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Nrel Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Nrel

Adversarial Cybersecurity Researcher

Golden, CO · Hybrid

Posting Title Adversarial Cybersecurity Researcher . Location CO - Golden . Position Type Regular . Hours Per Week 40 . Working at NLR NLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden ...

Nrel

Emergency Communications Specialist

Golden, CO

$55K - $73K/yr

Posting Title Emergency Communications Specialist . Location CO - Golden . Position Type Regular . Hours Per Week 40 . Working at NLR NLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden ...

Nrel

Cybersecurity Engineering I/II

Golden, CO

Posting Title Cybersecurity Engineering I/II . Location CO - Golden . Position Type Regular . Hours Per Week 40 . Working at NLR NLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsNrel JobsNrel Jobs in Colorado

Nrel information

See Colorado salary details

$56.3K

$96.9K

$128.8K

How much do nrel jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for nrel in Colorado is $96,877.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,100.00 and $108,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest-paying job in renewable energy?

In renewable energy, senior engineering roles such as renewable energy project managers or chief engineers tend to be the highest-paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles typically require advanced technical skills, industry experience, and sometimes professional certifications like PE or PMP.

What is NREL and what do employees at NREL do?

NREL stands for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, which is a leading U.S. government research facility dedicated to advancing renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. Employees at NREL work on cutting-edge research and development projects related to solar, wind, bioenergy, energy storage, and grid integration, among other topics. Their work supports the transition to clean energy solutions and helps shape national energy policies and industry practices.

Is it hard to get a job at NREL?

Getting a job at NREL can be competitive, as it is a well-regarded research organization with strict hiring standards. Candidates typically need relevant education, experience in renewable energy or related fields, and strong technical skills. The application process often involves multiple interviews and background checks.

What is the difference between Nrel vs Renewable Energy Analyst?

AspectNrelRenewable Energy Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, environmental science, or related fieldsRequires a degree in environmental science, engineering, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, renewable energy projectsConsulting firms, energy companies, government agencies
Industry UsagePrimarily a research and development organization in renewable energyAnalyzes renewable energy projects, policy, and market trends

Both roles focus on renewable energy, with Nrel primarily involved in research and development, while Renewable Energy Analysts focus on market analysis, project evaluation, and policy advising within the renewable energy sector.

What are common challenges researchers face when working at NREL, and how can they overcome them?

Researchers at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) often work on cutting-edge projects that require interdisciplinary collaboration and rapid adaptation to new technologies. One common challenge is balancing project deadlines with the iterative nature of scientific research. To overcome this, team members are encouraged to communicate openly, leverage the diverse expertise of colleagues, and utilize NREL’s robust project management tools. Additionally, staying up to date with industry trends and regularly participating in internal seminars can help researchers navigate the fast-paced, innovative environment.

What is NREL now called?

NREL stands for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, which is a research facility focused on renewable energy and energy efficiency. It is not a job title but an organization; if referring to a job at NREL, it involves roles in scientific research, engineering, and technical support related to renewable energy projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an NREL researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a researcher at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), you generally need a strong background in science or engineering, typically supported by an advanced degree in fields such as renewable energy, materials science, or environmental engineering. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and renewable energy modeling tools is often required, along with relevant certifications or technical training. Strong problem-solving skills, collaboration, and effective communication help researchers contribute innovative solutions and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for advancing cutting-edge renewable energy research and supporting NREL’s mission to transform energy systems.

Is NREL laying off employees?

There are no publicly available reports indicating that NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory) is currently laying off employees. As a government research lab, NREL's staffing levels tend to be stable, though layoffs can occur due to budget changes or organizational restructuring. Job seekers should monitor official NREL communications or government notices for the most accurate updates.
What are popular job titles related to Nrel jobs in Colorado? For Nrel jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nrel jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Nrel jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Nrel jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Nrel job openings:
Nrel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nrel job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,877 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Alternate Special Security Officer - National Security Research Oversight Office

Nrel

Golden, CO

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Posting TitleAlternate Special Security Officer - National Security Research Oversight Office

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LocationCO - Golden

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Position TypeRegular

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Hours Per Week40

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Working at NLRNLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado is the nation's primary laboratory for energy systems research and development.

