Control Systems Engineer - Entry Level

Join our team at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as a Control Systems Engineer, where you will contribute to cutting-edge projects in advanced control systems. As an entry-level engineer, you will work under the guidance of experienced professionals to design, analyze, and implement state-of-the-art control systems that enhance operational efficiency …

Join the innovative team at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as a Control System Engineer. In this role, you will design, develop, and implement control systems that contribute to groundbreaking research in various scientific fields. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure that our control systems are efficient, reliable, and meet high standards of performance.

We are excited to announce multiple openings for a Control Systems Engineer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). In this dynamic role, you will be instrumental in crafting innovative engineering solutions to develop, implement, and sustain the control systems hardware at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) — the world’s most powerful pulsed laser system that recently contributed to a significant breakthrough in fusion research. With an impressive network of over 60,000 control points throughout the facility, many of NIF's subsystems rely on cutting-edge control technologies.Your contributions will enhance the engineering design, development, and upgrades of hardware systems, thereby improving performance and reliability. This position is housed within the Laser Systems Engineering and Operations (LSEO) Division of our Engineering Directorate.Please note that this position necessitates full-time, on-site work due to the hands-on nature of the responsibilities.This role will be filled at either entry or higher level depending on the candidate's knowledge and experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional responsibilities will be assigned if the higher level is filled.Your Responsibilities Include:Operating under general direction while adhering to established procedures, utilizing foundational knowledge and standard techniques to address challenges and contribute to project milestones.Providing hardware and software solutions that underpin the definition, design, documentation, assembly, fielding, and maintenance of control systems, including utility systems, safety systems, and laser alignment diagnostics hardware.Engaging in daily activities that involve engineering support for the deployment, activation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and maintenance of control systems of limited complexity, employing standard methodologies.Assisting in the development and maintenance of system requirement specifications and control system designs under the guidance of senior engineers, ensuring alignment with project objectives and standards.Reducing project risks by participating in formal and informal design reviews, offering insights on technical issues, and implementing feedback from senior staff.Maintaining open communication with scientists, engineers, technicians, and designers to foster collaboration, provide updates on assigned tasks, and facilitate communication with end users.Supporting the NIF operations team by troubleshooting facility-related issues and planned work affecting control systems.Participating in the reactive maintenance on-call rotation as required.Performing other duties as assigned.Additional Responsibilities at the SES.2 Level:Working under limited direction with moderate responsibility, leveraging extensive knowledge and exercising independent judgment to determine methods and recommend improvements.

Join our dynamic team at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as a Controls Engineer. You will play a key role in supporting the Controls Engineering and Maintenance group within the National Ignition Facility & Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate, renowned for housing the world’s most powerful laser. This is an extraordinary opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific achievements, including the historic fusion ignition that has opened new frontiers in physics and fusion energy exploration.Your responsibilities will include the development, implementation, and maintenance of industrial control systems, focusing primarily on programmable logic controllers (PLCs). These systems will range from simple to complex automation controls and will support various applications such as ultra-high vacuum systems, cooling systems, laser diagnostics, machine protection systems, and personnel safety interlocked systems, utilizing platforms like Rockwell PLCs and other OEM systems.The position is part of the Laser Systems Engineering and Operations (LSEO) Division, within the Engineering Directorate.Key Responsibilities:Work autonomously with minimal oversight, leveraging advanced technical knowledge and judgment to establish objectives, prioritize tasks, allocate resources, and collaborate on innovative project solutions aligned with organizational goals.Deliver effective control system solutions for complex challenges through thorough analysis and independent decision-making.Engage with multidisciplinary teams to define and maintain control system requirements.Develop software solutions for device-level controls, automated processes, and supervisory applications, including controller applications and graphical user interfaces.Participate in both formal and informal code and design reviews.Contribute to software development while adhering to strict configuration management protocols.Collaborate with hardware engineers to design robust industrial control systems, identifying necessary hardware, software, and communication protocols for effective device/controller interfaces.Partner with hardware installers to ensure seamless integration with associated software.Assist system managers and software testers in creating and executing test procedures.Utilize advanced technical expertise to support intricate troubleshooting efforts.Conduct Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) research to enhance control system architecture.Mentor junior staff, providing guidance during production and commissioning activities on subsystems.Participate in an on-call rotation to support the operations team outside of standard business hours.

