Target Fabrication and Materials Characterization Technologist

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 Laboratory Technologist to support target fabrication, precision component assembly, metallography, sample preparation, and microscopy within the Materials Science Division's (MSD) Materials Characterization Center (MCC). You will perform a range of moderate to complex work in support of multiple LLNL programs and principal investigators, including activities in the National Ignition Facility (NIF) HiZ Target Fabrication Laboratory.

The work includes fabrication, metrology, characterization, and assembly of macro- to micro-scale precision engineered components and one-of-a-kind samples. Responsibilities include operation of computer-controlled and manually operated assembly stations, dimensional inspection using microscopes and optical coordinate measuring machines, preparation and installation of thin films into components or subassemblies, and execution of multi-step target subassembly and base assembly procedures. The role will also involve work with hazardous materials, including radioactive materials and beryllium, performed within containment enclosures such as inert-atmosphere gloveboxes and fume hoods. The position supports timely delivery of high-quality results, clear documentation, and strong customer engagement within a collaborative R&D environment.

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

This position will be filled at either the 504.2 or 504.3 level depending on your qualifications. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if you are selected at the higher level.

You will

• Perform moderately complex to complex target fabrication, precision assembly, metallography, and materials characterization activities, including sample preparation, polishing, and optical microscopy.
• Utilize microscopes and optical coordinate measuring machines to perform dimensional inspection and metrology of precision components
• Operate computer-controlled and manually operated assembly stations and other laboratory instrumentation.
• Prepare, assemble, and analyze one-of-a-kind samples and components, including hazardous materials such as beryllium and radioactive materials, while following detailed instructions, drawings, and specifications.
• Interact effectively with resident staff and other engineering, scientific, technical, and administrative personnel from a variety of organizations.
• Maintain a high level of administrative and on-the-job training required for work in hazardous environments, cleanroom settings, and with hazardous materials.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities at the 504.3 Level

• Provide advanced troubleshooting skills and independently identify complex technical problems and implement solutions.
• Create safety documents, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and other documentation, including test reports.
• Acquire, analyze and may interpret moderately complex data.

Qualifications

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship
• Associate degree in Chemistry, Materials, Electronics, Engineering or related field; or equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Experience in materials science, sample preparation, target fabrication, precision engineering fabrication, metrology, or related laboratory functions.
• Broad understanding of materials science and/or materials engineering concepts, including sample preparation, polishing techniques, and optical microscopy.
• Experience with precision engineering materials fabrication, metrology, and assembly of precision components.
• Experience operating computers, instrumentation, assembly stations, microscopes, and metrology equipment to collect, analyze, and document scientific results.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to write and record precise information and interact effectively in a collaborative R&D environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to read and understand detailed instructions, drawings, specifications, and analytical ability to diagnose and correct operational problems in equipment and tests.

Additional qualifications at the 504.3 level

• Advanced specialized technical expertise in one or more areas of chemistry, materials science, engineering, or microfabrication.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex microfabrication problems.
• Significant experience with advanced analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills to develop creative solutions to complex problems.
• Advanced administrative and organizational skills include the use of computers and software such as MS-Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and similar applications.

Qualifications we desire

• Experience working with hazardous materials, and ability and willingness to work with complex conditions involving gloveboxes, cryogens, or radioactive materials.
• Experience with additional materials preparation and characterization tools such hardness testing, electropolishing, ion milling, vacuum coating, white-light interferometry, and density measurements.
• Experience with instrument maintenance and design and fabrication of simple fixtures
• Experience with scanning electron microscopy techniques, including hands-on SEM operation

Pay Range

$43.55 - $63.97 Hourly

$43.55 - $53.36 Hourly for the 504.2 level


$52.23 - $63.97 Hourly for the 504.3 level


This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Position Information

This is a Flexible Term appointment, which is for a definite period not to exceed six years. If final candidate is a Career Indefinite employee, Career Indefinite status may be maintained (should funding allow).

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026 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

Security Clearance

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance. If you are selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also, 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), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your 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, which 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.

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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.

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