What are the responsibilities and job description for the Surface Analytical Scientist position at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
Company Description
Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!
Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.
We are dedicated to fostering a culture that values individuals, talents, partnerships, ideas, experiences, and different perspectives, recognizing their importance to the continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.
Pay Range
$140,700 - $214,032
$140,700 - $178,392 Annually for the SES.2 level
$168,780 - $214,032 Annually for the SES.3 level
This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.
Job Description
We are seeking a Surface Analytical Scientist to conduct materials analysis and research using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and related techniques. You will serve as the primary point of contact for XPS data collection and analysis, supporting diverse projects in national security and advanced materials research. You will have the opportunity to engage with several multi-disciplinary science teams supporting a broad range of national security applications and related fields. This position is in the Nanoscale, Surface, and Interface Science group of the Materials for Emerging Applications & Extreme Conditions section in the Materials Science Division.
This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.
This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.
You will
Position Information
This is a Flexible Term appointment, which is for a definite period not to exceed six years. If final candidate is a Career Indefinite employee, Career Indefinite status may be maintained (should funding allow).
Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance. If you are selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also, all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing. Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship.
Pre-Employment Drug Test
External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.
Wireless and Medical Devices
Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.
If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.
How To Identify Fake Job Advertisements
Please be aware of recruitment scams where people or entities are misusing the name of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to post fake job advertisements. LLNL never extends an offer without a personal interview and will never charge a fee for joining our company. All current job openings are displayed on the Career Page under “Find Your Job” of our website. If you have encountered a job posting or have been approached with a job offer that you suspect may be fraudulent, we strongly recommend you do not respond.
To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.
Reasonable Accommodation
Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request.
California Privacy Notice
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here.
Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!
Are you interested in joining some of the brightest talent in the world to strengthen the United States’ security? Come join Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) where our employees apply their expertise to create solutions for BIG ideas that make our world a better place.
We are dedicated to fostering a culture that values individuals, talents, partnerships, ideas, experiences, and different perspectives, recognizing their importance to the continued success of the Laboratory’s mission.
Pay Range
$140,700 - $214,032
$140,700 - $178,392 Annually for the SES.2 level
$168,780 - $214,032 Annually for the SES.3 level
This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.
Job Description
We are seeking a Surface Analytical Scientist to conduct materials analysis and research using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and related techniques. You will serve as the primary point of contact for XPS data collection and analysis, supporting diverse projects in national security and advanced materials research. You will have the opportunity to engage with several multi-disciplinary science teams supporting a broad range of national security applications and related fields. This position is in the Nanoscale, Surface, and Interface Science group of the Materials for Emerging Applications & Extreme Conditions section in the Materials Science Division.
This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.
This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.
You will
- Execute and oversee characterization experiments using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) on of a broad range of materials, e.g., metals, hazardous materials (e.g., radioactive) and polymers
- Perform data reduction, peak fitting, interpretation and prepare data reports, including relevant literature where appropriate
- Manage routine equipment calibration, maintenance, and optimization
- Coordinate and assist with sample preparation, handling, and supporting characterization
- Maintain laboratory records, including sample and collection metadata
- Interact with vendors, trades, and technical staff to coordinate or perform repairs, upgrades, or other necessary maintenance
- Communicate proactively with customers and stakeholders to actively manage XPS instrument prioritization, throughput and uptime
- Collaborate effectively within an integrated, multidisciplinary team.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Provide subject matter expertise on X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, including elements of the following: advanced data collection and analysis methods, instrumentation and hardware maintenance, and familiarity with the state-of-the-art.
- Oversee and collaborate with scientists and technicians to ensure project deliverables and efficient laboratory operations.
- Lead experimental design for characterization of surface and interfacial phenomena using XPS and related techniques
- Document and publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals
- Maintain professional and institutional visibility through participation in conferences and technical outreach
- Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship
- Master’s degree in analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science or related field, or the equivalent combination of education and experience
- Proficient experience operating and maintaining X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy equipment
- Experience in data analysis, including peak fitting and/or assignment
- Familiarity with complementary analytical methods such as Auger electron spectroscopy, and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry
- Proficient verbal and written communication skills relaying technical information
- Proficient interpersonal skills for collaboration with multidisciplinary teams
- Ph.D. in analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, materials science or related field, or the equivalent combination of education and experience
- Demonstrated success managing multidisciplinary projects and delivering high-quality technical products.
- Significant experience documenting and publishing research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals
- Advanced communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Prior experience working on DOE and/or DOD projects
- Expert experience with ultrahigh vacuum system design, assembly, and maintenance
- Experience with near-ambient pressure XPS, or in situ liquid/gas cells for soft X-ray analysis
- Proficiency working with air-free environments (e.g., gloveboxes)
- Demonstrated ability to write proposals and secure research funding
Position Information
This is a Flexible Term appointment, which is for a definite period not to exceed six years. If final candidate is a Career Indefinite employee, Career Indefinite status may be maintained (should funding allow).
Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
- Included in 2025 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
- Flexible Benefits Package
- 401(k)
- Relocation Assistance
- Education Reimbursement Program
- Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
- Our values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values
This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance. If you are selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also, all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing. Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship.
Pre-Employment Drug Test
External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.
Wireless and Medical Devices
Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled devices.
If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings.
How To Identify Fake Job Advertisements
Please be aware of recruitment scams where people or entities are misusing the name of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to post fake job advertisements. LLNL never extends an offer without a personal interview and will never charge a fee for joining our company. All current job openings are displayed on the Career Page under “Find Your Job” of our website. If you have encountered a job posting or have been approached with a job offer that you suspect may be fraudulent, we strongly recommend you do not respond.
To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.
Reasonable Accommodation
Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request.
California Privacy Notice
The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here.
Salary : $140,700 - $214,032