Mechanical Test Engineer

Entry Level | Full-time
Engineering | Livermore, CA | 09/03/2026
Reference #: REF
8809N
Job Code: SES.
1 Science & Engineering MTS 1 / SES.
2 Science & Engineering MTS 2
Organization: Engineering
Position Type: Career Indefinite
Security Clearance: Anticipated DOE Q clearance (requires U.S. citizenship and a federal background investigation)
Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
Medical Exam: A job-related pre-placement medical examination may be required.

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

Defense Technologies Engineering Division (DTED) has multiple openings for Mechanical Test Engineers to support the Environmental & Mechanical Test Group. Under supervision, you will conduct experimental testing on a variety of projects related to environmental testing, modal analysis, health monitoring, aging studies, data acquisition, load testing, general instrumentation and measurement diagnostics.

Work supports multiple program areas, including Strategic Deterrence, Global Security, and the National Ignition Facility. This position will report to a DTED Environmental & Mechanical Test Group Leader.

Depending on your assignment, this position may offer a hybrid schedule, blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week.

This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

You will

• Design and conduct tests on mechanical and r diagnostic systems, analyze results, and author reports.
• Conduct experimental modal analyses and analyze results in concert with modeling and simulation.
• Operate test equipment (shaker systems, shock machines, thermal chambers, etc.) using fundamental knowledge of best test and measurement practices.
• Prepare supporting safety and engineering documentation and participate in formal engineering design reviews.
• Perform supporting engineering calculations for structural, thermal, and diagnostic systems.
• Participate in the detailed design process, component part fabrication and unit assembly.
• Provide solutions to problems of limited complexity that require the evaluation of readily identifiable factors using standard techniques and methodologies.
• Work as a member of a project team in a dynamic environment.
• Interface with peers both internal and external to the organization to plan and execute testing.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the SES.
2 level

• Independently define engineering requirements for structural, thermal, fluidic, and diagnostic systems within assigned project scope.
• Generate detailed plans, schedules, and budgets for project activities.
• Perform independent technical tasks and projects and support research efforts and select methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining results based on analysis of multiple, largely identifiable factors.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent…