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Big Science Sweden

$80 - $120/hr

PETRA IV, the most brilliant synchrotron radiation source of the next generation, will be the ultimate 4D X-ray microscope, setting new standards in precision and performance. About your role * FPGA ...

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How much do synchrotron radiation jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average weekly pay for synchrotron radiation in the United States is $2,016.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,471.15 and $2,480.77 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is synchrotron radiation?

Synchrotron radiation refers to the intense, highly focused beams of light produced when charged particles, such as electrons, are accelerated at near-light speeds in a synchrotron facility. Professionals working with synchrotron radiation operate and maintain these large-scale research facilities, develop experiments, and assist scientists in using the radiation for advanced research in fields like materials science, biology, chemistry, and physics. Their work enables groundbreaking discoveries by allowing the study of matter at the atomic and molecular level.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working with synchrotron radiation facilities?

Professionals working with synchrotron radiation facilities often encounter challenges such as mastering complex instrumentation, managing time-sensitive experiments, and ensuring the safe handling of high-energy radiation. Collaboration is key, as experiments typically require coordination with multidisciplinary teams, including scientists, engineers, and facility staff. Additionally, adapting to rapidly advancing technologies and maintaining precise data quality can be demanding, but these challenges also provide valuable opportunities for skill development and career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a synchrotron radiation scientist?

To thrive as a Synchrotron Radiation Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, chemistry, or materials science, typically with a PhD or equivalent research experience. Expertise with synchrotron beamline instrumentation, data acquisition software, and analytical tools such as X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy is essential. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you work effectively within multidisciplinary teams and convey complex findings. These competencies are vital for advancing research, optimizing experimental setups, and contributing to scientific innovation using synchrotron facilities.

What is the difference between Synchrotron Radiation vs Beamline Scientist?

AspectSynchrotron RadiationBeamline Scientist
CredentialsPhysics or engineering degree, specialized training in synchrotron facilitiesPhysics, chemistry, or related degree, often with synchrotron experience
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, particle accelerators, large-scale labsSynchrotron beamlines, research labs, collaborative projects
Industry UsageUsed as a radiation source for experimentsOperates and manages experiments using synchrotron radiation

Synchrotron Radiation refers to the electromagnetic radiation emitted when charged particles are accelerated in a synchrotron. A Beamline Scientist, on the other hand, is a professional who manages experiments and instrumentation at synchrotron beamlines. While both roles require knowledge of synchrotron technology, Synchrotron Radiation is a physical phenomenon, whereas Beamline Scientists are operational experts working with that radiation to conduct research.

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Synchrotron Radiation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Synchrotron Radiation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,845 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Staff Engineer 3 - Mechanical Design, SSRL

Menlo Park, CA • On-site

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about SLAC National Accelerator Laboratoryexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
The Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL) directorate of SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is a national user facility providing synchrotron radiation for research in biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, material science, medicine, and physics. SSRL operates and maintains the 3GeV electron storage ring SPEAR3, the associated injector facility, and synchrotron radiation beam lines on SPEAR3. The SSRL Beam Line Systems (BLS) division designs, constructs, and commissions new synchrotron radiation beam lines and retrofits existing beam lines for new capabilities or improved performance.
The SSRL Beam Line Development (BLD) group works with scientists and other engineers in the design of synchrotron radiation instrumentation and optics. Components of x-ray beam lines range in complexity from simple mechanical supports to intricate optical assemblies providing precise manipulation of optical elements subject to high thermal loads in ultra-high vacuum.
Your specific responsibilities include:
  • Demonstrate design innovation and extensive technical knowledge in developing advanced solutions that address the evolving needs of the beamline user community.
  • Lead component design and development activities, including concept generation, engineering analysis, 3D CAD modeling, material selection, application of engineering standards, GD&T/tolerancing, detailed drawings, vendor coordination, procurement support, and preparation of technical documentation in accordance with SSRL standards.
  • Oversee the full engineering lifecycle of advanced optical components from initial concept through design, fabrication, testing, and field installation. Collaborate closely with physicists and scientists to define system requirements and work with mechanical technicians to ensure accurate assembly and successful installation.
  • Provide project management leadership, conduct formal design reviews, and support system commissioning and validation following installation.

To be successful in this position you will bring:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Design, with at least 4 years of professional experience in mechanical design using CAD platforms.
  • Strong knowledge of mechanical fabrication methods, precision engineering practices, kinematic design principles, and ANSI drafting standards.
  • Proficiency with parametric CAD software and experience working within a Windows-based computing environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop innovative design concepts, supported by strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving capabilities.
  • Solid understanding of heat transfer fundamentals, thermal stress analysis, and structural analysis principles.
  • Experience setting up and utilizing Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools to perform thermal and structural simulations as required.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with physicists, scientists, engineers, and technical staff.

In addition, preferred requirements include:
  • Master's or PhD degree, or equivalent experience, in Mechanical Engineering, with a minimum of two years of experience using Solid Edge or comparable CAD software.
  • Strong understanding of precision mechanism design and vacuum-compatible engineering practices.
  • Familiarity with optical systems and beamline components such as monochromators, mirrors, slits, collimators, and related instrumentation.
  • Working knowledge of ultra-high vacuum (UHV) system design principles and applications.
  • Experience using precision metrology and inspection equipment, including coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), FARO arms, calipers, and dial indicators.

SLAC Employee Competencies:
  • Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
  • Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
  • Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
  • Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
  • Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
  • Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
  • Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.

Physical requirements and working conditions:
  • Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.

Work Standards:
  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1General Policy and Responsibilities: http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch01.pdf
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu
  • As a national laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

  • Classification Title: Staff Engineer 3
  • Grade: L Job Code: 0133
  • Duration: Regular continuing

The expected pay range for this position is $167,740- $203,787 per annum. SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs.
At SLAC/Stanford, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package.

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