Plutonium Metallurgist Staff Scientist

We are seeking a Plutonium Metallurgist to support actinide materials processing and characterization. The successful candidate will analyze plutonium using metallography scanning electron microscopy (SEM) transmission electron microscopy (TEM) electron microprobe analysis (EMPA) X-ray photoelectron spectrometry (XPS) and/or Auger electron spectrometry (AES) and will perform or oversee associated equipment installation upgrades maintenance and repairs within a nuclear facility. The role includes collaborating with scientists engineers and technicians as well as training and mentoring colleagues in sample preparation and fissile material handling best practices. This position is in the Chemistry of Nuclear Materials group within the Materials Science Division.

Essential duties

• Handle prepare and transfer fissile materials in a nuclear facility in accordance with all safety and security requirements
• Plan and execute materials science experiments involving fissile materials including sample fabrication heat treatment microstructural characterization and property measurements
• Operate and maintain specialized equipment for sample preparation and characterization
• Earn and maintain Fissile Material Handler Certification
• Work with plutonium in gloveboxes and other contamination enclosures for extended periods
• Contribute to the development of methods techniques and evaluation criteria to meet sponsor needs in appropriate national security areas
• Prepare written analyses verbal briefings and other presentations that capture and communicate team results
• Perform other duties as assigned.

In addition at the SES.3 level

• Evaluate identify and develop advanced solutions for nuclear materials processing compatibility or aging issues
• Contribute to the development of new capabilities or experimental setups for emerging programmatic needs involving fissile materials
• Lead organized and pragmatic failure analysis campaigns under intense time pressures
• Mentor and collaborate with other scientists in and across multidisciplinary teams as necessary

Qualifications :

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy Qlevel security clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship
• B.S. in Materials Science Metallurgy or a closely related discipline or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Hands-on sample preparation and characterization experience with depth of knowledge in at least one of these areas: metallography SEM TEM XPS AES EPMA DSC/TGA mechanical testing
• Experience in laboratory equipment troubleshooting and maintenance
• Ability to work in a collaborative team research environment and to support fellow scientists engineers and technologists
• Effective verbal and written communication skills necessary to deliver presentations and prepare written reports explain technical information and advise management
• Interpersonal skills necessary to interact with a diverse set of scientists engineers and nontechnical staff within a collaborative research environment

In addition at the SES.3 level

• MS or Ph.D. in Materials Science Metallurgy or a closely related discipline or the equivalent combination of education and experience Advanced knowledge and significant experience in physical and mechanical metallurgy microstructural characterization and the maintenance of related equipment
• Demonstrated experience designing executing and interpreting complex experiments including statistical analysis and uncertainty quantification where appropriate
• Track record of independent highimpact scientific contributions as demonstrated by publications in reputable journals
• Proven ability to lead or substantially contribute to multidisciplinary research teams including planning tasks meeting milestones and delivering on programmatic objectives
• Familiarity with safety basis documentation conduct of operations and formal work planning and control in experimental nuclear facilities

Additional Information :

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

Position Information

This is a Flexible Term appointment which is for a definite period not to exceed six years.  If final candidate is a Career Indefinite employee Career Indefinite status may be maintained (should funding allow).

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)
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  This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level 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.  Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship. 

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  Remote Work :

  No

  
  

  Employment Type :

  Full-time