Engineer Internal Fusion lab

Job Summary 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 a Chemical, Nano, or Mechanical Engineer to work within our Inertial Fusion Technology (IFT) group. The successful candidate will be responsible for fabrication and characterization of first-of-a-kind precision components in support of fusion ignition experiments and science technologies for the national labs. Components are manufactured and measured on a variety of highly-specialized and precise equipment and are typically millimeter in scale with micron-sized features and tolerances.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Works under general supervision with limited review to fabricate, characterize and deliver components that help enable cutting-edge experiments at laser facilities such as the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and OMEGA.
• Responsible for characterization and metrology of precision-fabricated sub-millimeter components with micron-sized features to within micron tolerances using x-ray, assembly and metrology stations.
• Characterization duties include operation of stereo microscopes, x-ray imaging microscopes, coordinate measurement and automated microscopes, ultra-precision micro balances and other highly-accurate metrology instruments.
• Activities include routine handling of fragile microspheres in a cleanroom environment.
• Communicates regularly with team and customers to relay design tolerances and iterate on design details, while considering available budget and resources.
• Works with resident staff and other engineering, scientific and technical personnel from a variety of laboratory institutions and fields.
• Records and summarizes production and test data; prepares tables, plots, and creates written reports. Able to organize data and suggest a course of action or test plan when necessary.
• Carries out multi-step inspection procedures and documents results.
• Designs, builds and/or procures necessary tools, fixtures, and components required to enhance handling and improve fabrication efficiencies.
• Diagnoses and corrects operational problems or trouble sources in equipment by implementing solutions.
• Responsible for quality assurance, packaging and shipment of precision components with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Revises work procedures for accuracy and content and amends procedures to improve yield, efficiency, and quality of the product.
• Works in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required

• Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering (likely Chemical, Nano, Mechanical) or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Must have analytical ability to read and understand detailed instructions, drawings, specifications, and procedures.
• Must have communication skills necessary to record precise information, reports, and presentations.
• Desired basic knowledge and awareness of hazardous material safe handling protocols and cleanroom protocols.
• Must be able to work both independently and on a team. Able to work extended hours as required. An EIT (Engineer in Training) certificate is desirable.