Target Fabrication and Materials Characterization Technologist

We are seeking a Laboratory Technologist to support target fabrication precision component assembly metallography sample preparation and microscopy within the Materials Science Divisions (MSD) Materials Characterization Center (MCC). You will perform a range of moderate to complex work in support of multiple LLNL programs and principal investigators including activities in the National Ignition Facility (NIF) HiZ Target Fabrication Laboratory.

The work includes fabrication metrology characterization and assembly of macro- to micro-scale precision engineered components and one-of-a-kind samples. Responsibilities include operation of computer-controlled and manually operated assembly stations dimensional inspection using microscopes and optical coordinate measuring machines preparation and installation of thin films into components or subassemblies and execution of multi-step target subassembly and base assembly procedures. The role will also involve work with hazardous materials including radioactive materials and beryllium performed within containment enclosures such as inert-atmosphere gloveboxes and fume hoods. The position supports timely delivery of high-quality results clear documentation and strong customer engagement within a collaborative R&D environment.

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

This position will be filled at either the 504.2 or 504.3 level depending on your qualifications. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if you are selected at the higher level.

You will

• Perform moderately complex to complex target fabrication precision assembly metallography and materials characterization activities including sample preparation polishing and optical microscopy.
• Utilize microscopes and optical coordinate measuring machines to perform dimensional inspection and metrology of precision components
• Operate computer-controlled and manually operated assembly stations and other laboratory instrumentation.
• Prepare assemble and analyze one-of-a-kind samples and components including hazardous materials such as beryllium and radioactive materials while following detailed instructions drawings and specifications.
• Interact effectively with resident staff and other engineering scientific technical and administrative personnel from a variety of organizations.
• Maintain a high level of administrative and on-the-job training required for work in hazardous environments cleanroom settings and with hazardous materials.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities at the 504.3 Level

• Provide advanced troubleshooting skills and independently identify complex technical problems and implement solutions.
• Create safety documents Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and other documentation including test reports.
• Acquire analyze and may interpret moderately complex data.

Qualifications :

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship
• Associate degree in Chemistry Materials Electronics Engineering or related field; or equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Experience in materials science sample preparation target fabrication precision engineering fabrication metrology or related laboratory functions.
• Broad understanding of materials science and/or materials engineering concepts including sample preparation polishing techniques and optical microscopy.
• Experience with precision engineering materials fabrication metrology and assembly of precision components.
• Experience operating computers instrumentation assembly stations microscopes and metrology equipment to collect analyze and document scientific results.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software including Word Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills including the ability to write and record precise information and interact effectively in a collaborative R&D environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to read and understand detailed instructions drawings specifications and analytical ability to diagnose and correct operational problems in equipment and tests.

Additional qualifications at the 504.3 level

• Advanced specialized technical expertise in one or more areas of chemistry materials science engineering or microfabrication.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex microfabrication problems.
• Significant experience with advanced analytical problem-solving and decision-making skills to develop creative solutions to complex problems.
• Advanced administrative and organizational skills include the use of computers and software such as MS-Word Excel PowerPoint and similar applications.

Qualifications we desire

• Experience working with hazardous materials and ability and willingness to work with complex conditions involving gloveboxes cryogens or radioactive materials.
• Experience with additional materials preparation and characterization tools such hardness testing electropolishing ion milling vacuum coating white-light interferometry and density measurements.
• Experience with instrument maintenance and design and fabrication of simple fixtures
• Experience with scanning electron microscopy techniques including hands-on SEM operation

Pay Range

$43.55 - $63.97 Hourly

$43.55 - $53.36 Hourly for the 504.2 level 

$52.23 - $63.97 Hourly for the 504.3 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 :

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 2026 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) 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. 

  Pre-Employment Drug Test

  External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

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  Remote Work :

  No

  
  

  Employment Type :

  Full-time