Staff Engineer - Mechanical Design, SSRL

Position Overview

The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) directorate of SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is a national 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.

The SSRL Beam Line Systems (BLS) division designs, constructs, and commissions new synchrotron radiation beam lines and retrofits existing beam lines for new capabilities or improved performance.

The SSRL Beam Line Development (BLD) group works with scientists and other engineers in the design of synchrotron radiation instrumentation and optics. Components of x‑ray beam lines range in complexity from simple mechanical supports to intricate optical assemblies providing precise manipulation of optical elements subject to high thermal loads in ultra‑high vacuum.

• Lead the effort to design advanced mechanical systems and state‑of‑the‑art experimental facilities to serve the SSRL beamline user community.
• Lead component design and development activities, including concept generation, engineering analysis, 3D CAD modeling, material selection, application of engineering standards, GD&T/tolerancing, detailed drawings, vendor coordination, procurement support, and preparation of technical documentation in accordance with SSRL standards.
• Manage the engineering process from conception through design, construction, and field installation. This includes interfacing with both physicists and scientists to develop project requirements and mechanical technicians to ensure proper component assembly and installation.
• Act as project manager for advanced component or facility construction by leading teams of senior mechanical engineers, technicians, and other specialized technical professionals.
• Participate in the assembly of a world‑class group of engineers to serve the SSRL user community.

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, coupled with 8+ years of hands‑on experience in CAD‑based mechanical design.
• Led full‑life‑cycle projects from design and fabrication through installation and commissioning.
• Subject matter expert in precision engineering, kinematic principles, mechanical fabrication, and ANSI documentation.
• Combines analytical problem‑solving with innovative design conceptualization.
• Proficient in deploying FEA software to solve complex thermal, thermal stress, and structural problems, with a focus on identifying optimal design solutions.
• Skilled at conveying technical information to physicists, engineers, and technicians, both verbally and in writing.

• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in Mechanical Engineering and hands‑on experience in CAD‑based mechanical design.
• Designed complex, high‑precision mechanisms and maintained strict vacuum compatibility standards.
• Integrated optical components (monochromators, collimators, mirrors) into specialized systems.
• Engineered UHV‑compatible components applying advanced vacuum design principles.
• Verified assembly precision using Faro arms, CMMs, and various hand‑held metrology tools.

• 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…