OverviewAt PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.
Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.
The National Security Directorate (NSD) drives science-based, mission-focused solutions to take on complex, real-world threats to our nation and the world.
The Physical Detection Systems and Deployment Division, part of the National Security Directorate, delivers policy-informed technology solutions by removing barriers to real-world implementation. We strive to understand end-user environments to transition technology from the developmental stage to deployment. Our diverse expertise in operational systems provides tools, technologies, and approaches for combating a range of threats, both at home and in more than 100 countries around the globe.
The Disruptive Technologies (DT) group focuses on the development of detection systems and data analysis techniques for a variety of missions ranging from nuclear explosion detection to deployed RF imaging systems. Projects within the research group involve applied projects in support of national security missions across a range of detection systems.
The DT group is seeking a junior software engineer to contribute to a wide variety of research, development, testing, and evaluation efforts involving radiation detection, RF imaging, and other systems in support of national security applications. This position will provide software engineering in support of efforts predominantly focused on developing innovative software in support of sensor systems that include detecting, locating, and identifying radioactive material; exploiting RF signals; and, RF imaging. Critical characteristics to the operation and measurement of complex systems are automation, data acquisition, graphical user interfaces, along with on-board and post data analysis.
The ideal candidate is a well-organized, self-starter, with a high capacity for attention to detail, and interest in working on applied, national security focused projects.
The candidate will work as a technical contributor receiving guidance from senior scientists and engineers. They will be responsible for performing the following technical tasks with the level of quality, timeliness, and cost to meet required project and sponsor expectations.
Responsibilities include:
- Implementation of analysis and algorithms in software for measurement systems
- Design of graphical user interfaces for various applications
- Development of control software for various sensor systems
- Development of device drivers for various sensors which integrate into the existing client/server architecture used for automation and control
- Testing and debugging of software related to analysis and system development
- Apply current and new software technologies to mission areas
- Support other interdisciplinary staff in troubleshooting systems in laboratory space
- Contribute to proposals, embrace expectations for quality, safety, and security
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
BS/BA in software engineering, computer science, or equivalent degree
The successful candidate should have a working knowledge of programming in C++ and development of device drivers to be used as part of an automation library
Effective written and oral communication is required for this position as well as strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively on diverse, multidisciplinary teams
The candidate must be an effective problem solver, should be creative, and must demonstrate the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced loosely-structured organization under conditions of minimal guidance and problem definition
Demonstrated skills in C++11
Linux operating system environment
- Hardware automation and control
- Python
- Scripting languages (Bash, JavaScript)
- Multi-threaded/Asynchronous application development
- Graphical User Interface design (HTML, CSS)
- Continuous Integration (GitLab, Bamboo)
- Version control system (such as git)
- SQL Database
- Data science or analysis
- Experience working safely in a laboratory environment
Hazardous Working Conditions/Environment- Laboratory work with systems involving minor risks such as vacuum, pressurized gases, cryogenics, radiation sources, and control/measurement systems
- Occasional travel
Additional InformationThis position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.
Requirements:
- U.S. Citizenship
- Background Investigation: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter in accordance with 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.
- Drug Testing: All Security Clearance positions are Testing Designated Positions, which means that the candidate selected is subject to pre-employment and random drug testing. In addition, applicants must be able to demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the requisite Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP).
Note: Applicants will be considered ineligible for security clearance processing by the U.S. Department of Energy until non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for 12 months can be demonstrated.
Testing Designated PositionThis position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP). The candidate selected for this position will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing for illegal drugs, including marijuana, consistent with the Controlled Substances Act and the PNNL Workplace Substance Abuse Program.
About PNNLPacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!
At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.
Commitment to Excellence and Equal Employment OpportunityOur laboratory is committed to fostering a work environment where all individuals are treated with fairness and respect while solving critical challenges in fundamental sciences, national security, and energy resiliency. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), protected veteran status, and any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local laws.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures and in employment. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, contact us at careers@pnnl.gov.
Drug Free WorkplacePNNL is committed to a drug-free workplace supported by Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP) and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs.
If you are offered employment at PNNL, you must pass a drug test prior to commencing employment. PNNL complies with federal law regarding illegal drug use. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you test positive for any illegal controlled substance, including marijuana, your offer of employment will be withdrawn.
Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility RequirementsIn accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, new employees are required to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO)risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.
Mandatory RequirementsPlease be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the foreign government of a country DOE has identified as a “country of risk” without explicit approval by DOE and Battelle. If you are offered a position at PNNL and currently have any affiliation with the government of one of these countries, you will be required to disclose this information and recuse yourself of that affiliation or receive approval from DOE and Battelle prior to your first day of employment.
Rockstar RewardsEmployees and their families are offered medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, health savings account, flexible spending accounts, basic life insurance, disability insurance*, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, tuition assistance, supplemental parental bonding leave**, surrogacy and adoption assistance, and fertility support. Employees are automatically enrolled in our company funded pension plan* and may enroll in our 401k savings plan. Employees may accrue up to 120 vacation hours per year and may receive ten paid holidays per year.
* Research Associates excluded.
**Once eligibility requirements are met.
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Notice to ApplicantsPNNL lists the full pay range for the position in the job posting. Starting pay is calculated from the minimum of the pay range and actual placement in the range is determined based on an individual’s relevant job-related skills, qualifications, and experience. This approach is applicable to all positions, with the exception of positions governed by collective bargaining agreements and certain limited-term positions which have specific pay rules.
As part of our commitment to fair compensation practices, we do not ask for or consider current or past salaries in making compensation offers at hire. Instead, our compensation offers are determined by the specific requirements of the position, prevailing market trends, applicable collective bargaining agreements, pay equity for the position type, and individual qualifications and skills relevant to the performance of the position.
Minimum SalaryUSD $81,300.00/Yr.
Maximum SalaryUSD $119,500.00/Yr.
