Mechanical Technologist/Senior Mechanical Technologist - High Explosives

We have an opening for a Mechanical Technologist/Senior Mechanical Technologist to support new and on-going experimentation within the High Explosives Application Facility (HEAF). You will contribute to the fulfillment of technical projects by working with Explosive Research Experimental Leads (EREL’s), Team Leads, Engineers, Scientists and Technicians in the design, fabrication, assembly, and fielding of experimental assemblies. This position is within the National Security Engineering Division within the Engineering Directorate.

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

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 you are selected at the higher level.

You will 

• Provide general technical support to engineering, scientific, and technical staff to plan and conduct experiments at LLNL and other off-site locations in support of various programmatic activities.
• Design, fabricate, assemble and disassemble moderately complex mechanical components and systems, in accordance with work control process and procedure requirements.
• Apply intermediate knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes to solve mechanical problems.
• Provide operations, maintenance, design, fabrication, assembly support, and maintain systems documentation and experimental records.
• Design, assemble, measure, and field explosively driven experiments in HEAF under established procedures and technical direction.
• Ensure that support and experimental areas are kept clean, uncluttered, and in a state of readiness.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the 533.3 level

• Provide advanced technical support for the assembly and disassembly of complex systems and assemblies.
• Design, fabricate, assemble, and disassemble complex mechanical components and systems including planning and selecting materials, equipment and methods.
• Assist in developing test parameters, and in the comprehensive troubleshooting and testing of materials, components, or systems; identify problems and provide input on solutions.
• Maintain accurate and detailed technical records of experimental design and data to ensure results are properly annotated and organized for reporting.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-Level security clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship.
• Associate degree in Mechanical, Industrial, or Manufacturing Technology or equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Experience solving a variety of moderately complex technical problems in completion of work assignments.
• Intermediate knowledge and experience with mechanical fabrication, machining, and assembly.
• Intermediate knowledge of engineering hardware design and testing processes.
• Ability to read and follow engineering notes, sketches, drawings, specifications, and procedures.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills and ability to work constructively in a highly collaborative team environment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain certification as a High Explosive Handler.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. in a safe and controlled manner.
• Ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Additional qualifications, at the 533.3 level

• Advanced technical skills and knowledge of engineering principles to solve complex problems using established guidelines, techniques, and procedures.
• Ability to read and follow complex assembly procedures, engineering notes, sketches, and engineering drawings.
• Experience working with high level precision component assemblies with tight tolerances.
• Significant experience working independently, under minimal supervision, on technical assignments and proven ability to meet project requirements and deadlines.

Qualifications We Desire

• Demonstrated initiative, resourcefulness, and ability to work independently.
• Significant multi-process welding experience (TIG, MIG, ARC)
• Knowledge of and experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing standards.
• Experience with 3D modeling software (SolidWorks, Creo, Inventor)
• Experience with Microsoft Office applications, such as Word, Excel, Project and PowerPoint

Pay Range

$43.55 - $63.97 Hourly

$43.55 - $53.36 Hourly for the 533.2 level
$52.23 - $63.97 Hourly for the 533.3 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; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. An employee’s 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. 

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

This is a Career Indefinite position, open to Lab employees and external candidates.

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 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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