Advanced Manufacturing Research Technologist

What You Will Do

E-2 at Los Alamos National Laboratory supports the national security mission by reducing system design timelines through agile manufacturing and rapid prototyping. The group focuses on additive manufacturing and novel material systems. The successful candidate will develop advanced metrology capabilities for weapons missions, including CMMs, profilometers, non‑contact measuring systems, software implementation, and AI-driven lean inspection. They will support capability development plans, equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, data acquisition, and apply digital transformation principles to support Enterprise Modernization objectives.

Salary: $96,600 - $158,000

As a Research Technologist 2, you will work under the direction of the Group's Principal Engineer and Strategic Initiatives Lead, collaborating with engineers and technical staff across the organization. This role requires high personal ownership and organization, clear communication of deliverables, and proactive resource planning. You will tackle open-ended problems, take on challenging tasks, and operate with initiative while aligning with group priorities.

Salary: $106,400 - $176,000

In addition to the responsibilities of Research Technologist 2, you will assume a leadership role, developing innovative solutions to complex problems, leading small teams, acting as a subject‑matter expert, and contributing significantly to weapons development. Your work will involve product development, documentation, and qualification to improve manufacturing lifecycle efficiency.

• Depth of knowledge in machining, test plan set‑up, test execution, assembly, additive manufacturing, and inspection.
• Ability to plan and manage day‑to‑day activities, make informed decisions, and follow through on technical objectives.
• Experience developing specifications for product, system, or equipment design and/or production processes in support of research.
• Proven ability to contribute to new techniques and R&D goals.
• Experience preparing research documentation and technical reports.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and independent work.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and secure work environment.

• Expert knowledge and refined skills in an advanced manufacturing setting.
• Development of new techniques, concepts, experimental design, and innovative solutions to complex problems across related subject areas.
• Experience leading a large project or multiple smaller projects contributing to an overall program.
• Mentoring of junior staff.
• Track record of excellence and reliability in leadership positions.

Machining, equipment maintenance, additive manufacturing, testing execution and planning, assembly, and inspection.

Lower level:
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution and 5 years related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Higher level:
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution and 8 years related experience, or an equivalent combination, with post‑graduate coursework desirable.

• Degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field.
• Experience in high‑consequence safety environments (e.g., high temperature foundries, high‑powered welding, chemical processing).
• Knowledge of DOE/NNSA complex codes and standards.
• Active security clearance.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex R&D projects.

Reading vision; ability to speak; ability to hear in a normal range (500 to 3000 Hz); sitting, standing, walking, crouching; reaching; use of both arms; applying torque with hands/arms; gripping; lifting 30 + pounds.

Primarily in a laboratory or glovebox near ionizing radiation sources. PPE includes eye protection, gloves, protective coveralls and shoe covers, and occasional respirator.

Onsite, Los Alamos, NM. All work locations at management discretion.

Regular appointment employees must serve 1 year in the current position to be eligible to apply for other posted jobs.

Los A…