Scientist I

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for an entry-level Scientist to work within our Inertial Fusion Technology (IFT) group located in San Diego, California. IFT designs, manufactures, and characterized first-of-a-kind precision components in support of the national labs, fusion, and science technologies. The successful candidate will become a member of the National Ignition Facility Capsule Production team in GA’s IFT Division. This position, under close supervision with specific detailed instructions on routine tasks, assists the scientific staff with the development, production, and documentation of materials required for high energy density plasma physics experiments conducted by National Laboratory scientists. These materials include, but are not limited to; ultra-spherical, thin wall, hollow, capsules or balloons constructed of atomically doped plastics, beryllium, or high-density carbon (i.e. diamond).

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operates glow discharge polymer (GDP) coaters and related equipment. Participate in capsule production within the coating laboratory.
• Assists in the execution, analysis, investigation and solution of routine capsule fabrication and characterization activities.
• Provides production, product assurance, and documentation support to the target fabrication team to enable cutting-edge high-energy density experiments at the national laser facilities.
• Assists in the installation and assembly of precision equipment and metrology stations to measure and deliver components.
• Interfaces with control systems and programs for automated equipment utilizing LabVIEW or other equivalent programs.
• Assists the technical staff in the production, analysis, and recording of data for polymer, metal, and diamond capsules. This includes order specifications and statuses, production travelers, records of inspection, dimensional characterization, and other characterization methods.
• Interprets general instructions to plan production sequences and implement knowledge gained to improve production reliability.
• Documents findings and implemented solutions and communicates results to project staff. Revises record systems for accuracy and content, and amends procedures to improve yield, efficiency, and quality of the product.
• Records and summarizes production and test data using automated systems; prepares tables, plots, and creates written reports and summarizes information for presentations to peers and supervisors in oral and written reports.
• Works in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.


 

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a Bachelors degree in a scientific or related discipline. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Prefer degrees in Physics, Chemical Engineering, Nano Engineering, Materials Science.
• Experience with plasma coating processes is preferred.
• Must demonstrate a basic understanding of scientific concepts, principles, and theory and the ability to follow and apply basic scientific knowledge, adapt standard techniques, and utilize the required diagnostics, tools, and equipment, while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
• Must be able to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately throughout an evolving environment.
• Good communication, MS Office Suite, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other professionals, to produce appropriate documentation, and to present results to a limited internal audience.
• Desired basic knowledge and awareness of hazardous material safe handling protocols and cleanroom protocols.
• Must be willing to work with hazardous materials.
• Experience with Filemaker Pro Database, Labview, and/or other laboratory and automation programming languages. Experience may be gained in university, industrial, internship or other settings in which data are either collected or presented.
• Must be able to work both independently and on a team. Able to work extended hours as required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q clearance.