Senior Laser Project Engineer

Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability. 

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

Job Description

We are seeking a Senior Laser Project Engineer to lead innovative engineering projects in advanced laser systems. In this role, you will provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise to design, develop, and deploy cutting-edge systems and components for scientific, defense, and industrial applications. You will work on projects that require diverse engineering expertise, including laser systems engineering, computational simulation, precision design, advanced manufacturing, prototype development, and rigorous testing. This is an opportunity to work on impactful projects that push the boundaries of engineering and technology in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. This position is in the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division, within the Engineering Directorate and support the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate.

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.

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

You will

• Function independently with minimal direction, taking significant responsibility and using advanced knowledge and judgment to establish objectives, prioritize parallel tasks, allocate resources, and collaborate in the development of innovative methods/technology to guide the completion of projects and contribute to the development of organizational goals.
• Design, model, and evaluate laser systems and components, including laser amplifiers, laser diodes, pump shaping using micro-optics, laser energetics, amplified spontaneous emission, thermal effects, and depolarization.
• Perform offline assembly of laser components; measure, characterize, and analyze performance using laser diagnostics; design and build experimental tests to validate optical amplifiers, polarization components, mirrors, lenses, laser assemblies, and related hardware while supporting quality assurance, troubleshooting, and system performance improvement.
• Provide technical direction within assigned technical teams to define, develop, and deliver critical systems and components while ensuring alignment with project schedules and budgets.
• Perform complex hands-on work activities on electro-optical components using techniques and methods to ensure optimal performance which will include alignment, evaluation, calibration (offline and online), troubleshooting complex technical issues, data analysis (using computer-based data acquisition and controls), data archiving and system documentation.
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and oversee execution throughout the project lifecycle.
• Train, mentor, and coach team members, assisting in fostering professional growth and technical excellence.
• Prepare, deliver, and explain written and verbal presentations of technical work to stakeholders, including providing advice to management.
• Maintain and ensure quality standards for all deliverables and leverage team skills to successfully complete complex projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the SES.4 level

• Operate under consultative direction with substantial authority, using in-depth analysis and subject matter expertise in highly advanced concepts to resolve a range of highly complex problems, independently determine strategies, modify approaches, and pursue actions that impact organizational operations or directions and achieve long-term goals.
• Utilize existing resources and partnerships to develop innovative capabilities and expand the impact of projects.
• Serve as a recognized technical expert with sponsors, customers and industry partners to address needs and drive project success.
• Establish project vision, strategy and influence technical direction to drive successful outcomes for deliverables.

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Bachelor’s degree in physics, engineering