Role Overview Inertia is hiring a Senior Controls Engineer in Livermore. This role focuses on designing, developing, and implementing control systems for advanced engineering projects. The work blends a strong foundation in control theory with hands-on application to solve real-world challenges.

Overview:We are looking for forward-thinking Controls Engineers to enhance our high-power laser system design and testing capabilities within Inertia's groundbreaking fusion energy program. Join a dynamic team focused on developing the world's most advanced average power pulsed lasers, which will serve as the foundational 'unit cell' of our future power plant. Collaborating with industry leaders, government entities, and academic institutions, we aim to construct a demonstrator beamline capable of delivering 10 kJ at 10 Hz with a remarkable 10% wall-plug efficiency, utilizing cutting-edge diode-pumped solid state laser technology (DPSSL).The role will involve the design of high-power test facilities, co-designing integrated beamline systems, and coupling these systems to high-velocity targets.

Join the forefront of innovation at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as an Industrial Controls Cognizant Systems Engineer. In this pivotal role, you will leverage your expertise in nuclear facility operations and controls to develop and enhance systems that ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is hiring a Mechanical Engineer to work on optomechanical systems. This role contributes to advanced engineering projects that support the lab's research and technology initiatives. Key responsibilities Design and analyze optomechanical components and assemblies for a range of research projects. Collaborate with engineers and scientists from different disciplines to develop systems. Apply technical expertise to projects that advance laboratory research objectives. Location This position is based in Livermore, California.

Join the innovative team at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as a Power Electronics Engineer specializing in Laser and Experimental Systems. In this exciting role, you will contribute to the design, development, and testing of cutting-edge power electronics technologies that support advanced laser systems and experimental research.

Join the team at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) as a Spacecraft Systems Engineer. In this pivotal role, you will leverage your engineering expertise to develop and manage innovative spacecraft systems that support our cutting-edge research and technology initiatives. You will collaborate with a diverse team of professionals to design, implement, and optimize spacecraft systems, ensuring their efficiency and reliability in various mission scenarios.

Join the pioneering team at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory as a Pulsed Power Engineer, specializing in laser and experimental systems. In this exciting role, you will contribute to cutting-edge research and development projects that advance our understanding and application of pulsed power technology. You will collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers to design, test, and optimize experimental setups that push the boundaries of innovation.

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) seeks a Senior Systems Project Engineer to design, implement, and manage complex systems projects. This position supports initiatives that advance national security and scientific research. Role overview The Senior Systems Project Engineer works closely with multidisciplinary teams, contributing technical expertise and project leadership. The focus is on delivering solutions that meet demanding requirements and support LLNL’s mission. Key responsibilities Design and oversee implementation of advanced systems projects Manage project timelines, resources, and deliverables Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and other professionals to achieve project goals Impact This role directly supports LLNL’s commitment to innovation in national security and scientific progress by ensuring the success of critical systems projects.

We are excited to announce a position for a Senior Systems Engineer focused on promoting the integration of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), as well as digital requirements management and other digital engineering methodologies within the Weapon Technologies and Engineering (WTE) Program of the Deterrence Capabilities Group. In this role, you will act as a vital cross-functional product expert and a trusted advisor, guiding engineering teams in leveraging digital engineering tools and processes to their fullest potential, including discrete requirements management and MBSE.Your collaboration with multidisciplinary teams will be essential in advancing MBSE and related digital engineering practices. You will contribute to shaping business processes, provide training, and serve as a key link between solution providers and end users, ensuring effective adoption and integration of tools. You will also play a crucial role in advocating for digital engineering practices and fostering communities of practice. This position is embedded within the Deterrence Capabilities Group (DCG) of the Defense Technologies Engineering Division (DTED), directly supporting the WTE Program.This role may offer a hybrid work schedule, providing the opportunity to work from home one day per week after the initial probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule will depend on team and organizational needs.Depending on your qualifications and experience, this position may be filled at different levels, with additional responsibilities outlined below for higher-level placements.Your Responsibilities:Act as a primary liaison between weapon systems engineers and digital solution providers, facilitating the adoption of NSE-wide digital engineering solutions to create a cohesive digital thread.Support Strategic Deterrence (SD) in the development of MBSE infrastructure and capabilities, which includes defining policies, enhancing processes, and delivering training in advanced digital engineering methodologies.Mentor and educate staff in requirements management, MBSE tools, techniques, and best practices, in collaboration with DCG, System Engineering and Integration (SE&I), WTE, and SD Applications Program personnel.Contribute to the development of technical requirements for components and subsystems, including performance requirements, interface management, and traceability to verification activities.Collaborate with external agencies and partners on joint digital engineering initiatives and integration projects.Promote the discipline of systems engineering and modern digital engineering tools and practices to advance the objectives of the WTE and SD programs.Ensure timely and effective communication regarding program risks and requirements to leadership.

