What You Will Do As a Machinist 4 reporting to the Trace Analytical Chemistry (TAC) Team within the Nuclear and Radiochemistry Group (C-NR), you will provide mechanical design, fabrication, and technical support for critical R&D and operational programs. Your work will directly support Chemistry Division as well as other customers with a focus on developing high-precision components and systems that meet stringent standards for FDA and DOE Bioassay compliance. In this role, you'll collaborate closely with scientists, engineers, and researchers to translate complex experimental and operational needs into robust mechanical solutions. You will use the advanced design and fabrication capabilities at TA-48 to deliver high-quality, innovative results that drive scientific progress and mission success. Key responsibilities include: • Designing and fabricating custom parts and systems to support technical experiments and operational process flows. • Consulting with internal customers to define requirements, provide design guidance, and determine optimal solutions. • Producing technical drawings, documentation, and quality assurance materials in support of project deliverables. • Managing project timelines and deliverables with a high degree of independence and accountability. • Ensuring all work is performed in compliance with applicable safety, security, and quality assurance protocols. • This is a hands-on technical role ideal for a candidate who thrives in a dynamic, collaborative environment. You will contribute to cutting-edge research and national security missions while operating with a high degree of autonomy and professionalism. What You Need Minimum Job Requirements: • Experience using a variety of fabrication equipment (CNC and manual lathes and mills, EDM wire) • Experience interfacing with a diverse customer base • Working in a multi-disciplinary team environment as well as the ability to work independently with initiative • Demonstrated ability to accurately document fabrication designs • Ability to obtain a Q clearance which normally requires U.S. citizenship Education/Experience: Position requires an Associate's Degree (AAS) in Machining Technologies or equivalent precision metalworking program and 6 years of experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. Desired Qualifications: • Experience in prototype design • Experience using Solidworks software package • Completion of a 4-year apprenticeship or equivalent • Familiarity with 3-D printing Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): Color discrimination, peripheral vision, depth perception, binocular vision, reading vision, ability to smell, ability to hear in a normal range (500 to 3000 htz), sitting, standing, walking, climbing stairs, bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, twisting the trunk or back, reaching overhead, reaching horizontally, reaching down, gripping with the hands, applying torque with hands or arms, pressing with hands or arms, pushing with hands or arms, pulling with hands or arms, typing or keyboarding, fine motor control, use of both hands, use of both arms, lifting 1-5 pounds, lifting 5-10 pounds, lifting 10-20 pounds, lifting 20-30 pounds, carrying 1-5 pounds, carrying 5-10 pounds, carrying 10-20 pounds, carrying 20-30 pounds, working alone, working overtime or irregular schedule, domestic/foreign travel, operation of motor vehicles, work near electrical power supplies, work near sources of ionizing radiation, work near sources of non-ionizing radiation, work near machinery with moving parts, toxic chemicals, irritant chemicals, fumes, safety glasses or eye protection, face shield or facial protection, gloves or hand protection, safety shoes or protective foot gear, hood use. Work Location: The work location for this position is fully 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: While the posted salary range for this position is broad, it is highly unusual for selected applicants to be hired at the top end of the range and more common for selected candidates to grown into the full salary band over time. Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of 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 maternity and parental leave • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually) • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO) • 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. Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements. Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation or preference, 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 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 1-505-665-4444 option 1.
