Materials Engineer Materials Scientist

We have an opening for a Materials Scientist and/or Materials Engineer. You will work in a team environment under the guidance of staff members to conduct experiments investigating the relationships between the process structure properties and performance of various materials with an emphasis on polymers. This position supports a range of activities in materials characterization including differential scanning calorimetry thermogravimetric analysis rheometry microscopy and Xray diffraction for projects that support national security programs. Responsibilities may include but are not limited to quality assurance quality control equipment maintenance calibration setup experimental data collection data analysis and reporting. This position is within the Materials Engineering Division (MED) of the Engineering Directorate.

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 

• Work under the general guidance of staff materials scientists in areas such as chemical and materials sampling materials characterization materials processing sample preparation mechanical testing and data analysis to resolve process challenges and optimize the utilization of polymers.
• Conduct analyze and present data from experiments to develop and improve the understanding of materials.
• Determine creative solutions to technical problems involving the processing and utilization of polymers and alloys by reviewing scientific and technical literature as well as experimental techniques.
• Disseminate results including methods developed and stay current on advancements in materials development and characterization methods.
• Collaborate with scientists engineers and technologists to accomplish research goals.
• Use knowledge gained from testing to make informed recommendations for changes to processing methods in order to optimize material properties.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities at the SES.2 level

• Work under minimal guidance in areas such as materials development materials processing welding engineering fracture toughness testing mechanical testing and materials characterization to resolve process challenges and optimize the utilization of metals and alloys.
• Contribute to the achievement of project and organizational goals.
• Provide guidance and/or informal mentoring to lessexperienced personnel as needed.

Qualifications :

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Qlevel security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Bachelors degree in Materials Science and Engineering or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Experience conducting directed experiments related to the processing characterization of materials and mechanical testing.
• Experience with the technical analysis of characterization data sample preparation and chemical/material sampling.
• Experience working in a quality assurance and quality control environment evaluating material properties.
• Fundamental knowledge of maintaining calibrating and performing experiments using a range of characterization methods.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment document analyses and prepare present and explain technical information and publications.
• Ability to anticipate and adapt to evolving programmatic directions and priorities.

Additional qualifications at the SES.2 level

• Experience with material characterization techniques such as Xray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy.
• Knowledge of advanced mechanical testing methods such as fracture and fatigue testing.
• Comprehensive knowledge of polymer characterization techniques.
• Strong skills and comprehensive knowledge related to operating characterization equipment.

Qualifications We Desire

• Masters degree in Materials Science and Engineering.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team demonstrating effective creativity organizational and interpersonal skills.

Additional Information :

#LIOnsite

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 a Department of Energy (DOE) Qlevel clearance.  If you are selected we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing.  Qlevel clearance requires U.S. citizenship. 

  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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  Remote Work :

  No

  
  

  Employment Type :

  Fulltime