Overview:Inertia is on the lookout for a talented Cryogenics Engineer to spearhead the design and advancement of systems dedicated to layering deuterium-tritium (DT) fuel in inertial fusion energy (IFE) targets. This role encompasses the complete spectrum from prototyping to mass production systems, achieving target throughput rates of a few Hertz. The engineer will be responsible for transitioning targets from room temperature to cryogenic conditions for efficient fuel condensing and layering, ultimately passing them to a target injector (launcher) for acceleration into the power plant chamber. The development will also encompass the cryogenics systems necessary for housing the injector, making these elements vital for fueling the Inertia fusion power plant.Primary Responsibilities:Lead the design and development of cryogenics systems for effective fuel layering in IFE targets.Create and refine cryogenic systems for target injector housing, contributing to injector design efforts.Develop and implement tests to assess the performance of cryogenic systems and analyze resultant data.Support additional cryogenic projects related to power plants, including tritium recovery, purification systems, and chamber gas recirculation.Qualifications:Required:Ph.D. or Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering, Applied Physics, Physics, or a related field.Proven experience in designing and developing sophisticated cryogenics systems.Demonstrated capability in modeling static heat loads and transient cooldowns in cryogenic environments.Exceptional analytical skills with a focus on data measurement and analysis.Preferred:Experience with cryogenic mechanical and fluid handling systems.Background in designing systems for handling deuterium-tritium (DT).Familiarity with fusion cryogenic systems.Experience with various closed-loop cryogenic plant equipment.Proficiency in FEM or FDM codes.Salary & Benefits:The base salary range for this role is $125,000 - $200,000; actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education.

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory seeks a Cloud and Application Infrastructure Systems Engineer to help design, implement, and maintain cloud-based infrastructure. The work supports scientific research and national security programs that demand reliable and secure systems. Role overview This position centers on building and supporting scalable cloud and application infrastructure. The engineer will work closely with colleagues from different disciplines to create systems that meet demanding performance and compliance standards. Key responsibilities Design and deploy cloud infrastructure solutions for research and security projects Maintain and optimize application environments for performance and reliability Collaborate with teams across the laboratory to deliver secure, scalable systems Ensure infrastructure aligns with security and compliance requirements What to expect This role provides the chance to work with advanced technology and contribute to projects with national impact. The environment encourages collaboration and technical growth.

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is hiring a Combat Simulation Systems Analyst based in Livermore. This role centers on the development and analysis of combat simulation systems that contribute to military training and research efforts. Role overview The position involves technical analysis of simulation platforms and active participation in projects aimed at enhancing training methods for military use. Collaboration with team members and stakeholders is a key part of the work, as projects often require input from multiple disciplines. Key responsibilities Develop and analyze combat simulation systems for military training and research. Conduct technical analysis to assess and improve simulation effectiveness. Work with project teams to advance training methods for military applications. Location This position is based in Livermore.

