Scientist I – Remote
The Scientist I role at Confidential Client involves supporting the production and characterization of precision capsules used in high energy density plasma physics experiments. The position requires operating specialized coating equipment, assisting in fabrication and data analysis, and ensuring quality and safety compliance within a high-technology research environment. This entry-level role offers hands-on experience in advanced materials production and collaboration with national laboratory projects.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Scientific & QA.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Scientist I to join a team supporting high-energy-density plasma physics experiments and capsule production. This role participates in precision component fabrication and characterization (including ultra-spherical, thin-wall, hollow capsules) and supports production, data recording, and quality documentation. This is a remote (telecommute) position supporting work related to San Diego, CA, and requires willingness to work with hazardous materials and follow cleanroom protocols. Employment type: Contract / Full-time.
What You’ll Do
- Operate glow discharge polymer (GDP) coaters and related equipment; participate in capsule production in the coating laboratory.
- Assist in execution, analysis, investigation and resolution of routine capsule fabrication and characterization tasks.
- Provide production support, product assurance, and documentation to the target fabrication team for national laser facility experiments.
- Assist with installation and assembly of precision equipment and metrology stations to measure and deliver components.
- Interface with automated control systems and programs (e.g., LabVIEW) to support equipment operation.
- Collect, analyze, and record production and test data for polymer, metal, and diamond capsules; maintain production travelers, inspection records, dimensional characterization, and other characterization outputs.
- Prepare tables, plots, written reports, and presentations summarizing results for internal audiences.
- Interpret instructions to plan production sequences and suggest process improvements to increase yield, efficiency, and reliability.
- Work safely, following established operating procedures and hazardous-material handling protocols.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Typically requires a Bachelor's degree in a scientific or related discipline (Physics, Chemical Engineering, Nano Engineering, Materials Science preferred). Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted.
- Basic understanding of scientific principles and ability to apply and adapt standard techniques and diagnostics.
- Experience or familiarity with plasma coating processes (preferred).
- Experience with LabVIEW, FileMaker Pro, or other laboratory/automation programming tools is desirable.
- Strong communication skills and proficiency with MS Office for documentation and reporting.
- Awareness of cleanroom protocols and hazardous material safe handling; must be willing to work with hazardous materials.
- Able to work independently and in a team; flexible to work extended hours as required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q clearance is required.
Preferred / Nice-to-Have
- Hands-on experience operating GDP coaters or related coating/metrology equipment.
- Prior exposure to target fabrication or high-energy-density laboratory environments.
Location & Work Arrangement
- Remote / Telecommute support for operations centered in San Diego, CA (work may require coordination with on-site teams and occasional on-site work as needed). Applicant must be able to meet any location-specific requirements and clearance processes.
Compensation & Employment Type
- Estimated pay: $66,123 per year (estimated).
- Employment Type: Contract and/or Full-time (per the client’s classification).
Notes on Clearance & Safety
- Role may require ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q clearance.
- Candidate must be willing to work with hazardous materials and adhere to safety and regulatory procedures.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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