Metallographer/Fractographer - Staff Scientist
Core
Perform moderate to complex metallography, fractography, and materials characterization (including failure analysis) for national security programs, handling hazardous and radioactive materials.
Role type
Staff Scientist (SES.3/SES.4) Materials Characterization
Builds
High-quality failure analysis results and data for LLNL programs and principal investigators
Domain
National Security / Materials Science / Metallurgy
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
Metallography, Fractography, Sample preparation (sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing), Optical microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Hardness testing, Failure analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Focused ion beam (FIB), Electropolishing, Ion milling, Vacuum coating, White-light interferometry, Density measurements, Instrument maintenance, Safety documentation
Preferred skills
Advanced sample preparation techniques, Automated equipment operation, Weld/braze analysis, Thermal spray analysis, Heat treating, Designing/fabricating fixtures, Quality control practices (ISO/IEC 17025), Theoretical understanding of materials science methods
Technologies
SEM, EBSD, EDS, WDS, XRD, TEM, FIB, Optical Microscope, Hardness testers, Tensile testers, White-light interferometer
Responsibilities
Perform sample sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing; Conduct macro- and micro-hardness testing; Operate SEM, EBSD, EDS, and WDS; Lead development of advanced sample preparation techniques; Coordinate failure analysis inputs; Maintain sample traceability; Train staff in specialized metallurgical methods; Serve as primary technical contact for projects
Seniority
Staff Scientist (SES.3/SES.4), Subject Matter Expert