We have an opening for a Chemical Process Technician to work in the area of explosives formulation, processing, and handling. You will provide technical support to principal investigators and scientific and technical staff in explosives research and programmatic/experimental activities to address programmatic and research and development needs in energetic materials. This position is in the Energetic Materials Formulation and Testing Group within the Energetic Materials & Design (EMD) section of the Materials Science Division, supporting the Energetic Materials Center (EMC).
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.
You will
- Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technical personnel to provide general technical support to various programmatic tasks and explosives research efforts.
- Perform operations with chemistry processing systems including grinding, sieving, mixing, slurry coating, and hazardous waste management and fulfill duties such as room responsibilities for instruments and labs.
- Acquire and analyze basic data and report results on projects involving formulation and characterization of explosives.
- Conduct, coordinate, and document procedures and peer reviews.
- Perform work as an LLNL Explosives Handler, and routinely work hands-on with energetic materials of all types.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Additional job responsibilities, at the 504.3 level
- Provide advanced technical support to resolve technical and programmatic issues.
- Acquire, analyze and may interpret moderately complex data and provide solutions to complex technical problems.
- Plan and select methodology and procedures to attain desired goals in routine activities.
- Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.
- Associate degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or Environmental Technology (or equivalent combination of education and experience) with some related experience.
- Elementary understanding of chemistry and materials science with strong mechanical aptitude.
- Experience working with an experimental team and working effectively under conflicting and rigorous deadlines with general supervision.
- Demonstrated ability to conduct chemistry support activities with a broad range of experience in experimental support, techniques, and execution including knowledge of safety rules and procedures.
- Handling and knowledge of chemicals in laboratory settings.
- Willingness to work with explosives, which requires the ability to deal with hazards inherent in explosives research in a responsible and efficient manner.
- Developed organizational and interpersonal skills to work with experimental teams with members from all disciplines. Ability to work on multiple projects while meeting programmatic deadlines and to work in a collaborative research and development environment.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, to present results verbally and through written reports.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis in a safe and controlled manner, climb a ladder, and wear a respirator as needed.
Additional qualifications at the 504.3 level
- Associate degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or Environmental Technology or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
- Basic understanding of chemistry, material science, and engineering with advanced specialized technical expertise in one or a few areas.
- Advanced verbal and written communication skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment and present and explain technical information.
Qualifications We Desire
- Experience with explosive formulations, including grinding, sieving, mixing, and formulation and pressing of plastic bonded explosives.
- Knowledge of LLNL programs in energetic materials or LLNL ES&H rules and regulations.