Mechanical Test Engineer

LLNL•Livermore, CA

16h•Hybrid

About The Position

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s Defense Technologies Engineering Division has multiple openings for Mechanical Test Engineers in the Environmental & Mechanical Test Group. Under supervision, the engineer conducts experimental testing for projects involving environmental testing, modal analysis, health monitoring, aging studies, data acquisition, load testing, instrumentation, and measurement diagnostics. The work supports Strategic Deterrence, Global Security, and the National Ignition Facility. The position reports to a DTED Environmental & Mechanical Test Group Leader. Depending on the assignment, a hybrid schedule may be available, with the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week. The role may be filled at either the SES.1 or SES.2 level based on knowledge and related experience. At the SES.1 level, the engineer performs testing, analysis, documentation, calculations, design and assembly support, and project-team collaboration, while addressing problems of limited complexity using standard techniques. At the SES.2 level, additional responsibilities include independently defining engineering requirements, preparing project plans, schedules, and budgets, and conducting independent technical work and research support.

Requirements

Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required for the clearance.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Fundamental knowledge of testing practices and data processing.
Fundamental knowledge and/or experience in one or more of the following: vibration and shock measurements; experimental modal and dynamic analysis; instrumentation; or data acquisition theory, including the Nyquist criterion and anti-aliasing.
Experience using MATLAB or other computer programming codes for data manipulation and analysis.
Fundamental knowledge of engineering hardware design and fabrication.
Effective verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly present technical concepts and ideas and collaborate with technical staff.
For the SES.2 level, comprehensive knowledge of measurement sensors and when to use specific sensors for particular applications.
For the SES.2 level, ability to use independent judgment in determining methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria.
For the SES.2 level, comprehensive verbal and written communication skills to collaborate in a team environment and present and explain technical information.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering.

Responsibilities

Design and conduct tests on mechanical and/or diagnostic systems, analyze results, and author reports.
Conduct experimental modal analyses and analyze results in conjunction with modeling and simulation.
Operate test equipment, including shaker systems, shock machines, and thermal chambers, using sound testing and measurement practices.
Prepare safety and engineering documentation and participate in formal engineering design reviews.
Perform supporting engineering calculations for structural, thermal, and diagnostic systems.
Participate in detailed design, component fabrication, and unit assembly.
Solve problems of limited complexity by evaluating readily identifiable factors using standard techniques and methodologies.
Work as a member of a project team in a dynamic environment.
Coordinate with internal and external peers to plan and execute testing.
At the SES.2 level, independently define engineering requirements for structural, thermal, fluidic, and diagnostic systems within the assigned project scope.
At the SES.2 level, prepare detailed plans, schedules, and budgets for project activities.
At the SES.2 level, perform independent technical tasks and projects, support research efforts, and select methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria based on analysis of multiple, largely identifiable factors.
Perform other duties as assigned.