Mechanical Design Engineer (R&D Engineer 2/3)
Los Alamos National Laboratory· Research & Development (National Security)· Oct 7, 2026 · 21d ago
Los Alamos, New Mexico
In office
Full-time
Mid
$128K–$216K
4+ years exp
Job description
What You Will Do
The Accelerator Operations and Technology (AOT) Division provides leadership in the Laboratory's core capability of Accelerators and Electrodynamics. Accelerators and Electrodynamics enables charged particle acceleration through controlled utilization of electromagnetic fields, supporting National Security missions involving radiographic imaging, remote measurements of electromagnetic signatures, and development of new capabilities. In particular, AOT operates the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) proton accelerator complex, and conducts applied research and development in accelerator-focused technologies as they apply to Free Electron Lasers, National Security Science programs, and future accelerator missions. The Mechanical Design Engineering Group (AOT-MDE) supports division goals in a number of technical functions. The groups core functions expand a wide range of accelerator components and systems, including cooling water systems, vacuum systems, electromagnets, and electromechanical diagnostic devices. Engineers perform design and analysis of these systems, as well as direct the maintenance and improvement projects of the LANSCE accelerator.
AOT-MDE is seeking a strongly self-motivated Mechanical Engineer (R&D Engineer 2/3) to be a member of the Engineering Team.
This position will be filled at either the R&D Engineer 2/3 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
R&D Engineer 2 $106,400 - $176,000
As an R&D Engineer, you will support ongoing projects within MDE as well as the LANSCE Modernization Project (LAMP). This work includes the design and analysis of structural and thermohydraulic systems, often culminating in experimental validation. In particular, proficiency with CAD tools for both design and analysis as well as project execution is essential to this role.
R&D Engineer 3 $128,000-$215,900
In addition to the responsibilities outlined at the lower level, the selected candidate at this level is expected to possess in-depth knowledge of mechanical engineering principles previously stated for R&D Engineer 2, project execution, and the mechanical design of accelerator components and ancillary systems.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
• Proven track record of contributing to high-impact R&D projects through design, analysis, prototyping, fabrication and documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully execute project deliverables and meet technical, schedule, and performance objectives.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings drafted utilizing ASME Y14.5 standards.
• Experience with CAD and CAM software, specifically SolidWorks.
• Demonstrated strong work ethic with ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness and ability to work with the team hands on performing repairs, maintenance and new installation along the LANSCE beam line.
• Demonstrated ability to interact and communicate effectively with scientists, engineers, and technicians.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and a commitment to doing work safely and securely.
• Be capable and willing to work in radiation areas while adhering to ALARA principles.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to obtain Q clearance.
Additional Job Requirements for R&D Engineer 3:
• Knowledge of linear accelerator operation, configuration and components.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and execute project deliverables while meeting technical, schedule, and performance objectives.
• Knowledgeable of all types of machining and welding techniques, equipment and practices.
• In depth knowledge and experience with high performance CAD/CAE software such as SolidWorks and ANSYS.
Education/Experience at lower level: Position requires a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 4 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Education/Experience at higher level: Position requires a Master's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 6 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
• Demonstrated experience in the design and analysis of linear accelerator components, operations and configuration management.
• Experience with the full R&D project lifecycle, from requirements generation, validation and verification, prototyping and testing.
• Possess active Q clearance.
Note to Applicants: For Full Consideration along with your resume, please submit a detailed cover letter explaining how you meet each of the minimum requirements and any of desired qualifications.
Work Environment:
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory. Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
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Dental
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401(K)
Pto
Parental Leave
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