Weekend Theoretical Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position will be filled at either the Health Physicist 1 (HP1) or Health Physicist 2 (HP2) level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. The operational HP is responsible for ensuring the implementation of the Radiation Protection (RP) program while supporting work execution. The candidate will perform operational health physics/radiation safety under the direction of experienced Health Physicist(s).

Health Physicist 1 – $96,600 to $158,000
Responsibilities include: investigating radiation hazards in the full range of RP assignments; developing and implementing metrics to measure the effectiveness of the operational RP program; evaluating and implementing administrative and engineering controls to protect personnel from radiological hazards; developing monitoring programs to measure buildup of radioactive materials; measuring integrity of radiological engineering controls; and ensuring RP concepts and policies are incorporated into laboratory designs to protect workers, the public, and the environment.

Health Physicist 2 – $106,400 to $176,000
In addition to the responsibilities of HP1, candidates will mentor junior health physicists and Radiation Control Technicians; evaluate work activities and ensure adequate radiological controls with minimal oversight; independently develop and review radiological work permits for technical accuracy; interface with facility operations managers and diverse trades to address worker concerns; and aid the RP manager in overseeing high‑risk radiological evolutions to ensure safe and compliant completion of work.

• Entry‑level knowledge of Health Physics principles, theories, concepts, and techniques.
• Interpret LANL and industry regulatory guidance to determine compliance.
• Provide radiological safety‑related support to programmatic and facilities missions.
• Act as a technical SME for operational health physics programs (e.g., air monitoring, radiological engineering controls, metrics).
• Entry‑level experience responding to radiological incidents and emergencies.
• Experience conducting research, investigating alternative solutions, and recommending solutions on problems affecting radiological safety/protection.
• Ability to conceptualize and communicate fundamental elements of radiological safety/protection to both technical and non‑technical personnel.
• Skill in preparation and presentation of radiological safety/protection reports.

• Working knowledge of Health Physics principles, theories, concepts, and techniques.
• Operational Health Physics knowledge, including contamination control, external exposure control, and airborne radioactivity monitoring.
• Ability to conceptualize and communicate fundamental elements of radiological safety/protection to technical and non‑technical personnel.
• Ability to prepare and present radiological safety/protection reports.
• Experience responding to radiological incidents and emergencies.
• 1 year nuclear experience.

Health Physicist 1: Bachelor’s Degree in Health Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or Physical Science, and 2 years of related experience (or equivalent). DOE O.426.2A requires a Bachelor’s Degree, 2 years of job‑related experience, and 1 year of nuclear experience.

Health Physicist 2: Bachelor’s Degree in Health Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or Physical Science, and 5 years of related experience (or equivalent).

• Working knowledge of actinide processing health physics.
• Working knowledge of air monitoring and contamination control, including containment tents and glove bags.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• At least one year working in a Nuclear Facility.
• Active Q clearance.

Depth perception, binocular vision, reading vision, ability to speak, ability to discriminate speech, hearing in a normal range (500–3000 Hz), standing, walking, use of stairs and fixed ladders, ability to lift 50 pounds and carry 35 pounds, ability to wear respiratory/protective equipment.

Shift work; may require 24/7 coverage, including shift/weekend schedules. Employees may be eligible for shift differential pay as assigned by the manager.

Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service of 1 year in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory.

• PPO or high‑deductible medical insurance with a nationwide network.
• Dental and vision insurance.
• Basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• 401(‑k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annual contribution.
• 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).

Q clearance required. Selected applicants will undergo a background investigation conducted by the Federal Government and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified material.

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China (including Hong Kong and Macau), the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, and the Russian Federation who are not lawful permanent residents are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, including Los Alamos National Laboratory.

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 citizenship within the limits imposed by applicable federal, state, and local laws. The Laboratory is committed to making the workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request.