Join our dynamic team as a Facility Electrical Design Engineer, System Manager at the National Ignition Facility & Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate, which hosts the world's most powerful laser. This is an exhilarating opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking advancements in fusion energy following the historic achievement of fusion ignition in December 2022, marking a pivotal shift in scientific exploration and energy solutions.In this role, you will collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, designers, and technicians on critical facility projects and the essential maintenance and operations of systems that support NIF. Your contributions will play a vital role in designing and developing system upgrades to enhance performance and reliability. Responsibilities will span the entire asset lifecycle, including requirements development, design, vendor sourcing, fabrication, installation, commissioning, operations support, maintenance, refurbishment, and decommissioning. This position is situated within the Laser Science Engineering Organization (LSEO) of our Engineering Directorate.Depending on your expertise and experience, this position may be filled at various levels, with additional responsibilities assigned for higher-level candidates.Your responsibilities will include:Operating with minimal direction while employing independent judgment to propose improvements within established frameworks, thus contributing to project and organizational goals.Collaborating as a member of a multi-disciplinary team, providing innovative solutions for lighting and power distribution in offices, research, and industrial environments.Serving as the primary contact for asset management of assigned systems, overseeing preventive, predictive, corrective, and reactive maintenance along with upgrades and expansion projects.Integrating multidisciplinary designs using CAD tools, conducting design reviews, and managing part fabrication, assembly, and testing while engaging with various stakeholders.Executing calculations and preparing documentation, including engineering safety notes, specifications, drawing packages, work orders, permits, and maintenance procedures for projects of varying complexity.Conducting comprehensive Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to identify potential failure modes, assess risk, recommend mitigations, and document findings to enhance system reliability and safety.

We are seeking a dedicated Manager of Target Layering Systems to lead the target layering process at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). In this pivotal role, you will oversee the meticulous layering activities essential for enhancing and expanding the functionality of our operations. Target layering involves the growth of a thin ice layer within a target capsule, utilizing sophisticated scripts and precise temperature control methodologies.Your responsibilities will include providing advanced technical solutions to the operations staff, optimizing both layering and x-ray operations processes. As a 24-hour facility, this position demands off-hours support for troubleshooting and technical guidance. You will be joining the Laser Systems Engineering & Operations (LSEO) Division within the Engineering Directorate.Key Responsibilities:Deliver innovative technical expertise through MATLAB process control code for the layering operations, focusing on cryogenic target systems, temperature control, and x-ray systems.Lead the creation and execution of test plans following industry best practices, ensuring that results are reproducible and thoroughly documented.Address complex technical challenges, completing tasks with minimal supervision while reporting outcomes effectively.Collaborate with Subject Matter Experts to develop comprehensive procedures for target layering operations and associated activities.Work closely with Cryo Operations staff and management to ensure adherence to established procedures and safety protocols during layered target experiments.Conduct training and qualification sessions for Cryogenic System Operators in target layering and x-ray diagnostics.Analyze operational metrics and trends to derive insights for best practices and process enhancements.Take ownership of all layering-related challenges within the facility, providing guidance as necessary.Perform additional duties as assigned.

Join our team as a Senior System Engineer to play a pivotal role in advancing the Warhead Modernization Programs. In this position, you will engage in high-level technical Systems Engineering activities alongside a dedicated team of professionals. Your responsibilities will encompass project integration and management of requirements, design mapping, function analysis, risk assessments, and verification processes aligned with project objectives.As an integral member of the design team, you will collaborate closely with design and test engineers to cultivate a thorough understanding of subsystem behavior, which is crucial for the development and maturation of system requirements. You will participate actively in system-level design architecture, analysis, and test planning, ensuring that all system-level requirements, interfaces, and verification strategies are robust and aligned with implementation.Positions are located within the Defense Technologies Engineering Division (DTED) of the Engineering Directorate, supporting the Weapon Technologies and Engineering (WTE) Program under the Strategic Deterrence (SD) Directorate.This role may offer a hybrid work schedule, allowing for a blend of in-person and virtual work, providing flexibility to work from home a few days each week.

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory seeks a Mechanical Cognizant Systems Engineer to join its team in Livermore, CA. This entry-level position focuses on supporting mechanical systems within nuclear facilities that play a critical role in national security projects. Role overview This role centers on ensuring the safe and reliable operation of mechanical systems. Responsibilities include monitoring system performance, assisting with maintenance activities, and supporting compliance with safety protocols. Key responsibilities Support day-to-day operation of mechanical systems in nuclear facilities Assist with troubleshooting and resolving technical issues Help maintain safety and operational standards Requirements Entry-level engineering experience or education Interest in mechanical systems and facility operations Commitment to safety and national security objectives