Senior Lab Technician

Job Summary General Atomics (GA) and its affiliated companies are global leaders in high-technology systems development, specializing in everything from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless, and laser technologies. General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures pioneering electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. Our growing portfolio of specialized products and integrated solutions supports critical defense, space systems, missile defense, power and energy, and industrial applications worldwide.
We are currently seeking a Laboratory/Test Technician to support our Nuclear Technologies & Materials (NTM) division, supporting key projects such as Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF), Fast Modular Reactor (ARC-20), and NASA Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP). Based at our Torrey Pines/Sorrento Valley/Rancho Bernardo locations, this position offers the opportunity to work closely with scientific teams on cutting-edge research and engineering tasks.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Fabrication & Equipment Maintenance: Fabricate, modify, install, maintain, and document complex laboratory and experimental equipment in support of prototype and lab processes.
• Assembly & Design: Interpret general instructions, plan assembly sequences, prepare quality assurance documentation, and create sketches and schematics. Assist in the design and development of lab, experimental, and commercial equipment, and new designs and processes.
• Testing & Data Collection: Operate specialized equipment and perform tests requiring knowledge of processes relevant to NTM projects. Accurately read precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and depth gauges. Collect, record, reduce, and maintain data on experiments, summarizing results, and effectively communicating findings to engineering teams.
• Troubleshooting & Operational Support: Identify, report, and troubleshoot operational issues in equipment or tests. Adjust operating parameters to maintain optimal conditions and develop solutions, including assisting in the design of specialized components.
• Safety & Regulatory Compliance: Work safely with potentially hazardous materials (e.g., chemicals, gases, and radioactive substances), adhering to established safety protocols. Maintain compliance with all safety and regulatory guidelines, while staying current with required safety training.
• Radioactive Materials Handling: Specifically responsible for the safe handling, operation, and maintenance of equipment that involves radioactive materials. Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to all safety regulations related to radioactive materials handling.
• Laboratory Leadership: Provide direction to other technicians in assembly, maintenance, and operation of laboratory equipment and tests. Ensure best practices for laboratory procedures and safety are followed.
• Additional Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned, including monitoring and maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the lab environment.

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 associate's degree or equivalent with nine or more years of experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with common hand tools and laboratory equipment. Experience with Chemical Vapor Infiltration (CVI) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) vacuum systems, including vacuum pump operation and maintenance, is highly desirable.
• Machining & Fabrication: Experience with lathe, milling machine, and drill press operation is highly desirable.
• Security Clearance: Ability to acquire and maintain a Secret Clearance is highly desirable.
• Chemical & Radiological Materials Handling: Experience handling chemicals and the use of a respirator is preferred. Experience and/or relevant training for handling radiological materials is highly desirable.
• CAD & Design: Ability to understand and interpret CAD drawings is desirable.
• Mathematical & Measurement Skills: Strong math skills, with the ability to convert between decimals and fractions, and between imperial and metric units.
• Independent Work: Capability to perform complex assignments with limited supervision.
• Specialized Systems: Willingness to work on systems involving high pressure, high voltage, high energy, cryogens, or radioactive materials, performing tasks confidently while using PPE.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to work in a lab environment requiring long periods of standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Heavy Equipment Operation: Experience with forklifts, cranes, lifts, and company vehicles to aid in equipment installation and removal. A valid driver’s license and clean driving record are required.
• Additional Skills:
  • Experience with water cooling systems, plumbing, pumps, motors, and controllers is highly desirable.
  • Basic electronics knowledge is desirable.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel is desirable.
  • Must be available on a call-in basis to perform emergent repairs.

Salary:$71,950 - $109,885