Explosives Research Experiment Lead

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is seeking an Explosives Research Experiment Lead to join the Strategic Deterrence (SD) Directorate. LLNL is at the forefront of advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability, tackling challenges in nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense.

This position offers a hybrid schedule with potential for remote work after a probationary period, subject to team and organizational needs.

This role can be filled at either the SES.3 or SES.4 level, depending on your qualifications.

About the Role

As an Explosives Research Experiment Lead, you will spearhead experimental activities involving high explosives and energetic materials. Your work will directly support the stewardship of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, conventional weapons design, counterterrorism efforts, and commercial partnerships. You will operate with limited direction, collaborating with a high-level technical team at state-of-the-art facilities across the DOE weapons complex.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, diagnose, analyze, and interpret explosively driven hydrodynamic experiments.
• Manage and oversee multiple complex experiments concurrently.
• Champion and lead original scientific/engineering projects to advance hydrodynamic experiment design.
• Develop experimental requirements and oversee component implementation.
• Identify, advocate for, and facilitate the integration of advanced diagnostics and data analysis techniques.
• Perform technical quality assurance, including dry runs, to ensure high-quality data acquisition.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data, document results, identify problems, and communicate lessons learned.
• Present and disseminate research results to sponsors in both open and classified environments.
• Travel as required by projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional Responsibilities (SES.4 Level)

• Independently develop expertise in related fields of physics, diagnostic techniques, or data analysis.
• Anticipate project shortcomings and direct resources for effective solutions.
• Lead projects involving the broader scientific community external to LLNL.

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance (requires U.S. citizenship).
• Master’s degree in Physics, Engineering, a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Advanced knowledge in a specific area applicable to hydrodynamic testing.
• Experience performing hands-on experimental science in test facility environments and familiarity with formal conduct of operations.
• Experience managing medium-sized technical projects.
• Self-motivation, initiative, and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Significant experience completing or leading top-quality research in relevant physics and engineering areas.
• Ability to travel.
• Advanced interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration and presentation.

Additional Qualifications (SES.4 Level)

• PhD in Physics, Engineering, a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Subject-matter expertise in specific areas applicable to hydrodynamic testing.
• Extensive experience leading large, multi-organizational technical projects.
• Ability to lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams.
• Substantial experience presenting advanced research results at scientific conferences and in peer-reviewed publications.
• Substantial experience communicating results to external sponsors.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience working with explosives or other high-hazard materials.
• Experience with computer-aided design tools.
• Experience with dynamic radiography, high-speed photography, Photonic Doppler Velocimetry, radiometry, pulsed power, system-generated EMP, grounding/shielding, or modeling ionizing radiation effects.
• Experience with scientific data analysis using programming languages like C++, Python, or MATLAB.
• Knowledge of the SD weapons program or explosive hydrodynamic experimentation.

Compensation

• SES.3 Level: $175,530 - $222,564 Annually
• SES.4 Level: $210,630 - $267,060 Annually

Note: The final salary will be determined by factors such as specific competencies, education, qualifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business needs.

Benefits

• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (depending on project needs)

Additional Information

• This is a Career Indefinite position, open to both Lab employees and external candidates.
• Requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance.
• Subject to random drug testing.
• External applicants must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test.
• Restrictions may apply to the use/possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas.
• A job-related pre-placement medical examination may be required.
• LLNL is an equal opportunity employer.