Laser & Photonics Scientist

The Extreme Light, Matter, and Fusion Directorate (LMF), formerly the NIF & Photon Science Directorate, is seeking a Laser & Photonics Scientist to support the design, prototyping, and deployment of cutting-edge technologies for high-power and high-energy laser systems, including the National Ignition Facility (NIF). In this critical role, you will provide hands-on scientific support to improve laser technology and implement new capabilities that increase NIF’s power, energy, and precision. You will collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technicians as a key member of the Laser Science and Technology (LST) organization, helping advance the capabilities of this flagship experimental facility of the National Nuclear Security Administration within the U.S. Department of Energy. This position is within the Laser Science and Technology organization in the Extreme Light, Matter, and Fusion Principal Associate Directorate. In this role you will Work under limited direction with moderate responsibility, applying comprehensive knowledge and independent judgment to determine methods, recommend improvements within established frameworks, and support project and organizational goals. Perform moderately complex to complex hands-on work with laser and electro-optical components, including alignment, evaluation, calibration, troubleshooting, data analysis, data archiving, and system documentation. Utilize computer-based data acquisition and control systems to efficiently collect and analyze experimental data, supporting accurate results and informed technical decisions. Participate in the design, planning, and execution of laboratory experiments, ensuring efficient procedures, accurate data collection, and reliable results. Utilize technical software to analyze and visualize data, perform ray tracing and tolerance analyses, and simulate physical phenomena. Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and technicians to coordinate resources, plan experiments, document research, develop deliverables, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and present results at scientific conferences. Specify and procure specialized laboratory equipment and supplies to support experimental requirements and ensure efficient laboratory operations. Perform other duties as assigned. Additional job responsibilities, at the SES.3 level Function independently with minimal direction, applying advanced knowledge and judgment to establish objectives, prioritize multiple tasks, allocate resources, and develop innovative methods and technologies. Conduct and collaborate on technical efforts, including responsibility for budgets, schedules, deliverables, and resource allocation. Define and prioritize tasks to ensure that programmatic objectives are achieved efficiently and on schedule. Contribute to the development of new and advanced program opportunities, including research proposals and interactions with potential sponsors and customers, with minimal direction. Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship. Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Engineering or the equivalent combination of education and related experience. Comprehensive knowledge and experience performing experiments with optics, lasers, and laser science. Experience planning and coordinating experiments, including defining objectives, developing test plans, coordinating resources, and ensuring efficient execution. Ability to work independently and meet deadlines. Proficient verbal and written communication skills necessary to interact with a multi-disciplinary research team, author technical and scientific reports, publications, papers, and presentations. Additional qualifications at the SES.3 level Advanced verbal and written communication skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment and present and explain technical information and provide advice to management. Significant experience working independently and as a member of a multidisciplinary team, and ability to lead advanced research and development activities. Advanced experience performing experiments with optics, lasers, and laser science. Qualifications we desire Master’s or Ph.D. degree in Physics or Engineering. Experience in engineering or physics laboratories, including data acquisition, laser diagnostics, and control system development/utilization. Experience in planning and directing work with technical objectives, estimating effort, and setting milestones. Experience in the use of scientific software to model laser physics performance. Experience with high-power laser diodes. Pay Range $146,340 - $222,564 Annually $146,340 - $185,544 Annually for the SES.2 level $175,530 - $222,564 Annually for 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. #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! 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