Lead Engineer - X-ray Instrumentation Development

$180,000 - $236,000/Yr

United States Department of Energy - Menlo Park, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Menlo Park, CA

Administration of Economic Programs

About the position

The Lead Engineer for X-ray Instrumentation Development at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory will play a pivotal role in advancing X-ray experimental capabilities through the design and development of complex scientific instrumentation. This position involves leading engineering initiatives, overseeing the development of precision mechanical systems, and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The successful candidate will contribute to the ongoing upgrades of the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS), which is a major investment aimed at enhancing X-ray science capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide engineering leadership for new initiatives that advance X-ray experimental capabilities through delivery of complex scientific instrumentation.
• Oversee the design and development of precision mechanical systems, including vacuum components, optomechanical assemblies, motion systems, and cryogenic devices.
• Provide engineering leadership for the integration and testing of systems and devices, working with staff scientists, fabrication facilities, and technicians.
• Manage the fabrication, assembly, and testing of mechanical components and systems, ensuring high standards of precision and reliability.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design drawings, engineering reports, and assembly instructions.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers and other team members.
• Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and project management standards throughout the design and fabrication process.
• Participate in technical reviews, providing expertise on engineering issues and contributing to the continuous improvement of processes and systems.
• Responsible for the execution and delivery of technical scope, within budget and on schedule, with a high degree of quality assurance using standardized engineering processes.
• May function as a Cost Account Manager (CAM) in project management roles.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a strong focus on precision X-ray instrumentation design and development for Synchrotron or XFEL facilities.
• Proven expertise in designing and developing high-precision mechanical systems, with experience in vacuum systems, cryogenics, or optomechanics being highly desirable.
• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD modeling (e.g., CREO, Solid Edge, SolidWorks, Siemens NX) and FEA tools for structural and thermal analysis (e.g., ANSYS).
• Experience working in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment with scientists and engineers to translate complex technical requirements into technical solutions.
• Familiarity with industry standards and practices for machining, fabrication, and assembly of high-precision components.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with a proven ability to lead projects and mentor junior team members.
• Demonstrated project management experience, with the ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulatory compliance related to x-ray, lasers and radiation in a research or industrial environment.

Nice-to-haves

• A Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering and 5 years of relevant experience similar to those listed above, or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Design of vibration and thermal isolation for complex mechanical systems.
• Creating complex 3D CAD model parts, assemblies & beamline layouts using Solid Edge.
• Experience with design, operation, and maintenance of UHV vacuum systems.
• Background in working within XFEL or similar large-scale scientific facilities.
• Experience with ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems, motion control, and alignment systems for scientific instrumentation.
• Knowledge of cryogenic cooling systems and components used in low-temperature scientific experiments.
• Experience with additive manufacturing technologies and their application in mechanical designs.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $180,000 to $236,000 per annum.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan options.
• Paid holidays and vacation time.
• Support for work-life balance and flexible scheduling.