See More Details >>What You Will Do The successful candidate will operate manual and CNC mills and lathes in the safe manufacturing of high explosive (HE) components under the mentoring of a senior machinist and HE handler. the successful candidate will work independently in the machining of HE components and assemblies. They will contribute significantly to programming, tooling and fixturing specifications as part of the process development activities. They will develop and create new techniques to successfully machine high explosives, they will aid and review other lower-level machinists work procedures and processes, documenting work performed, as well as training and mentoring others. What You Need Minimum Job Requirements: • Ability to follow guidelines for working safely in an industrial manufacturing environment • Advanced knowledge of applied shop mathematics • Proven understanding of machining processes, tools, and operations to obtain various tolerances • Advanced knowledge of applied material properties • Expert knowledge and ability to read and interpret engineering drawings • Proven ability to setup and operate manual equipment, CNC equipment, hand tools and supporting shop equipment with little to no supervision • Master ability to create CAD/CAM files (such as Camworks, MasterCam, etc.) and/or G&M code • Master ability to perform precision measurements • Experience machining high explosive materials • HE handling experience • Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as part of a team • Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which normally requires US citizenship • Experience with 5-axis CNC machining • Proven ability to manufacture complex parts made from difficult materials with exacting tolerances • Ability to develop new procedures and protocols to meet mission needs • Ability to review designs and advise on part manufacturability, cost and schedule • Ability to train and mentor others • Experience with Mastercam Education/Experience: Position requires an Associate's Degree (AAS) in Machining Technologies or equivalent precision metalworking program and 10 years of experience; OR, 12 years prototype experience; OR, Journeyperson qualification program and 10 years of experience. Desired Qualifications: • Experience with Fanuc controllers • Experience with Haas controllers • Experience with Bridgeport and Clausing machines Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): • Vision, Speech, and Hearing: Peripheral vision, Depth perception, Reading vision, Distance vision, Ability to speak, Ability to discriminate speech, Ability to hear in a normal range (500 to 3000 htz) • General Physical Mobility: Standing, Walking, Bending, Crouching, Twisting the trunk or back, Balancing • Specific Physical Mobility: Reaching overhead, Reaching horizontally, Reaching down, Applying torque, with hands or arms, Gripping with the hands, Pressing with hands or arms, Pushing with hands or arms, Pulling with hands or arms, Typing or keyboarding • Fine motor control: Use of both hands, Use of both arms, Use of both legs, Use of both feet • Weight Handling Requirements: Carrying 30+ pounds, Lifting 30+ pounds 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: • The selected candidate is required to work on-site. • Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of 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 Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements. 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 applicable 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 a disability accommodation, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505) 664-6947, opt. 3.
See More Details >>What You Will Do This position will be filled at either the Machinist 2 or 3 level, depending on the skills and experience of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level. The Explosive Applications and Special Projects Group (M-6) within Dynamic Experiments Division (M) conducts physics research on the initiation of energetic materials through mechanical, thermal, and electromagnetic mechanisms. Areas of study include high-explosive-driven pulsed power, non-shock initiation of high explosives, characterization of special energetic materials, and special security projects in service to the Laboratory and nation. We are seeking a qualified Machinist to contribute to the fabrication and assembly of a wide variety of parts and equipment used in experimental work. Machinist 2 ($53,700 - $82,500) The successful candidate will primarily be responsible to work in the group's two staff machine shops. Assignments are usually focused while working within established priorities, procedures, processes, requirements or specifications. Deliverables are typically a discrete portion of a total design or research project and require guided technical direction and innovative but practical solutions. Day to day aspects of the job are performed under direct supervision, but independent judgment and personal accountability are essential to the role. The Machinist 2 will operate hand tools, set up and operate manual and CNC mills and lathes, create CAD/CAM files, manufacture semi-complex parts and components of standard materials, and measure and inspect finished products, all under the mentoring and supervision of a senior machinist. Machinist 3 ($64,700 - $101,400) In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, the Machinist 3 will perform the majority of assignments independently, with minimal need for supervision or oversight. They will also manufacture complex parts made from difficult materials with exacting tolerances; contribute to programming, tooling