Chemical Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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.

We have an opening for a Chemical Process Engineer to support a multi-disciplinary team in the design, development and implementation of new and improved chemical processes for cleaning, coating, and treating laser optics for the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and other laser projects in the NIF & Photon Science Directorate, and may include sol gel or hard dielectric coatings, photolithography, optic cladding and surface figuring processes. The position is in the Optical Materials Group within the Materials for Emerging Applications and Extreme Conditions section of the Materials Science Division in the Physical and Life Sciences Directorate.

This position will be filled at either the SES.2 or SES.3 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 may offer a hybrid schedule, which includes the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week, after a probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule, including the exact number of days required in the office and virtual work options may vary based on the needs of the team and the organization. 

You will

• Analyze moderately complex to complex data from optics production operations with the goal of improving the process and process yields.
• Develop numerical models to analyze various kinetic and or transport phenomena associated with the various optic production and cleaning processes.
• Direct technicians to design, build or modify specialized process equipment.
• Define and prepare operating procedures, train technicians, and maintain operational status of these production processes and laboratory safety standards.
• Prepare written analyses and verbal briefings that capture and communicate research results as well as periodic progress reports.
• Serve as a key team member in operation of the optics production facilities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the SES.3 level 

• Independently conduct advanced research and development in the area of laser optical materials.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences, seminars and/or technical meetings.

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• BS in Chemical Engineering, or related field or the equivalent combination of education and previous relevant experience.
• Broad knowledge of transport phenomena and chemical kinetics in chemical process systems.
• Broad experience in pilot-plant-scale operations and process development.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills necessary to communicate effectively with technical support personnel on requirements, design, safety, construction or modification of process or pilot-scale equipment or systems.
• Experience operating PC and/or Macintosh computers to collect, analyze, and document scientific results.
• Interpersonal skills necessary to work in a collaborative research environment and interact with a diverse set of scientists, engineers, technicians and other technical and administrative staff.

Additional qualifications at the SES.3 level

• PhD in Chemical Engineering or related field or the equivalent combination of education and previous relevant experience.
• Significant experience applying chemical engineering principles to achieve process development and process improvement goals.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment and present and explain technical information and provide advice to management.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience developing, specifying, and commissioning process controls and automation for wet chemical processes.
• General familiarity with the physics and chemistry of thin films properties and manufacturing processes.

Pay Range

$146,340 - $185,544 Annually for the SES.2 level 

$175,530 - $222,564 Annually for the SES.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.

#LI-Hybrid

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 https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values

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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To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf

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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. 

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