System Physics Lead - Active Clearance Required

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

$262,410 - $332,772 Annually for the SEL.5 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.  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.

We have an opening for a Physics Lead for the SLCM-N system to work within the Weapon Physics and Design (WPD) program.  In this role you will be the technical physics lead for the SLCM-N program, reporting directly to the SLCM-N Program Management Office and to the WPD Associate Program Director for Stockpile Design and Modernization.  This position is in the Strategic Deterrence (SD) Directorate.

This position may offer a hybrid schedule, which includes the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week, after a probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule, including the exact number of days required in the office and virtual work options, may vary based on the needs of the team and the organization.

You will

• Represent the SLCM-N to WPD, SD management, and potentially other organizations at internal and external meetings, including preparing and giving presentations as needed.
• Communicate programmatic guidance and information between the SLCM-N WPD physics design teams (primary and secondary), SLCM-N Program Management, and WPD management.
• Promote and maintain strong relationships and communication with NNSA and other NNSA laboratories and sites.
• Develop and promote partnerships and collaborations across LLNL with disciplines and other programs to ensure programmatic deliverables are met.
• Participate in internal and external reviews of the SLCM-N which may involve developing and delivering focused briefings to support the specific needs of such reviews.
• Assist in the identification of risks and the development of adequate mitigation strategies.
• Support the physics teams with all Earned Value Management deliverables on a regular basis.
• Provide SME input where needed/requested on issues being addressed by the physics teams.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance or active Top-Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at the time of hire.
• PhD in physics, engineering or a related field or the equivalent combination of education and related experience
• Expert knowledge of multi-physics modeling and simulation with demonstrated deep experience in design and familiarity with the LLNL weapon-physics programs, specifically extensive expert knowledge of primary or secondary physics.
• Extensive experience managing and leading a significant technical portfolio, supporting large-scale projects led by others, building budgets and spending plans, and a demonstrated ability to deliver results.
• Highly advanced problem solving, analytical, technical, organizational, and management skills necessary to independently advise, recommend, and approve appropriate actions with demonstrated extensive experience setting and implementing specific strategies and directing multi-disciplinary teams to achieve stockpile goals.
• Substantial experience presenting and disseminating highly advanced research results at scientific conferences and peer-reviewed publications, in open or classified environments, internal or external to LLNL.  
• Expert communication skills, both written and verbal, necessary to effectively explain, present, negotiate, advise, and influence all levels of NNSA weapon program management.

Qualifications We Desire

• Significant experience and knowledge of LLNL weapon programs.
• Significant experience or knowledge of one or more production agencies.
• Substantial experience communicating to NNSA sponsors and DoD stakeholders.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Position Information

This is a Career Indefinite position, open to Lab employees and external candidates.

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

Security Clearance

This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance or active Top Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at time of hire. 

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.

Pre-Placement Medical Exam

A job related pre-placement medical examination may be required.

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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. 

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