Laser-Matter Interaction Experimentalist

Job Description

We are seeking a Laser-Matter Interaction Experimentalist to support the development and execution of high-energy laser experiments at the Optical Sciences Laser (OSL) laboratory in support of LLNL’s energy and security missions. This position is part of the Extreme Light, Matter, and Fusion Directorate (LMF), formerly the NIF & Photon Science Directorate, home to the world’s most energetic laser.

OSL has hosted more than 20 years of high-energy optics research and development. Its two beamlines and four-plus target chambers have supported some of the most distinctive laser-damage and laser-material-interaction experiments in the world.

OSL experiments integrate optical engineering, laser physics, optical materials science, and hands-on operation of laser and plasma diagnostics, including high-speed cameras. In this role, you will plan and conduct experiments with an interdisciplinary team of laser scientists, optical and mechanical engineers, and technicians. A major focus of the position will be contributing to a multi-year experimental effort to design and evaluate a compact kJ-class spatial filter concept.

OSL has strong demand for shot time on the system, with experiments typically divided between approximately R&D in support of customer experiments and OSL system improvement efforts. Because of the complexity of the laser system, the cost of experiments, and the size of the team required to operate the laboratory, strong written and verbal communication skills are essential.

In this role, you will

• Contribute to the development of experimental campaigns exploring intense laser-matter interactions and high-energy laser component development.
• Contribute to hands-on alignment and commissioning of laser systems and plasma diagnostics, including high-speed cameras.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams that research, design, develop, integrate, field, and improve advanced high-energy laser systems, high-peak-power lasers, and high-average-power laser technologies.
• Apply established physics models and emerging technologies to experimental design and data analysis in support of evolving mission priorities.
• Contribute to technical tasks in the design, planning, and documentation of experimental campaigns, including shot request preparation, safety documentation, and post-shot analysis reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the SES.3 level

• Conduct technical tasks in the design and execution of experimental campaigns, including defining test objectives, experimental plans, and diagnostic requirements in coordination with program leadership.
• Collaborate in the development and incorporate new physics models, diagnostic techniques, and operational improvements that expand OSL experimental capability.
• Serve as a technical point of contact for experiments with internal customers and collaborators, ensuring alignment between experimental capabilities and programmatic needs.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior staff and technicians supporting OSL experiments.
• Prepare and deliver technical presentations to communicate results, project updates, and technical recommendations to internal teams and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• PhD in laser physics, applied physics, optical sciences, laser engineering, test engineering, or a related technical field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Broad experience with laser diagnostic sensors and electronics, including performance characteristics and limitations, and their use in optical diagnostic systems.
• Broad experience conducting high-energy or high-intensity laser experiments, including beam path alignment and integration of optical and plasma diagnostics.
• Broad experience analyzing experimental data from laser-matter interaction or laser-induced damage studies, including use of data reduction software and quantitative interpretation of results.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills necessary to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present technical information clearly.

Additional qualifications, at the SES.3 level

• Advanced experience with laser diagnostic sensors and electronics, including selection, performance optimization, and integration into optical diagnostic systems.
• Advanced experience independently designing and executing high-energy laser experiments, including target chamber configuration, beam path alignment, and integration of optical and plasma diagnostics in a multi-user experimental facility.
• Demonstrated ability to lead experimental tasks and coordinate with interdisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and technicians.
• Experience guiding, leading, and mentoring team members.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills necessary to collaborate effectively in a team environment and present technical information clearly.

Qualifications We Desire

• Experience with kJ-class laser technology.
• Experience in optical engineering and design and using Zemax, CODE V, FRED, or equivalent tools.
• Experience with laser system operation and alignment.
• Experience with experimental campaigns involving laser-matter interactions.
• Experience with laser-plasma diagnostics.
• Experience with high-speed camera operation.
• Experience with laser-induced damage phenomena.
• Experience designing and managing experiments in a multi-user scientific facility.
• Experience with laser timing systems.

Pay Range

$146,340 - $222,564 Annually

$146,340 - $185,544 Annually at the SES.2 level

$175,530 - $222,564 Annually at 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.

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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