Optical Microscopy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Company Description
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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.
Job Description
We have an opening for a Metallographer Tech/Sr. Tech (Mechanical Technologist/Senior Technologist) in the Materials and Non-Destructive Evaluation Section. You will support ongoing programmatic activities independently, and you will work with engineers, scientists, and technical staff to provide technical support for characterizing a wide variety of materials using optical microscopy, established surface preparation techniques, and measurement of microstructural features. Tasks may include, but are not limited to, sample preparation, digital optical microscopy, hardness testing, and other techniques for a variety of metal alloys and other materials. This position is in the Materials Engineering Division (MED) within the Engineering Directorate.
This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.
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

• Provide general technical support by applying fundamental knowledge of fabrication, assembly, installation, and system operation under general supervision.
• Work with chemicals (etchants, solvents, embedding resins), metallographic lab equipment (microscopes, precision saws, polishers), and various alloys.
• Use machine tools, power tools, and hand tools.
• Provide general technical support for sample preparation and sample analysis.
• Acquire and analyze data, and develop solutions and alternative approaches to moderately complex mechanical problems using creativity and judgment.
• Maintain system documentation and experimental records.
• Follow written operational and safety procedures.
• Perform all assignments in accordance with safety and security requirements and policies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the 533.3 level

• Provide advanced technical support by applying fundamental knowledge of fabrication, assembly, installation, and system operation under minimal supervision.
• Interact regularly and independently with project leads, scientists, engineers, and technical personnel.
• Identify, evaluate, and analyze requirements and processes.
• Solve complex mechanical and operational problems.

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Associate degree in engineering, mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing technology, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Experience with metallurgical sample preparation techniques, including mounting, sectioning, fine polishing, and etching.
• Experience making independent decisions regarding moderately complex technical problems.
• Demonstrated proficiency in written and verbal communication, and the interpersonal skills necessary to communicate effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to organize work, manage conflicting tasks, and interact effectively with team members.
• Experience with personal computers and associated software (Microsoft Office Suite).
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Additional qualifications at the 533.3 level

• Advanced knowledge of general manufacturing techniques.
• Significant experience operating and maintaining conventional and NC equipment.
• Experience with complex mechanical fabrication and assembly.

Qualifications We Desire

• Familiarity with advanced optical microscopy techniques, including polarized light, differential interference contrast, and confocal microscopy.
• Familiarity with image analysis techniques, including grain size determination and measurement methods for determining phase fractions.
• Knowledge of materials processing, including welding.

Pay Range
$43.55 - $63.97 Hourly
$43.55 - $53.36 Hourly for the 533.2 level
$52.23 - $63.97 Hourly for the 533.3 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
#LI-Onsite
Position Information
This is a Career Indefinite position, open to Lab employees and external candidates.
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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Videos To Watch
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