Accelerator Operator (Operator 4)

$67,800 - $107,700/Yr

Los Alamos National Laboratory - Los Alamos, NM

Full-time - Entry Level

Los Alamos, NM

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Accelerator Operator position at Los Alamos National Laboratory involves operating the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center's proton accelerator, contributing to significant scientific research and national defense initiatives. The role requires the operator to manage complex operating configurations, troubleshoot and repair accelerator systems, and ensure safe and efficient operations while working rotating shifts. This position serves as an entry point into accelerator operations, requiring formal qualification within two years.

Responsibilities

• Assist in establishing and maintaining complex operating configurations within specified operating and safety envelopes.
• Assist in establishing and maintaining the LANSCE particle beams using computer control systems and locally adjusted devices.
• Assist in operating, troubleshooting and repairing all elements of the beam transport, acceleration and delivery systems and all ancillary systems required for LANSCE accelerator facility operation.
• In cooperation with other technical organizations and teams, assist in fabricating, installing, maintaining and repairing systems critical to the operation of the LANSCE accelerator and beam delivery complex.
• Utilize approved procedures to safely and efficiently perform tasks.
• Qualify as an accelerator operator through a formal qualification program within two years.

Requirements

• Current experience in safely operating a complicated process or facility under formal conduct of operations, such as the operation of a major charged-particle accelerator or nuclear power reactor.
• Experience troubleshooting and repairing electric, electronic, and/or electro-mechanical components of operating systems.
• Demonstrated experience following detailed procedures.
• Strong record of compliance with training and qualification requirements.
• The ability to work rotating shift work under extended work hours.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including effective interpersonal skills with team members, other employees and customers.

Nice-to-haves

• Current and extensive experience in the LANSCE control room as an accelerator operator.
• Willingness to take responsibility for crew's decisions and actions and to make improvements or changes when needed.
• Able to implement and adhere to well vetted conduct of operations principles while remaining flexible and forward thinking in order to drive continuous improvement and adapt to change.
• Strong attention to administrative details such as following operating procedures, ensuring training is complete, and training junior operators.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.

Benefits

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid maternity and parental leave
• Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
• 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)