Design Physicist- Active Security Clearance Required

We are seeking exceptional Physical Scientists and Engineers with backgrounds in fields such as plasma physics radiation transport atomic physics nuclear physics physical chemistry condensed matter physics computational physics or hydrodynamics. Our nationalsecurity mission encompasses aspects of computational theoretical and experimental physics associated with the complex processes of nuclear explosives.  Under limited direction you will be responsible for advancing our understanding and developing methodologies for important nationalsecurity challenges.  These positions are in the Design Physics Division within the Strategic Deterrence Directorate. 

These positions may offer a hybrid schedule which includes the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week after a probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule including the exact number of days required in the office and virtual work options may vary based on the needs of the team and the organization.

These positions 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

• Assess the complex physics interactions that take place in nuclear explosion.
• Design and provide analysis of experiments exploring the physics of nuclear explosives.
• Simulate weapons phenomena and perform weapons assessment and certification tasks using physical models in computer codes.
• Define and implement stockpile stewardship for specific weapons systems.
• Present and disseminate research results at scientific conferences and in peerreviewed publications in both open and classified environments internal and external to LLNL.  Responsibilities may also include interacting with external stakeholders both at DOE/NNSA and across the broader interagency as well as via offsite assignments.
• Develop expertise in interrelated fields of physics important to weapons assessment and certification.
• Travel minimally or substantially based on needs of projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities at the SES.3 Level

• Independently develop assess and provide in depth analysis of the complex physics interactions that take place in nuclear explosion where problems may not be well defined.
• Work as technical expert on multidisciplinary team.
• Guide the analysis and lead the design of experiments exploring the physics of nuclear explosives.

Qualifications :

• This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Qlevel clearance or active TopSecret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at the time of hire.
• PhD in physics engineering or a related field or equivalent level of demonstrated knowledge.
• Demonstrated record of completing outstanding research in relevant areas of physics and engineering.
• Experience with computerbased design and analysis of experiments.
• Demonstrated aptitude for mastering new fields of physics; a record of creativity physical insight and breadth of understanding in applications of complex physical processes.
• Experience in using advanced computational facilities for applied physics analysis and conducting applied physics research.
• Proficient verbal and written communication and presentation skills necessary to author technical and scientific reports publications invited papers and to deliver scientific presentations.
• Experience working effectively independently and in a multidisciplinary teamresearch environment.
• Demonstrated selfmotivation and initiative in addressing challenging problems.

Additional qualifications at the SES.3 Level

• Advanced knowledge of physics engineering or a related field.
• Significant experience and ability to lead independent work conducting applied physics research.
• Demonstrated record of leading top quality research in relevant areas of physics and engineering.

Please include a personalized cover letter with your application highlighting your qualifications and why youre interested in this position.

Additional Information :

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Position Information

This is a Career Indefinite position open to Lab employees and external candidates.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

• Included in 2025 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules *depending on project needs)
• Our values visit  Clearance

  This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Qlevel clearance or active Top Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at time of hire. 

  PreEmployment Drug Test

  External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a postoffer preemployment drug test. This includes testing for use of as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

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  If you use a medical device which pairs with a mobile device you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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  Remote Work :

  No

  
  

  Employment Type :

  Fulltime