Integrated Optics Module Field Lead

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Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.

We are dedicated to fostering a culture that values individuals, talents, partnerships, ideas, experiences, and different perspectives, recognizing their importance to the continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.

Pay Range

$50.28 - $61.57 Hourly

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.

We have an opening for an Integrated Optics Module Field Lead. You will support the Target and Experimental Systems (TExS) section of the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science Directorate (NIF & PS).  The National Ignition Facility is home to the world’s most powerful and energetic laser.  You will lead approved scope of work and provide advanced technical solutions in the setup, recovery, and maintenance of Final Optics Assemblies and Integrated Optics Modules (IOM) in support of NIF shot operations. This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division of the Engineering Directorate.

NIF is a 24/7 operational facility, and operators and Field Leads typically work on a 3/12-4/12 schedule to support operations, with the last two hours of each shift being overtime. The dayshift work hours are from 06:30-19:30 and the owl shift hours are from 18:30-07:30. This role would initially be centered around IOM exchange times and maintenance days, and the expectation would be that the work schedule aligns with the facility availability to perform the work. The schedule may change over time.

In this role you will

• Lead, train, and mentor a team of technicians in exchanging IOM’s.
• Perform and establish the exchange work scope such as, IOM qual, hoisting and rigging, optics exchanges, and Rad Worker 2.
• Provide advanced level technical support for the installation and operation of complex diagnostic systems and final optics assemblies for maintenance and commissioning activities including maintaining operational status of NIF facility subsystems, while working independently with minimal direction.
• Provide technical guidance and direction to the Target Area Operators technician staff to meet changing priorities on the floor.
• Communicate and coordinate final optics activities with the supervisory staff in the NIF Control Room.
• Identify, analyze, implement, document, and maintain process improvements and alternative approaches for complex technical problems, procedures, and qualifications using independent creativity and judgment and by establishing or modifying guidelines, techniques, and procedures as necessary.
• Design, fabricate, assemble, and disassemble complex mechanical components and systems including planning, setting priorities, and selection of equipment and work methods.
• Plan, organize, and lead complete projects of limited scope.
• Lead technicians in balancing safety, security, quality, and efficiency.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Associate degree in Mechanical Technology, Electrical Technology, or a related technical field; or a technology related certificate; or diploma with related work experience and related course work; or equivalent combination of education and experience in a technical or engineering field that includes mechanical training.
• Advanced level technical skills and understanding of relevant technologies and processes, including interpreting and utilizing vacuum systems and ability to solve complex hardware or system challenges.
• Experience working independently and effectively on challenging and complex technical assignments with proven ability to meet project requirements and deadlines. Advanced experience with  setup, recovery, and maintenance of diagnostic equipment and/or optical assemblies.
• Advanced experience making decisions regarding a variety of complex technical problems, and in providing technical direction, leadership, and mentorship to others in technical operations or within an R&D environment.
• Advanced experience establishing appropriate work methods and setting priorities, and demonstrated ability to regularly make decisions, solve complex problems, establish and/or modify guidelines, techniques, and procedures.
• Advanced experience working with formal procedures, work controls, and configuration management.
• Ability to complete and maintain certifications as required by the position.
• Ability to work in confined or restricted movement areas, climb stairs, stand, or walk for long periods of time. Ability to work in areas in areas of Beryllium and radiological contamination and where use of a respirator may be required.
• Effective verbal and written communication, feedback, and presentation skills necessary to successfully collaborate in a team environment and present and explain technical information.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience working with radiological materials and associated controls.
• Experience with the development, operation, and maintenance of mechanical systems and clean protocol techniques, coupled with attention to detail.
• Experience working with mechanical drawings and procedures.
• Ability to pass NIF Radiological Worker II qualification.

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

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

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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