1

Control Particle Accelerator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Physics, or related field. * 5+ years of experience in control system design for fusion energy, particle accelerators, large ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

The CCS group produces particle accelerators used to make isotopes relevant to PET imaging and ... Develop industrial control applications in C on real-time OS (Linux, VxWorks). * Implement designs ...

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Physics, or related field. * 5+ years of experience in control system design for fusion energy, particle accelerators, large ...

What your day-to-day as a Control System Hardware Engineer at Fermilab will look like: * Analyze ... Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

Control Particle Accelerator information

See salary details

$11

$21

$33

How much do control particle accelerator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for control particle accelerator in the United States is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals operating a particle accelerator, and how are they typically addressed?

Operating a particle accelerator involves maintaining precise control over highly technical equipment and ensuring strict safety protocols are followed. Common challenges include troubleshooting unexpected equipment malfunctions, addressing fluctuations in beam stability, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams to implement experiments. To address these, operators often rely on real-time monitoring systems, regular maintenance schedules, and close collaboration with engineers, physicists, and safety personnel. Continuous training and clear communication within the team are key to efficiently resolving issues and maintaining smooth accelerator operation.

What are Control Particle Accelerator operators?

Control Particle Accelerator operators are specialized technicians or engineers responsible for operating and monitoring particle accelerators—machines that propel charged particles to high speeds for scientific research, medical, or industrial applications. Their duties include setting up experiments, adjusting accelerator parameters, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They work closely with physicists and other scientists to achieve precise experimental outcomes and maintain the smooth operation of complex machinery. These professionals require a strong background in physics, engineering, or a related field, as well as hands-on technical skills.

What is the difference between Control Particle Accelerator vs Control Systems Technician?

AspectControl Particle AcceleratorControl Systems Technician
Required CredentialsPhysics or engineering degree, specialized training in acceleratorsTechnical diploma or associate degree in electronics or automation
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, large scientific facilitiesIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, particle physics labsManufacturing, automation companies
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Control Particle Accelerator role focuses on operating and maintaining complex accelerator systems in research environments, requiring specialized physics or engineering knowledge. In contrast, Control Systems Technicians work on industrial automation and control systems across various industries. While both roles involve control systems, the Control Particle Accelerator position is more specialized and research-oriented, whereas Control Systems Technicians are more broadly employed in manufacturing and automation sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Control Particle Accelerator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Particle Accelerator Operator, you need a strong background in physics, engineering, or a related technical field, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or specialized training. Familiarity with accelerator control systems, vacuum technology, and safety protocols, as well as experience using data acquisition and monitoring software, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are key soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and precise operation of complex equipment crucial for scientific research and experimentation.
Infographic showing various Control Particle Accelerator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Full Time, 80% Part Time, 16% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 68% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 31% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,668 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate

$97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

What You Will Do
The Applied Electrodynamics Group (AOT-AE) at Los Alamos National Laboratory is looking to hire one or more Postdoctoral Research Associates in accelerator science. Exceptional candidates will be eligible for nomination for the Director's Postdoctoral Fellowship.
The AOT-AE group is situated at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) accelerator site in Los Alamos, NM. AOT-AE performs accelerator research, design, and commissioning, and provides support for numerous accelerator projects. These projects include LANSCE accelerator operations and upgrade, SCORPIUS/ECSE, development of compact accelerators for global security and space applications, and local accelerator test stands for research and development. The group performs research on cutting edge accelerator technology, which includes ion and electron sources, photocathodes, radio-frequency structures, and novel particle beam transport schemes. The successful applicant will contribute to one or more of these projects. Applicants with very strong skills in related fields of science and engineering may be considered, as training opportunities in accelerator science are available, both on the job, and through the US Particle Accelerator School.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Either (1) practical experience assembling hardware, operating complex experiments, recording and analyzing experimental data, and interpreting results, or (2) strong simulation and design experience, including comparison of results with experimental data.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with the principles of electrodynamics and graduate level mechanics.
  • Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Education/Experience: Position requires a Ph.D. in accelerator science, physics, electrical engineering or a related field.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated experience assembling, operating, and trouble-shooting accelerators, RF systems, electron or ion sources, and accelerator diagnostics.
  • Demonstrated experience designing, installing, and commissioning accelerators and accelerator components.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with hazards of accelerator R&D and operations.
  • Experience with CAD packages, such as Solidworks.
  • Experience with RF component simulation using software such as CST Studio, Comsol, Ansys HFSS, or similar tools.
  • Experience with beam dynamics simulation codes such as Elegant, Parmela/Parmila, GPT, or similar tools.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with data analysis tools and controls software such as Matlab, Python, Labview, or IDL.
  • Excellent publication record.
  • Ability to obtain a Q clearance, which normally requires U.S. citizenship.

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.
Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation): Reading vision, ability to speak, ability to discriminate speech, climbing stairs, climbing ladders, typing or keyboarding, fine motor control.
Work Environment: work is mostly performed in indoor laboratory or office environments. Some work may be required in the accelerator tunnels with low levels or radiation (no significant confined space exposure), and potential electric hazard.
Salary: Competitive salaries are based on the date the PhD degree requirements were completed or the degree was awarded. Starting salary for a new graduate is currently $97,000. For more information go to Postdoc Program website at https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php .
Note to Applicants: Please attach a detailed cover letter that addresses all the minimum and desired qualifications of this position.
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 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.
Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.
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.
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.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
  • Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.
  • Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
  • Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated

Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
  • Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
  • From here, you will establish an account with username and password

How to Apply: How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
  • Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.

What Los Alamos National Laboratory employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom