Explosives R&D Technologist; Research Technologist , Part-Time

Research Technologist 1

Salary: $87,800 - $143,000.

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.

Group Q-5 is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented experimentalist to work alongside a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and technologists in the development and execution of LANL mission‑relevant projects involving the preparation, handling, and testing of high explosives and their formulations. The selected candidate will provide experimental support in a range of high explosive operations, including but not limited to: formulation and handling of explosives, class 3B/4 lasers, cryogens, chemicals, pressurized systems, non‑energized electrical equipment, and hand operated power tools.

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.

Other responsibilities include:

• Maintaining laboratory firing operations and experimental facilities, e.g., orderliness, cleanliness, inventory, supply procurement, coordination of craft work, shot clean‑up, and waste management.
• Regularly organizing and performing tasks required to perform a complex explosive experiment, including building shot and diagnostic stands, and set‑up of various types of diagnostic and recording equipment including oscilloscopes, cameras, pin/switch circuits, temperature control circuits, etc.
• Training and instruction of new group members and visitors when appropriate.
• Act as Firing Leader and/or Experimentalist in the preparation of explosive assemblies, including performing precision optical and/or mechanical alignment and verifying safe critical interlock safety systems used to protect personnel for explosive experiments.
• Leading development of hazard analyses, safety documents, and work procedures.

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

Minimum

Job Requirements:

• Demonstrated experience working to a set of defined requirements and regulations (e.g., high explosive safety).
• Demonstrated experience maintaining infrastructure and high-value equipment, e.g., inventory, supply procurement, orderliness, cleanliness, and organization.
• Demonstrated experience using chemicals in a safe manner.
• Demonstrated experience in the areas of carpentry, metal fabrication, and/or mechanical skills using basic hand and power tools.
• Demonstrated experience with algebraic and geometric operations or college level courses in mathematics and chemistry.
• Proficiency with basic computer programs such as Word and Excel.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills and experience with assisting in publication-quality work and presentations.
• Demonstrated ability to assume responsibility and work independently with a high degree of accuracy.
• Demonstrated experience working in a team environment with the ability to meet deadlines and deliverables.

Research Technologist 1 Education/

Experience:

Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 2 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

• Experience with handling or mixing of energetic materials and formulations, and/or certified as an HE handler.
• Experience with explosive firing operations and/or handling energetic materials (e.g., reactive chemicals, high explosives, detonators).
• Experience with data acquisition equipment (oscilloscopes/digitizers, delay generators, thermocouples, and pressure…