Experimental Physicist

We have an opening for an Experimental Physicist to support diamond anvil cell (DAC) experiments and related high-pressure physics research. You will work with physicists and technical staff to prepare execute and support experiments involving radiological samples specialized containment systems and experimental hardware. This role supports safe efficient and schedule-driven experimental operations across multiple laboratory spaces and contributes directly to experimental readiness radiological material movement and laboratory reliability.

This position is in the Condensed Matter Section Physics Division within the Physical and Life Sciences Directorate.

This position will be filled at either the SES.1 or SES.2 level depending on your qualifications. Additional job duties will be assigned at the higher level.

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

You will 

• Support diamond anvil cell and related high-pressure physics experiments by assisting with experiment preparation setup execution and post-experiment activities.
• Assist with the preparation handling containment packaging transfer and shipment of radiological samples in accordance with Department of Transportation Department of Energy and Laboratory requirements.
• Prepare DAC assemblies and perform precision triple-seal containment work for radiological samples where accuracy contamination control and adherence to procedures are essential to experimental success.
• Assemble maintain modify and repair experimental hardware fixtures and mechanical components used in DAC and related laboratory experiments.
• Perform routine maintenance troubleshooting repair and readiness checks for scientific equipment laboratory instrumentation high-pressure systems and related laboratory support systems.
• Work from procedures drawings and technical direction to support laboratory operations hardware preparation and experimental activities.
• Coordinate with scientists and support personnel to help meet experimental schedules sample movement needs and laboratory readiness requirements.
• Document technical work maintenance activities equipment status and experimental support activities.
• Maintain a high level of safety awareness and follow written safety procedures while coordinating hazardous activities with ES&H and other organizations as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional responsibilities at the SES.2 level

• Perform assignments of broader scope and moderate complexity in support of DAC and related high-pressure physics experiments with the ability to work independently on defined technical tasks.
• Coordinate radiological sample preparation containment packaging transfer shipment and related logistics across multiple organizations to support schedule-critical experimental activities.
• Apply broad technical knowledge to troubleshoot and resolve moderately complex problems involving experimental hardware containment systems radiological sample handling and laboratory operations.
• Design fabricate assemble modify and maintain simple to moderately complex mechanical components and experimental systems; translate technical concepts into drawings and fabrication-ready deliverables in coordination with internal shops or external vendors.
• Perform and coordinate preventive maintenance troubleshooting repair operational readiness checks and corrective actions for scientific equipment laboratory instrumentation high-pressure systems gas regulators eyewash stations and related laboratory support systems across multiple laboratory spaces.
• Identify equipment workflow and operational issues; recommend and implement improvements using established methods procedures and sound technical judgment.
• Support technical handoffs and coordination among scientists and support organizations to help ensure deadlines and operational milestones are met.
• Clearly communicate technical information and document results procedures and support activities.

Qualifications :

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Bachelors degree in physics engineering chemistry materials science or a related technical field or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Knowledge of fundamental concepts practices and procedures in physics laboratory research or experimental support.
• Experience supporting laboratory research prototype or other technical environments.
• Experience with experimental hardware laboratory equipment instrumentation or related mechanical systems.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills necessary to work in a team environment and document technical work.

Additional Qualifications at the SES.2 level

• Relevant experience demonstrating the ability to perform independent work in a scientific engineering or technical environment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of concepts in physics engineering or related technical disciplines and working knowledge of related fields as applied to the assignment.
• Experience applying technical principles theories and concepts to solve moderately complex problems.
• Experience supporting the preparation execution troubleshooting maintenance or improvement of experimental hardware scientific equipment laboratory instrumentation or related laboratory operations.
• Experience designing fabricating assembling modifying and maintaining simple to moderately complex mechanical components fixtures or laboratory systems.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills necessary to effectively collaborate and explain technical information.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience supporting diamond anvil cell experiments high-pressure physics research condensed matter experiments or related materials science or physics laboratory work.
• Experience with safe and secure handling packaging coordination or transportation of radiological hazardous or otherwise controlled materials.
• Knowledge of fundamentals of radiation contamination control radioactive sources containment methods and radiation detection techniques.
• Experience performing precision assembly or containment work requiring strong attention to detail and quality control.
• Experience using CAD software such as SolidWorks or Creo/ProE to produce 3D models fabrication drawings and design revisions.
• Experience supporting or troubleshooting high-pressure systems and associated laboratory hardware.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and ability to understand how components equipment and processes fit together in an experimental environment.
• Demonstrated initiative sound judgment and attention to detail in supporting laboratory readiness technical documentation or complex technical operations.

Pay Range

$121830 - $154500 Annually for the SES.1 level 

$146340 - $185544 Annually for the SES.2 level 

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

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• 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