Research and Development; R&D Engineer

What You Will Do

This position will be filled at R&D Engineer 3/R&D Engineer 4, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.

The Advanced Sources and Detectors (ASD) Project is responsible for building a new advanced linear induction accelerator in support of the Stockpile Stewardship mission of the laboratory. ASD is a four-site project, with LANL responsible for the design and assembly of major accelerator systems, including the accelerator cells and modules.

ASD is seeking an R&D Engineer to lead a High Voltage testing team responsible for verifying the functionality of cells and magnets under operating conditions. Primary responsibilities of this position include the following:

• Develop and maintain testing procedures for low and high voltage testing of cells and magnets.
• Develop and execute testing plans that allow the team to meet operational and schedule requirements.
• Carry out testing activities and successfully capture testing data.
• Coordinate with Subject Matter Experts from LANL and LLNL to interpret data and adjust testing procedures to incorporate lessons learned.
• Ensure conduct of operations to protect personnel and equipment during testing activities.
• Maintain testing equipment in good working order and implement a robust maintenance program.
• Oversee equipment upgrades as needed to maintain the project's testing schedule.
• Maintain careful documentation of testing activities for incorporation into the accelerator records.

Identify opportunities to enhance the system through value engineering during production and testing.

This position requires superlative attention to detail, an ability to understand highly complex accelerator technical concepts, and an ability to work cross-functionally to achieve testing and schedule objectives.

In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, at this level: R&D Engineer 4 is recognized as an advanced technical expert in area of specialization or with expertise crossing several technical areas.

Accelerator Engineering Experience

• Demonstrated proficiency in engineering design, development, testing, or production of accelerator components or systems. Proficiency in one or more of the following: pulsed power testing, electrical power systems, high voltage systems, vacuum systems, cooling systems, data acquisition, data processing, and control systems.

Technical Leadership

• Experience coordinating efforts involving scientists, engineers, and technologists. Experience assigning tasks to team members and reporting progress against a project production schedule. Proven ability to mentor junior staff and contractors.

Technical Execution

• Demonstrated ability to proactively generate and apply innovative approaches to solve complex problems. Demonstrated experience in preparing test plans, acceptance criteria, requirements verification, and similar documentation required to support testing of a complex technical system.

Communication and Teamwork

• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate verbally and through written documentation with coworkers, vendors, customers, and management. Proven record of working effectively as a team member. Recognized ability to lead projects involving diverse team members.

In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires the following:

Accelerator Engineering Expertise

• Applied knowledge of linear induction accelerators and associated technical areas, including pulsed power, electromagnetic interference, mechanical systems, electrical power systems, vacuum systems, cooling systems, interlocks, data acquisition, data processing, and control systems.

Leadership Experience

• Significant experience leading complex projects demonstrating the ability to address and/or overcome engineering or testing challenges.

R&D Engineer 3:
Position requires a Master of Engineering from an accredited institution and 6 years of related experience, or an equivalent…