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.
General Atomics Inertial Fusion Technology (IFT) division designs, manufactures and characterized first-of-a-kind precision components in support of the national labs, fusion and science technologies. Components are manufactured and measured on a variety of highly specialized and precise equipment and are often millimeter in scale with micron-sized features and tolerances.
We currently have an opening for a Technician in our Inertial Fusion Technology (IFT) division within the Energy group.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - Support the research, development, fabrication, operation, and testing of complex laboratory and experimental equipment and products, including vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, specialized mechanical test systems, electrochemical systems, electrical/electronic controls, and measurement systems.
- Operate specialized measurement and process-control equipment, including pressure gauges, gas-flow monitors, temperature monitors, helium leak detectors, and related instrumentation.
- Follow cleanroom protocols while performing daily responsibilities.
- Handle and measure small parts ranging from millimeter to micron scale.
- Make detailed observations during measurement and fabrication processes, and document findings for internal staff.
- Design, fabricate, and assemble custom devices and components compatible with vacuum, vapor deposition, and electrochemical deposition processes under general guidance from scientific staff.
- Perform preventive and corrective maintenance, with limited supervision, on equipment associated with physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, vacuum systems, and electrochemical deposition processes.
- Use schematics, diagrams, written and verbal instructions, layouts, and defined plans to determine methods and procedures for assembling complex systems, including vacuum hardware and electrical cabling.
- Handle hazardous materials, when required for equipment maintenance, while following applicable material safety protocols, federal and state regulations, and GA work procedures.
- Develop practical solutions to complex technical problems, including assisting with the design of specialized components. May design moderately complex equipment.
- Initiate and support the procurement of standard materials, services, and parts required for testing, fabrication, maintenance, and equipment operation.
- Serve as a technical liaison within the work area as needed.
- Work safely under established operating procedures and practices.
- Perform 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 associate's degree or equivalent with seven or more years of experience. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
- Proficiency with computer operations and software applications relevant to laboratory, fabrication, maintenance, and documentation activities.
- Ability to interpret detailed instructions, drawings, schematics, and technical specifications.
- Ability to work in a cleanroom and laboratory environment requiring extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw appropriate conclusions.
- Ability to diagnose complex mechanical, vacuum, electrical, and instrumentation problems and implement practical solutions.
- Strong communication skills, including the ability to write, record, and report precise technical information.
- Experience using manual machining equipment, including lathes, vertical mills, chop saws, drill presses, and welding equipment.
- Ability to bench grind, shape, and sharpen tooling for machining a range of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and molybdenum.
- Experience with general laboratory maintenance, including piping, filters, instrumentation, and equipment installation.
- Ability to read and understand piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q security clearance.