J-NV Electrical R&D Engineer (R&D Engineer 2)

Los Alamos National Laboratory5 months ago
Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
On-site
Full-time
Junior Level (1-3 years)

Job Description

Position Overview

The Integrated Weapons Experiments (J) Division is seeking a highly motivated R&D Electrical Engineer to support stockpile stewardship for the Hydrodynamic and Subcritical Experiment Execution Support (HSEES) Program in the J-Division Nevada Operations group. The role involves designing, fabricating, and implementing computer-based process control, diagnostics, timing, and firing instrumentation systems for high explosive and sub-critical experiments. The successful candidate will collaborate with a diverse team of scientists, engineers, technologists, and technicians, and must be able to obtain and maintain a Q-clearance. Occasional travel between the Nevada National Security Site and Los Alamos National Laboratory is required.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, fabricate, implement, document, and maintain process control, diagnostics, timing, and firing instrumentation systems for experimental setups.
  • Determine experiment utility, diagnostics testbed requirements, and provide subsystem control for high voltage systems, vacuum operations, and safety and access control systems.
  • Provide support for high explosive experiments, including radiographic machine operations and HE testing at field firing sites.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition projects from concept through testing and deployment in an experimental environment.
  • Travel periodically for training and project-specific requirements at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Required Qualifications

  • Strong background in electrical engineering fundamentals with advanced knowledge of analog and digital electronics.
  • Experience selecting and integrating diagnostics instrumentation to secure noise-free dynamic data.
  • Familiarity with common electronic test equipment, SCADA, HMI, and PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block Diagrams, etc.).
  • Sound understanding of safety standards and the use of interlocks and design features to mitigate risks.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with experience in technical direction and mentoring.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering with at least 4 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

  • A graduate degree is preferred, with expertise in Electrical, Electronic, or Instrumentation Engineering.
  • Experience designing, planning, and executing high explosive or other complex experiments.
  • Familiarity with documented safety analyses and technical surveillance requirements.
  • Proven capability in estimating project costs and managing schedules under stringent deadlines.
  • Knowledge of LabVIEW, C/C++ programming, and related technologies.
  • Active Q Clearance is highly desirable.

Benefits & Perks

  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with a large nationwide network
  • Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) plan with 6% matching plus an additional 3.5% annually
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and generous time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Extensive relocation packages (for moves outside a 50-mile radius)

Required Skills

Data Acquisition Systems
Instrumentation Design
Digital Electronics
Safety Standards
C/C++
Project Management
System Integration
LabVIEW
Analog Electronics
Technical Documentation
SCADA and HMI
PLC Programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, etc.)