Scientist

Job Summary General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for an entry-level Scientist experience to work within our Inertial Fusion Technology (IFT) group. The successful candidate will responsible for assembly and characterization support of first-of-a-kind Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) experimental packages (a.k.a targets) at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) in Rochester, NY.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide first of a kind experimental packages, characterization, and documentation support that enables cutting edge experiments at the National Laser User Facility (NLUF) across a wide range of disciplines: physics, astrophysics material science, chemistry in the high energy density (HED) phase space.
• Assemble and characterize precision fabricated components with nanometer sized features to within micron tolerances using high accuracy assembly and metrology stations. Assembly duties will require precise manipulation of minute objects, gluing, aligning and gas fill stations.
• Liaise with NLUF University Investigators to determine experimental package and characterization requirements.
• Plan and execute activities to ensure successful target availability for scientific experiments.
• Provide support during the experiments (laser shots) to see targets from concept through to final use.
• Design, build and/or procure necessary tools, fixtures, and components required to enhance assembly capabilities.
• Document findings, implement solutions, and communicate results to project staff to share assembly and characterization capabilities.
• Revise record systems for accuracy and content and amend procedures to improve yield, efficiency, and quality of the product.
• Interface with GA target production staff as well as experimentalists at LLE to properly assemble and field targets.
• Grow into the position of point of contact at LLE for NLUF experiments.
• Work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.
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We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.


Job Qualifications:

• Typically requires a Bachelors degree in a scientific or related discipline. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Must have a basic understanding of engineering/scientific concepts, principles, and theory.
• Must demonstrate a basic understanding of scientific concepts, principles, and theory and the ability to follow and apply basic scientific knowledge, adapt standard techniques, and utilize the required diagnostics, tools and equipment, while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
• Must be able to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment.
• Good communication, MS Office Suite, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other professionals, to produce appropriate documentation, and to present results to a limited internal audience.
• Basic knowledge and awareness of hazardous material safe handling protocols and cleanroom protocols is preferred.
• Experience with Computer Aided Design software such as SolidWorks or VisRad is preferred.
• Must be able to work both independently and on a team, and able to work extended hours as required.