We have an opening for a Target Experiment Systems Manager supporting the Cryo Systems Operations team within the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science Directorate (NIF and PS). In this role, you will manage the fielding of cryogenic and room-temperature targets using complex electromechanical systems that support high-consequence experimental operations. You will provide technical leadership and hands-on expertise in the design, operation, troubleshooting, evaluation, and readiness of target fielding capabilities. You will also ensure the systems that hold and position targets meet requirements for operational readiness, safety, reliability, and configuration control. You will work independently with general direction, applying advanced engineering judgment to solve challenging, first‑of‑a‑kind technical problems while establishing and maintaining metrics for target performance and fielding issues. This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work. You will Lead the development and execution of test plans utilizing best practices, ensuring results are reproducible and well documented. Resolve complex to highly complex technical problems, complete assigned tasks with general direction, and communicate results clearly. Coordinate with Cryo Operations staff, management, and Shot Operations to ensure target experiment activities in the control room and facility comply with approved procedures and safety plans. Analyze performance metrics and operational trends to identify best practices and drive process improvements. Maintain a working understanding of complex system requirements, critical functions, performance limits, failure modes, and as-built configurations for target positioners, and assess impacts to target fielding. Sustain system operability, safety, reliability, availability, and maintainability (RAM), and configuration control through periodic reviews. Maintain and manage system documentation, including fielding types, shot checklists, fielding plans, maintenance procedures, training materials, and records. Provide technical input in design reviews and participate in target fielding assignments, target approvals, and operational readiness activities. Develop, maintain, and continuously improve operating, testing, maintenance, qualification, and acceptance procedures. Commission and recommission new or modified systems and define and verify required re-testing following maintenance or configuration changes. Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and system training to Cryo System Operators and Field Leads. Design, maintain, and troubleshoot complex electromechanical systems used to hold and position NIF targets. Perform other duties as assigned.
Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Electronic technology or related technical field, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience. Proficient in Microsoft suite applications, such as Word, Excel, Project, and Power Point. Advanced skills and understanding of relevant technologies and processes to design complex systems, including interpreting metrics, analyzing data, and solving complex to highly complex problems. Advanced mechanical skills and understanding of electro-mechanical systems working in a cryogenic environment. Ability to mentor and provide technical direction to others in a technical operations or R&D environment. Advanced experience and expertise in troubleshooting complex to highly complex problems and root cause analysis. Advanced experience authoring and editing technical work documents and procedures. Qualifications We Desire Demonstrated ability to perform detailed work with a high level of accuracy and strong attention to detail. Experience training others and providing technical guidance, including developing training materials, delivering hands on instruction, and mentoring team members to ensure consistent understanding and proper execution of technical procedures. Experience working on cryogenic capabilities, fragile hardware exchanges, and precision temperature control. Experience planning and coordinating schedules and activities, including organizing resources, aligning tasks with milestones, and adjusting to changing priorities. Experience in NIF Shot Operations. Pay Range $125,310 - $153,444 Annually This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. 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.
#LI-Onsite Position Information This is a Career Indefinite position, open to Lab employees and external candidates.