Mechanical Engineer Research Associate

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Energy Storage & Distributed Resources Division has an opening for a Mechanical Engineer Research Associate to join the team.

In this exciting role, you will work with the Laser Technologies Group in the Energy Storage and Distributed Resources Division at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Under direct supervision from their supervisor with step-by-step instructions, the Research Associate will perform research tasks and provide related research support to research projects led by scientific staff focused on setup, operation, and automation of laser and diagnostics equipment used in materials laser processing and manufacturing. The research tasks and support will be reviewed carefully; interactions are primarily with the direct supersvisor, with minimal contact with the supervisor’s collaborators. The goal of this research is to accelerate the discovery of next-generation materials with improved optical and wetting properties for applications in energy and nuclear security. This is a one-year term appointment.

What You Will Do:

• Carry out routine laboratory procedures for high throughput laser surface processing experiments.
• Assist staff in automation and communication between equipment such as laser fabrication and characterization stations. Work results will be provided directly to the supervisor.
• Collect datasets of emissivity and contact angle (wettability) data.
• Compile and plot  research data using Excel, Origin, Python, or other relevant software.
• Conduct laser processing and diagnostics data comparisons, and evaluate data to ensure they are properly sourced, categorized, and updated. 
• Communicate results effectively to the supervisor.
• Work safely in the laboratory, following LBNL Environmental Health and Safety guidelines

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Assist scientific staff with preparation of materials and coordination for research meetings, reviews, workshops and conferences.

What is Required:

• Bachelor's degree preferred and up to 1 year related experience.
• Excellent English language skills, both written and verbal. 
• Accuracy, attention to detail and good organization skills are essential.  
• Good analytical skills.
• Ability to effectively interact with team members.
• Familiarity with Microsoft PowerPoint, Word, Excel, Origin, Python.
• Familiarity with laser laboratory procedures.
• Familiarity with LabView.
• Good organization skills and ability to pay attention to detail.

Please apply by June 1, 2025 with the following application materials:

• Cover Letter
• Resume or CV

Notes:

• This is a full time, 1 year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
• This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
• The full salary range for this position is $25.14 - $38.94 / hour. The budgeted salary range that the Lab reasonably expects to pay for this position is $29.69 - $32.81 / hour. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, and certifications, and also aligned with the internal peer group.
• This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• This position is eligible for a flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work being the preferred modes. Hybrid work is a combination of teleworking and performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Starting May 7, a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.