Join the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), where world-class scientists, engineers, and experts are accelerating energy innovation through breakthrough research and systems integration. From our mission to our collaborative culture, NLR stands out in the research community for its commitment to an affordable and secure energy future. Spanning foundational science to applied systems engineering and analysis, we focus on solving complex challenges to deliver advanced, secure, reliable, and cost-effective energy solutions. Our work helps strengthen U.S. industries, support job creation, and promote national economic growth.

At NLR, you'll find a mission-driven environment supported by state-of-the-art facilities, multidisciplinary research teams, and strong collaborations with industry, academia, and other national laboratories. We offer robust professional development opportunities, and a competitive benefits package designed to support your career and well-being.

Job Description

The National Security Research OversightOffice(NSRO) enables and overseesthe National Laboratory of the Rockies'(NLR)portfolio of national security workin accordance withthe U.S Department of Energy and other governmental agencyrequirements.

NLRis activelyseekinganindividualexperiencedin special security operationsto join the NSROas an Alternate Special Security Officer. This position will report to the NSRO Director, supporting the Special Security Officer (SSO). The positionrequires a self-motivated professional capable of managing and administering security programs for classified and proprietary operations. You will also initially serve as a Site Security Manager (SSM). As the SSM, you will lead on-site security operations supporting the construction of a SCIF. You will act as the primary liaison between customers, construction teams, and security personnel to ensure strict compliance with ICD 705 requirements, Construction Security Plans (CSPs) and design standards. Upon completion of the project, you will assume the responsibilities of an ASSO supporting secure facilities across the site. In collaboration with theSSOandcolleagues in NLR'sOffice of Laboratory Protection (OLP), you willsupportday-to-day security operations for NSRO, ensuring compliance with all applicable government regulations and policies.

The selected applicant will support the NSRO andbroader national security research team through responsibilities including:

  • Serve as the primary on-site authority for all construction security operations and construction site access controls.
  • Supervise, train and coordinate daily activities of Construction Surveillance Technicians (CSTs) and Access Control Specialists.
  • Review construction drawings, blueprints, and project documentation to verify adherence to approved security requirements.
  • Oversee site audits and ensure all required documentation is properly maintained.

  • Serve asapoint of contact for SCIFs, andrelatedNSRO responsibilities. Provide training and oversight to personnel to ensure adherence to security protocols.

  • Establish andmaintainliaison with government agencies, external customers, NREL managers, employees, and contractors ensure compliance with National Policy.

  • Collaborate with OLP to design, implement, and refine security programs, policies, and procedures for safeguarding classified and proprietary materials.

  • Act as a security specialist for SCIF-related activities including document control, physical security (PHYSEC), information assurance (IA), personnel security (PERSEC), operational security (OPSEC), and communicationssecurity (COMSEC).

  • In coordination with OLP draft andmaintainStandard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Emergency Action Plans for SCIFs.

  • Support investigation ofsecurity violations, prepare reports,and recommend preventative and corrective measures.

  • Oversee the receipt, processing, distribution, and tracking of classified documentationin physical and electronic forms asrequiredbypolicy.

  • Implement and manage visitor control procedures in compliance with local and national security policy.

  • Work closely with DOE/IN, DOE, OLP andNLRResearch Operations to ensure collaboration and consistency with NSROpolicy in addition to supporting emerging operational needs, including new facility development.

  • Work closely with Research Operations to integrate established NSRO policies and procedures with operations, and to support requirements for new facilities and capabilities.

  • Evaluate complex SCI risks and developappropriatemitigations.

  • Significant experiencetraining and mentoring teams unfamiliar with secure operations and policies.

  • Demonstrated ability to write clear and concise policies, training documents, investigative/formal reports, and operational documents.

  • Background and knowledge related to SCI regulations, facilities, and SCI control systems.

  • Knowledge of SCIF construction requirements.

  • Exceptional organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage concurrent priorities.

