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Explosives Experiment Diagnostics Lead - Active Security Clearance Required

LLNL · CA · Full-time · Posted 2026-09-04

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Job description

We have an opening for an Explosives Experiment Diagnostic Lead. You will assist the Explosives Experiment Fielding Leads and Explosive Research Experiment Leads (Ramrods) in the diagnostic fielding of the Flash X-Ray (FXR) radiography. Responsibilities include the operation, maintenance, repair and upgrade of the FXR accelerator, timing, firing, coordinating, reviewing, and implementing the designs, procurements, manufacturing, hardware and software systems associated with diagnostic data collection and execution of explosively driven experiments. The experiments are primarily conducted within Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s (LLNL) Site 300 Firing Areas but also occur at off-site facilities such as Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS), and others. This position is in the Design Physics Division within the Strategic Deterrence (SD) Directorate. This position may offer a hybrid schedule, which includes the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week, after a probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule, including the exact number of days required in the office and virtual work options, may vary based on the needs of the team and the organization. This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level. You Will Be responsible for, direct and oversee the safety posture, documentation, operation, maintenance, and upgrade of the FXR accelerator, and the development of processes and procedures for the safe and effective fielding and interfacing of diagnostic systems. Provide oversight and direction for a multidisciplinary team of operators to fulfill unique diagnostic electrical and mechanical requirements to achieve safe and secure operation of the FXR accelerator for explosive experiments diagnostic data capture. Develop and implement training plans and individual development programs for accelerator team. Provide solutions for the expansion, evolution, and optimization of all aspects of accelerator diagnostic fielding capabilities to keep pace with technological advances and programmatic requirements. Collaborate with the Coordinators, Fabricators, Technical Release Representative, Explosive Experiment Fielding Supervisor, Explosive Experiment Fielding Leads, Explosive Research Experiment Leads (Ramrods), Facilities Managers, Electronic Engineers, and other subject-matter experts throughout the explosively driven experiment community within LLNL, DoW, and the Nuclear Weapons Complex. Perform other duties as assigned. In Addition, at the TSS.4 Level Lead and contribute to long-term strategic program and budget planning. Define and guide technical and operational direction of the accelerator team. Set objectives and key results for diagnostic team members, ensuring alignment with Weapons Physics and Design (WPD) program goals. Manage and maintain the test schedule by balancing diagnostic personnel and resources in support of programmatic work for the Explosive Experiment Fielding Leads. Perform Explosive Experiment Fielding Lead responsibilities as requested. This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance or active Top-Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at the time of hire. Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field or equivalent combination of education and previous relevant experience. Advanced knowledge and experience with specialized diagnostic pulsed power equipment setup, operation, data collection, timing, and accelerator systems. Experience with internal and external stakeholder coordination or diagnostic data acquisition. Advanced verbal and written communication skills and experience delivering effective technical presentations and providing advice to management, regulators, reviewers, and stakeholders. Experience working independently and providing technical leadership or guidance to multidisciplinary teams in a research environment. Additional qualifications at the TSS.4 level Experience representing critical capabilities and needs to internal and external stakeholders and customers. Experience managing multiple technically intensive projects with competing priorities while meeting programmatic, safety, security, and operational requirements. Ability to identify and analyze sub-standard or failed processes, make immediate short-term corrections, and implement long term strategies to prevent recurrence of issues in future experiments. Demonstrated expertise leading, mentoring, and collaborating within multidisciplinary technical teams. Expert verbal and written communication skills and a demonstrated record of delivering top-quality results in relevant areas of science and engineering. Qualifications We Desire Experience working in an explosive or equivalent high-hazard operational area and the ability to work safely around high explosives. Comprehensive knowledge of processes and procedures for handling and storing classified information (data) and materials. Experience with linear induction electron beam accelerator system design or diagnostic data collection. Demonstrated experience implementing corrective actions and process improvements. Knowledge of identifying and analyzing risks to develop and implement effective controls for unique experimental activities. Knowledge and understanding of project management, including creating budgets, schedules, and resource plans in an R&D environment. Experience in the Strategic Deterrence weapons program and/or explosive hydrodynamic experimentation. Pay Range $154,950 - $235,692 Annually $154,950 - $196,476 Annually for the TSS.3 level $185,850 – $235,692 Annually for the TSS.4 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; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. An em