills, high level of initiative, and commitment to safety, quality, and documentation.*
* ** This position will be filled at either the Research Technician 2 or 3 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 Technician 2 ($54,900 - $84,300)*
* ** SIGMA has a great opportunity for an outstanding candidate to join it as a Research Technician 2 or 3 which will provide entry level technician support in the field of metallography/materials science for the Division.  The selected candidate will be expected to work under supervision within established procedures, processes, requirements or specifications to perform work on a variety of tasks and projects.*
* ** Specific duties of the Research Technician 2 position are:*
* + Provide standard sample preparation of metallographic samples for the purpose of examining specimens by optical microscopy methods.

+ Conduct standard optical microscopy of metals and alloys for metallurgical characterization purposes.

+ Perform macroscopic examination, imaging and hardness measurements on metallographic samples.

+ Perform routine cleaning, maintenance, and adjustment of metallographic preparation equipment.

+ Perform general lab housekeeping tasks.

** Research Technician 3 ($66,100 - $103,600)*
* ** In addition to the responsibilities and activities listed above, the Research Technician 3 will be expected to:*
* + Have experience in sample preparation of metallographic samples.

+ Have experience using an optical microscope and/or scanning electron microscope (SEM) for imaging samples.

+ Assist laboratory users in standard sample preparation methods, i.e. polishing or etching, microscopic or macroscopic examination using optical microscopy, and hardness measurements.

+ Manage chemical waste profiles for disposal according to environmental regulations.

+ Interact with facility personnel for new equipment installation and/or facility maintenance.

+ Assist with the development of safety documents for activities performed in the metallography lab, waste disposal, safety, and user training.

+ Perform image analysis on optical and electron images for grain size, texture, etc. using ImageJ, MIPAR, CLEMEX, or other similar programs.

+ Assist in the development of charts, graphs, and/or drawings for inclusion in reports for reference or instruction purposes.

** What You Need*
* *
* Minimum Qualifications:

*
* + Basic knowledge of computer systems and applications including PC software and Microsoft Office suite.

+ Ability to interact effectively with colleagues and external collaborators.

+ Demonstrate superior verbal communication and teamwork.

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

+ Ability to pass and maintain required training such as Rad Worker II and Nuclear Material Handler.

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

+ Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which generally requires U.S. Citizenship.

** Desired

Qualifications:

*
* + Previous

Experience with hardness testing and/or image analysis software.

+ Experience in handling uranium and/or beryllium alloys.

+ Previous experience with scanning electron microscopy.

*
* Essential Job Functions:

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

+ Ability to pass and maintain required training.

+ Ability to follow safeguards and security procedure in accordance with Laboratory policy.

+ Color discrimination, peripheral vision, depth perception, binocular vision, reading vision.

+ Use of both hands, use of both arms, pushing and pulling with hands and arms, and lifting 10-20 pounds.

+ Ability to hear in a normal range (500-3000 Hz).

** Education Requirements for level 2**  **:  High school diploma and a minimum of three years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and…