Engineering Technician V – PCS Operations & Maintenance Technician (NWS 00940)

North Wind Group•Livermore, CA

11d•Onsite

About The Position

North Wind Services (NWS) is seeking individuals to support the Department of Energy at vital federal research and development installations. This position supports the National Ignition Facility (NIF), the world’s largest and most energetic laser facility. The successful candidate will operate the Power Conditioning System (PCS) and the Plasma-Electrode Pockels Cell (PEPC) systems using high-level computer control systems and following detailed procedures. The PCS involves high voltage capacitor bank modules, and the PEPC system uses high voltage electronics and controls for optical switching. The role requires operating these systems remotely via GUIs and performing site maintenance across multiple engineering disciplines, including electrical distribution, high voltage equipment, digital and analog circuits, vacuum controls, and compressed air controls. Primary interactions will be with lead operators, shot directors, system managers, and electrical engineering support personnel. NIF operates 24/7, and operators typically work 12-hour shifts, including overtime for the last two hours. Specific shift schedules involve rotating 12-hour dayshifts and owl shifts.

Requirements

AA/AS degree in Electronics Technology, or at least four years of equivalent experience.
Strong knowledge of electrical schematics, assembly drawings, analog and digital circuits.
Skilled in troubleshooting, repairing, and upgrading high-voltage and power systems, control hardware, and vacuum or mechanical technologies.
Comfortable with computer-based control systems and diagnostics, and able to learn new technologies quickly.
Proficient with hand tools and mechanical assemblies; adept at cable terminations, connectors, and timing documentation.
Capable of making independent, logical decisions under pressure and with minimal supervision.
Deep understanding of safe work practices in high-voltage environments.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; organized, reliable, and proactive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team setting.
Must be a US citizen.
At least 18 years of age.
Able to meet pre-employment requirements including any required physicals, drug screen, and/or background investigation to satisfy clearance requirements from the Department of Energy.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with fiber optic cables.
Experience with creating and maintaining documentation (including simple schematics).
Familiarity with Windows operating systems, PCs, networked drives and servers, web-based applications, and embedded computers.
Experience with Microsoft Office and LabVIEW.
Experience operating or maintaining vacuum systems and low-pressure (100 psi) systems.
Experience with lock-out tag-out (LOTO) procedures.
Experience in the design and implementation of electronic/computer controls as well as actuators, motors, pneumatics, and sensors.

Responsibilities

Operate the Power Conditioning System (PCS) and Plasma-Electrode Pockels Cell (PEPC) using high-level computer controls to support the world’s most powerful laser at the National Ignition Facility.
Diagnose and resolve issues with high-voltage modules, analog and digital circuits, and control systems using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools such as oscilloscopes and computer-based systems.
Perform hands-on maintenance and acceptance testing of critical components, including plasma pulse generators and turbo pumps, to ensure equipment is always ready for high-stakes operations.
Accurately document repairs, maintenance actions, and system status, and communicate effectively to ensure smooth shift transitions and minimal downtime.
Manage spare parts inventory for critical systems, ensuring that essential components are always available.
Follow detailed safety procedures to render high-voltage systems safe for maintenance, conduct area “sweeps” before laser operations, and uphold rigorous Environmental, Safety & Health (ES&H) standards.
Provide input on new and existing procedures, automate trend reviews, and contribute to a culture of innovation and excellence.
Work closely with scientists, engineers, and technicians to solve complex problems and deliver mission-critical results in a 24/7 operational environment.