Beamline Engineer - SSRL Materials Science Division

Overview

Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL), a SLAC Directorate at Stanford University, is a national scientific user facility providing synchrotron radiation for research in biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, material science, medicine, and physics. SSRL operates and maintains the 3 GeV electron storage ring SPEAR3, the associated injector facility, and synchrotron radiation beam lines on SPEAR
3.

SSRL is seeking an outstanding Beam Line Engineer to join a dynamic scientific research environment in the hard x‑ray group of the Materials Science Division. The primary responsibility of this position is to provide engineering support to the hard x‑ray group, including optimization, maintenance and upgrade of existing hard x‑ray beam lines, assisting scientists with instrument development on the end stations, and overseeing the safe operation of the hard x‑ray beam line and end stations.

• Align X-ray optics and configure data acquisition and experimental systems.
• Prepare, commission, and optimize beam lines and experimental stations for SSRL users.
• Establish and maintain high quality experimental conditions on the x‑ray beam line.
• Design, develop, and maintain beam line hardware, and provide technical support to the SSRL users.
• Develop in-situ/operando experimental hardware and capabilities.
• Identify and carry out projects that expand experimental capabilities and/or improve system reliability.
• Provide input to the beam time scheduling process.
• May serve as a beam line program manager (this role requires periodic on‑call duties).
• Other duties may also be assigned.

• Bachelor's degree (in chemistry, physics, engineering or related field) and at least 2 years of experience in a scientific, engineering or technical field.
• Demonstrated ability to conceptualize designs, with strong analytical and problem‑solving skills paired with creative and innovative thinking.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and effective organizational abilities.
• Ability to interact effectively with a diverse group of scientists, technical staff and user groups in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to write clear technical documentation and user manuals.
• Ability to evaluate and troubleshoot complex electro‑mechanical and logic control systems.

• Strong hands‑on skill in assembling complex mechanical systems and handling delicate instruments.

• Effective Decisions:
  Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
• Self‑Development:
  Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
• Dependability:
  Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
• Initiative:
  Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
• Adaptability:
  Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
• Communication:
  Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
• Relationships:
  Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.

• Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require onsite work full‑time.

• Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety:
  Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual,…