Cryogenic Operations Field Lead Technologist

We have an opening for a Cryogenics (Cryo) Operations Field Lead Technologist. You will first qualify as a Cryogenic System Operator (CSO) to learn the role in which you will eventually lead. You will support the Cryogenic and Target Systems and Large Positioners operations group of the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science Directorate (NIF & PS).  You will establish scope of work and provide advanced technical solutions in development operation and maintenance of cryogenic processes and subsystem operations related to fielding targets in the cryogenic target positioning systems. This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division of the Engineering Directorate.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will 

• Provide advanced technical support while applying fundamental knowledge of installation and operation of complex cryo systems for maintenance and commissioning activities and maintain operational status of NIF facility subsystems.
• Maintain the daily operational schedule with real-time problem resolution ensuring the set up and operation of intricate cryo systems and equipment comprehensive troubleshooting and maintenance and advanced methods of data collection.
• Provide technical guidance and direction to the Cryogenic technician staff to meet changing priorities on the floor and in the Control Room under minimal supervision/direction.
• Communicate and coordinate Cryogenic and Target Systems and Large Positioners activities with the supervisory staff in the NIF Control Room.
• Analyze process improvements for complex technical problems and develop and author procedures manuals and qualifications.
• Provide technical expertise advice and direction to technicians making frequent decisions with regular independent interaction with scientists engineers and skilled technical personnel with follow-up to supervisor outside of work group.
• Serve as primary technical contact for the Cryogenic System and its components to respond in real-time to off-normal occurrences.  
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications :

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Associates degree in Mechanical technology or related field or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Advanced skills and understanding of relevant technologies and processes including interpreting and utilizing cryo group equipment vacuum systems and ability to solve hardware or system challenges.
• Experience providing technical direction to others in a technical operations or R&D environment.
• Ability to regularly make decisions solve problems establish and/or modify guidelines techniques and procedures.
• Proven ability to establish appropriate work methods and set priorities.
• Experience working with formal procedures work controls and configuration management.
• Ability to work in confined or restricted movement areas climb stairs stand or walk for long periods of time.
• Ability to work in areas of Beryllium and radiological contamination and where use of a respirator may be required.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment and present and explain technical information.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience working with radiological materials and associated controls.
• Experience with the development operation and maintenance of cryogenic processes vacuum systems and gas handling systems.
• Ability to pass NIF Radiological Worker II qualification.

Pay Range

$52.23 - $63.97 Hourly

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting.  An employees position within the salary range will be based on several factors including but not limited to specific competencies relevant education qualifications certifications experience skills seniority geographic location performance and business or organizational needs.

Additional Information :

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

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

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

• Included in 2026 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