  • Strong analytical skills; customer service experience; and the ability to interpret, communicate, and implement complex instructions.

  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.

  • PreviousCOMSEC experience.

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Basic QualificationsRelevant Bachelor's Degree and 9 or more years of experience or equivalent relevant education/experience. Or, relevant Master's Degree and 7 or more years of experience or equivalent relevant education/experience. Or, relevant PhD and 4 or more years of experience or equivalent relevant education/experience. Or, relevant JD and 4 or more years of experience or equivalent relevant education/experience. Applies extensive technical expertise, and has full knowledge of other related disciplines. Contributes to the development of new concepts, techniques and standards. Considered internal subject matter expert. Extensive knowledge of laws, regulations, principles, procedures and practices related to specific field. Excellent leadership, project management and problem solving skills. Ability to use various computer software programs.

* Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.

Additional Required Qualifications

  • Must hold an active DOE Q, DOETS, or other agency TSsecurity clearance with the ability to obtain SCI access. SCI access may require a polygraph examination.Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship isrequiredexcept invery limitedcircumstances. SeeDOE O 472.2Aforadditionalinformation.

  • Ability to pass periodic full-scope polygraph tests.

  • Minimum of 6 years of experience as an SSO/CSSO in DOE, DoD, or other federal agency with oversight of sensitive security operations.

  • Knowledgeof security regulations, including 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM Rule), Executive Orders 12333 and 13526, and Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs) such as the 700 series.

  • Broadexpertisein security disciplines, including personnel security, physical security, technical security, COMSEC, and OPSEC.

  • Ability to work collaboratively withNLRmanagers,staffand other partners to form enterprise-level active security strategies, bestpracticesand policies.

  • Experience working in a dynamic environment with shifting priorities.

  • Willingness to travel (up to 10%) during programming and construction of SCIF facilities and for refinement of policies and procedures.

  • Ability to respond to after-hours alarms within requiredtimeframes.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Significant experience training and mentoring teams unfamiliar with secure operations and policies.
  • Direct experience in the design and construction of new SCIFs.
  • Demonstrated ability to write clear and concise policies, training documents, investigative/formal reports, and operational documents.
  • Background and knowledge related to SCI regulations, facilities, and SCI control systems.
  • Knowledge of SCIF construction requirements.
  • Exceptional organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage concurrent priorities.
  • Strong analytical skills; customer service experience; and the ability to interpret, communicate, and implement complex instructions.
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
  • Previous COMSEC experience.

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Job Application Submission Window

The anticipated closing window for application submission is up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.

Annual Salary Range (based on full-time 40 hours per week)Job Profile: Professional IV / Annual Salary Range: $100,400 - $180,700

NLR takes into consideration a candidate's education, training, and experience, expected quality and quantity of work, required travel (if any), external market and internal value, including seniority and merit systems, and internal pay alignment when determining the salary level for potential new employees. In compliance with the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, a potential new employee's salary history will not be used in compensation decisions.

Benefits SummaryBenefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; short*- and long-term disability insurance; pension benefits*; 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match*; life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance; personal time off (PTO) and sick leave; paid holidays; and tuition reimbursement*. NLR employees may be eligible for, but are not guaranteed, performance-, merit-, and achievement- based awards that include a monetary component. Some positions may be eligible for relocation expense reimbursement. Limited-term positions are not eligible for long-term disability or tuition reimbursement.

* Based on eligibility rules

Badging RequirementNLR is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as required by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12), which includes a favorable background investigation.Drug Free Workplace

NLR is committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace in accordance with the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug.

If you are offered employment at NLR, you must pass a pre-employment drug test prior to commencing employment. Unless prohibited by state or local law, the pre-employment drug test will include marijuana. If you test positive on the pre-employment drug test, your offer of employment may be withdrawn.

Submission Guidelines

Please note that in order to be considered an applicant for any position at NLR you must submit an application form for each position for which you believe you are qualified. Applications are not kept on file for future positions. Please include a cover letter and resume with each position application.

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Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard basis of age (40 and over), color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, national origin/ancestry, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, and any other applicable status protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Reasonable Accommodations

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