Plutonium Metallurgist - Staff Scientist

We are seeking a Plutonium Metallurgist to support actinide materials processing and characterization. The successful candidate will analyze plutonium using metallography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), electron microprobe analysis (EMPA), X-ray photoelectron spectrometry (XPS), and/or Auger electron spectrometry (AES), and will perform or oversee associated equipment installation, upgrades, maintenance, and repairs within a nuclear facility. The role includes collaborating with scientists, engineers, and technicians, as well as training and mentoring colleagues in sample preparation and fissile material handling best practices. This position is in the Chemistry of Nuclear Materials group within the Materials Science Division.

Essential duties

• Handle, prepare, and transfer fissile materials in a nuclear facility in accordance with all safety and security requirements
• Plan and execute materials science experiments involving fissile materials, including sample fabrication, heat treatment, microstructural characterization, and property measurements
• Operate and maintain specialized equipment for sample preparation and characterization
• Earn and maintain Fissile Material Handler Certification
• Work with plutonium in gloveboxes and other contamination enclosures for extended periods
• Contribute to the development of methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria to meet sponsor needs in appropriate national security areas
• Prepare written analyses, verbal briefings, and other presentations that capture and communicate team results
• Perform other duties as assigned.

In addition, at the SES.3 level

• Evaluate, identify, and develop advanced solutions for nuclear materials processing, compatibility, or aging issues
• Contribute to the development of new capabilities or experimental setups for emerging programmatic needs involving fissile materials
• Lead organized and pragmatic failure analysis campaigns under intense time pressures
• Mentor and collaborate with other scientists in and across multidisciplinary teams as necessary

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy Q‑level security clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship
• B.S. in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or a closely related discipline or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Hands-on sample preparation and characterization experience with depth of knowledge in at least one of these areas: metallography, SEM, TEM, XPS, AES, EPMA, DSC/TGA, mechanical testing
• Experience in laboratory equipment troubleshooting and maintenance
• Ability to work in a collaborative team research environment and to support fellow scientists, engineers, and technologists
• Effective verbal and written communication skills necessary to deliver presentations and prepare written reports, explain technical information, and advise management
• Interpersonal skills necessary to interact with a diverse set of scientists, engineers, and nontechnical staff within a collaborative research environment

In addition, at the SES.3 level

• MS or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Metallurgy, or a closely related discipline, or the equivalent combination of education and experience Advanced knowledge and significant experience in physical and mechanical metallurgy, microstructural characterization and the maintenance of related equipment
• Demonstrated experience designing, executing, and interpreting complex experiments, including statistical analysis and uncertainty quantification where appropriate
• Track record of independent, high‑impact scientific contributions as demonstrated by publications in reputable journals
• Proven ability to lead or substantially contribute to multi‑disciplinary research teams, including planning tasks, meeting milestones, and delivering on programmatic objectives
• Familiarity with safety basis documentation, conduct of operations, and formal work planning and control in experimental nuclear facilities

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 2025 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 https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values

Security 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.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession.  This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.  

If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas.  Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.

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To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory.  If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request. 

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The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here.