and fixturing specifications as part of the process development activities; and work with external vendors and machine shops to procure supplies, parts and equipment. This position will mentor and supervise staff on use of select tools and machines. What You Need Minimum Job Requirements: Technical Knowledge: Experience using hand tools and setting up and operating manual and CNC equipment. Ability to use manual inspection equipment like calipers, micrometers and height gauges to perform precision measurements and standard part inspections. Experience creating CAD/CAM files. Demonstrated ability to read and apply engineering drawings and blueprints to meet customer requirements in machining processes. Ability to manufacture semi-complex parts made from typical materials. Foundational knowledge of material properties and shop mathematics. Communication: Ability to communicate effectively to understand the necessary requirements of assigned tasks and then perform those tasks in a safe and secure manner. Additional Job Requirements for Machinist 3: In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires: Technical Knowledge: Fully proficient in the independent setup and operation of manual and CNC mills and lathes. Ability to program CNC machines utilizing conversational or CAM software. Fully proficient knowledge and ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and then develop the necessary machining processes to complete a part from stock materials. Intermediate knowledge of tooling and fixturing methods supporting machining processes. Communication: The ability to collaborate effectively with other machinists, technicians, engineers, and experimentalists is essential to develop appropriate solutions to machining challenges. Must be able to give appropriate attention to detail when determining requirements, expectations, and final product suitability and quality. Education/Experience at lower level: Position requires an Associate's Degree (AAS) in Machining Technologies or equivalent precision metalworking program and 2 years of related experience; OR, 4 years prototype experience; OR, Journeyperson qualification program and 2 years of related experience. Education/Experience at higher level: Position requires an Associate's Degree (AAS) in Machining Technologies or equivalent precision metalworking program and 4 year's related experience; OR, 6 year's prototype experience; OR, Journeyperson qualification program and 4 years of experience. Desired Qualifications: • Familiarity following Laboratory policies and procedures related to safety and security • A working knowledge of integrated work documents and standard operating procedures • Experience with SolidWorks/CAMWorks software • Experience with Haas and Accu-Rite MillPWR G2 controls • Forklift and overhead crane experience • Experience working with external vendors and machine shops to procure supplies, parts and equipment • Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills • Experience mentoring, supervising, or serving in a leadership role • Active DOE Q clearance Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): Color discrimination, peripheral vision, depth perception, binocular vision, reading vision, distance vision; ability to speak, ability to discriminate speech, ability to smell, ability to hear in a normal range (500-3000 Hz); sitting, standing, walking, climbing stairs, climbing ladders, bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, twisting the trunk or back, balancing, reaching overhead, reaching horizontally, reaching down; applying torque with hands or arms, gripping with the hand, pressing with hands or arms, pushing with hands or arms, pulling with hands or arms, fine motor control, use of both hands, use of both arms, use of both legs, use of both feet, lifting 50+ pounds, carrying 50+ pounds. Work Environment: Outdoors, exposure to wildlife, in a hot or cold environment 5-100 °F, in a wet or humid environment, in a noisy environment, under unusual lighting conditions; near sources of ionizing radiation, near sources of non-ionizing radiation, with weapons or explosives, with vibrating equipment/machinery, near machinery with moving parts, toxic chemicals, irritant chemicals, dusts or powders, fumes, carcinogens; wearing face shield or facial protection, wearing mask or respirator, use of hearing protection, wearing gloves or hand protection, wearing safety shoes or protective footgear; operation of motor vehicles, operation of specialized heavy equipment; working alone, working overtime or irregular schedule, domestic and international travel possible. 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, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of 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. Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements. 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 opt. 3.
See More Details >>Entering the machining trade in Los Alamos, NM, typically begins with an apprenticeship, blending hands-on experience with classroom instruction, enabling individuals to earn while they learn. Apprenticeships last about four to five years, requiring extensive training under experienced professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are approximately 288,789 machinists nationwide, with a median annual wage of $50,840. In Los Alamos, NM, machinists earn an average of $1064 per week, with experienced professionals often exceeding $1,100 per week. Trade schools, technical institutions, and platforms like Gild help aspiring machinists find apprenticeship opportunities, leading to a career with strong earning potential.
