Nondestructive Assay Subject Matter Expert and Analyst

Job Description

We have an opening for a Nondestructive Assay Subject Matter Expert (SME) and Analyst. You will provide original solutions and develop innovative methods to solve complex and unique Nondestructive Assay (NDA) problems using specialized knowledge and requiring in-depth analysis. You will perform gamma ray isotopic analysis, statistical analysis for measurement control, and propagation of variance. There may also be opportunities for the advancement of knowledge to the NDA community through collaboration in the development of international NDA standards. This position programmatically supports the Security Organization’s NNSA NA-70 and is part of the Nuclear Material Control and Accountability (MC&A) Group in the Security Organization within the Operations and Business Directorate.

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 

• Provide specialized and in-depth technical analysis, using advanced knowledge to resolve complex gamma ray, neutron, and calorimetric Nondestructive Assay (NDA) problems.
• Perform gamma ray isotopic analysis using multiple analysis codes of spectra for unique isotopes in complex and challenging compositions.
• Provide statistical analysis of NDA instrument performance to establish measurement control parameters to ensure measurement validity.
• Develop, certify, implement, and maintain NDA instrument procedures as well as provide instrument and procedure on-the-job training (OJT) and mentoring.
• Provide MC&A oversight, audit, and performance testing of NDA laboratory operations.
• Interact independently with LLNL NDA laboratory staff and MC&A staff at other NNSA/DOE sites with minimal LLNL MC&A direction.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the SES.4 level

• Establish and direct activities to implement solutions to highly complex and not well-defined NDA problems as subject matter expert to enable Laboratory nuclear material operations by assuring MC&A requirements are met with consultative direction from MC&A.
• Collaborate with high level MC&A and NDA technical personnel and senior managers at other sites.
• Represent LLNL at NDA collaborative consensus standards writing committees (e.g., ASTM international, Institute of Nuclear Material Management, American National Standards Institute, etc.)

Qualifications

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Master’s degree in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant previous experience.
• Experience with and significant knowledge of radiation detection instrumentation, gamma ray isotopic analysis methods, and experience with in-depth technical analysis using advanced knowledge of NDA measurement methods for gamma-ray, neutron, and calorimetric systems and instrumentation.
• Advanced knowledge and experience using statistical methods for establishing measurement control criteria that can be applied to NDA measurement system instrumentation.
• Significant knowledge and experience involving assurance activities such as performance testing and assessments, as well as documenting deficiencies and establishing corrective actions.
• Significant experience developing procedural documentation and ability to perform on-the-job training using advanced verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Ability to become a Certified Fissile Material Handler, which requires becoming medically qualified to wear respiratory and other personal protective equipment.
• Ability to secure and maintain certification in the Select Agent Human Reliability Program (SAHRP), which includes physical and psychological assessment, and random drug and alcohol testing.

Additional qualifications at the SES.4 level 

• Subject matter expert knowledge and substantial experience with highly advanced concepts of multiple NDA techniques.
• Expert level application of skills, knowledge, and abilities to develop creative solutions to highly complex or novel NDA issues (e.g., inhomogeneous, unique, or complex isotopic compositions).
• Expert communication skills to advise senior management and/or external entities.

Qualifications We Desire

• Doctoral degree in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or related field.
• Technical lead or supervisory authority experience.
• Certified DOE (Department of Energy) National Training Center (NTC) instructor.
• Certified in Technical Management and experience providing audit and oversight.

Pay Range: $175,530 - $267,060 Annually

$175,530 - $222,564 Annually at the SES.3

$210,630 - $267,060 Annually at the SES.4

This is the lowest to highest salary range in good faith 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.

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

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

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026 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 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.

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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.

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