Physics World
Materials Scientist - Staff Scientist
Physics World, Livermore, California, United States, 94551
Overview
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is a world‑leading research center that applies advanced science and engineering to strengthen United States security and improve global well‑being. LLNL welcomes individuals who bring expertise, curiosity, and collaboration to solve complex challenges. Pay Range
$117,180 – $178,392 Annually $117,180 – $148,608 Annually for the SES.1 level $140,700 – $178,392 Annually for the SES.2 level Pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. Position pay is based on competencies, education, experience, and business needs. Job Description
We have an opening for a
Materials Scientist
to support research of explosives and polymers in the areas of materials aging, compatibility, and performance. This role is an integral member of the Aging & Compatibility of Manufactured Explosives (ACME) group within the Energetic Materials & Design (EMD) section, supporting the Energetic Materials Center (EMC). The position may offer a hybrid schedule, allowing work from home one or more days per week after probation. The exact in‑office days and virtual options may vary based on team and organizational needs. The position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional responsibilities will be assigned if hired at the higher level. You Will
Conduct limited complexity directed research to understand material aging phenomena. Contribute to the development of diagnostics for materials aging, compatibility, and performance assessments of explosives and explosive‑containing components. Collaborate with scientists, engineers, technicians, and integration experts from LLNL and its sponsors in all aspects of system development. Design, implement, and qualify cutting‑edge research and system development. Contribute to project and program milestone completion and provide solutions to problems of limited complexity using standard techniques and methodologies. Work with energetic materials and obtain LLNL certification to handle explosives. Perform other duties as assigned. Additional Job Responsibilities – SES.2 Level
Independently perform exploratory operations using a variety of analytical instrumentation (e.g., FTIR, profilometry, XRF, DSC, and Raman). Document development activities, write reports/memos, and deliver updates and project briefings external to the working group. Define and prioritize tasks and goals to ensure project needs are addressed in a timely and efficient manner. Work independently and with teams to solve moderately complex to complex problems in the areas of engineering hardware design, chemical analysis, spectroscopy, and testing that require analysis and creative use of established techniques and methods. Qualifications
Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q‑level security clearance, requiring U.S. citizenship. Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Practical hands‑on experience with scientific testing of materials. Ability to obtain certification as an explosives handler (LLNL training). Ability to perform independent work with technical objectives and meet schedule and deliverables for multiple concurrent projects with a range of priorities. Ability to work in a collaborative research and development environment. Additional Qualifications – SES.2 Level
Comprehensive knowledge in one or more of the following: engineering hardware design, chemical analysis, spectroscopic techniques, material testing methods. Experience analyzing and interpreting experimental data. Proficient verbal and written communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills necessary to work with experimental teams. Qualifications We Desire
Experience working in an environment with stringent safety and security policies. Working knowledge of and/or experience with material degradation. Familiarity with programming in Java, Python, or Matlab. Familiarity with computer‑aided design (CAD) software and/or creating engineering drawings. Position Information
This is a Flexible Term appointment, which is for a definite period not to exceed six years. If the 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 selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matters. 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), LLNL must meet restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on 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 that 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. How to Identify Fake Job Advertisements
We are aware of recruitment scams where people or entities misuse the name of LLNL to post fake job advertisements. LLNL never extends an offer without a personal interview and will never charge a fee for joining our company. All current job openings are displayed on the Career Page under “Find Your Job” on our website. If you encounter a job posting or have been approached with a job offer that you suspect may be fraudulent, we strongly recommend you do not respond. To learn more about recruitment scams, visit 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. California Privacy Notice
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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) is a world‑leading research center that applies advanced science and engineering to strengthen United States security and improve global well‑being. LLNL welcomes individuals who bring expertise, curiosity, and collaboration to solve complex challenges. Pay Range
$117,180 – $178,392 Annually $117,180 – $148,608 Annually for the SES.1 level $140,700 – $178,392 Annually for the SES.2 level Pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. Position pay is based on competencies, education, experience, and business needs. Job Description
We have an opening for a
Materials Scientist
to support research of explosives and polymers in the areas of materials aging, compatibility, and performance. This role is an integral member of the Aging & Compatibility of Manufactured Explosives (ACME) group within the Energetic Materials & Design (EMD) section, supporting the Energetic Materials Center (EMC). The position may offer a hybrid schedule, allowing work from home one or more days per week after probation. The exact in‑office days and virtual options may vary based on team and organizational needs. The position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional responsibilities will be assigned if hired at the higher level. You Will
Conduct limited complexity directed research to understand material aging phenomena. Contribute to the development of diagnostics for materials aging, compatibility, and performance assessments of explosives and explosive‑containing components. Collaborate with scientists, engineers, technicians, and integration experts from LLNL and its sponsors in all aspects of system development. Design, implement, and qualify cutting‑edge research and system development. Contribute to project and program milestone completion and provide solutions to problems of limited complexity using standard techniques and methodologies. Work with energetic materials and obtain LLNL certification to handle explosives. Perform other duties as assigned. Additional Job Responsibilities – SES.2 Level
Independently perform exploratory operations using a variety of analytical instrumentation (e.g., FTIR, profilometry, XRF, DSC, and Raman). Document development activities, write reports/memos, and deliver updates and project briefings external to the working group. Define and prioritize tasks and goals to ensure project needs are addressed in a timely and efficient manner. Work independently and with teams to solve moderately complex to complex problems in the areas of engineering hardware design, chemical analysis, spectroscopy, and testing that require analysis and creative use of established techniques and methods. Qualifications
Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q‑level security clearance, requiring U.S. citizenship. Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Practical hands‑on experience with scientific testing of materials. Ability to obtain certification as an explosives handler (LLNL training). Ability to perform independent work with technical objectives and meet schedule and deliverables for multiple concurrent projects with a range of priorities. Ability to work in a collaborative research and development environment. Additional Qualifications – SES.2 Level
Comprehensive knowledge in one or more of the following: engineering hardware design, chemical analysis, spectroscopic techniques, material testing methods. Experience analyzing and interpreting experimental data. Proficient verbal and written communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills necessary to work with experimental teams. Qualifications We Desire
Experience working in an environment with stringent safety and security policies. Working knowledge of and/or experience with material degradation. Familiarity with programming in Java, Python, or Matlab. Familiarity with computer‑aided design (CAD) software and/or creating engineering drawings. Position Information
This is a Flexible Term appointment, which is for a definite period not to exceed six years. If the 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 selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matters. 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), LLNL must meet restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on 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 that 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. How to Identify Fake Job Advertisements
We are aware of recruitment scams where people or entities misuse the name of LLNL to post fake job advertisements. LLNL never extends an offer without a personal interview and will never charge a fee for joining our company. All current job openings are displayed on the Career Page under “Find Your Job” on our website. If you encounter a job posting or have been approached with a job offer that you suspect may be fraudulent, we strongly recommend you do not respond. To learn more about recruitment scams, visit 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. California Privacy Notice
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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr