Group Leader for an analysis group within the Applied Engineering Mechanics (AEM) Section

Job Description

We have an opening for a Group Leader for an analysis group within the Applied Engineering Mechanics (AEM) Section. The group uses advanced, nonlinear finite element analysis codes developed at LLNL to evaluate structural and material responses to combined thermal, quasi-static or dynamic, and hydrodynamic loads under time-dependent kinematic conditions to support Laboratory national security missions. You will provide administrative leadership for the group and contribute to its technical and strategic leadership. This position is in the Computational Engineering Division (CED), within the Engineering Directorate.

Telework will be authorized at LLNL's discretion, based on policy, security, program, and performance requirements—not guaranteed, and subject to change (including onsite work requirements) at any time.

This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

You will

• Provide administrative leadership, supervision, direction, guidance, and support to group members, as well as advanced technical and strategic direction, guidance, and support to enable the accomplishment of project/program goals and objectives.
• Recruit, hire, and develop staff to meet Section, Division, and programmatic staffing needs through active engagement in hiring, career development, performance and salary management, mentoring, and coaching activities.
• Leverage advanced technical knowledge to provide and review engineering analysis support for the enduring and future weapons stockpile and other national security related mission areas, including guiding the design, testing, modification, and optimization of mechanical components and systems.
• Ensure quality of work and promote effective teamwork within the group by planning workloads, remaining aware of complex technical goals, and coordinating with project leaders to track progress on performance goals.
• Participate in Section and Division meetings and activities and plan and conduct monthly Group meetings to influence technical directions, Division strategy, and employee engagement and compliance.
• Interface with other groups within CED to identify and promote collaborative efforts. Collaborate with project leaders within Laboratory programs to anticipate and meet technical needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities, at the SEL.4 level

• Set broad project vision and strategy and influence technical direction for self and others.
• Provide subject matter expertise in engineering analysis for programs at meetings, briefings, design reviews, and committee activities both internal and external to the Laboratory.
• Develop creative technical strategies that influence decisions and investments made by senior management and external customers.

Qualifications

• This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance or active Top Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at the time of hire.

• Master’s degree in Mechanical, Civil, or Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.

• Advanced experience and knowledge of engineering analysis in one or more of the following areas: structural mechanics, elasticity, plasticity, material constitutive behavior, failure mechanics, rigid body mechanics and dynamics, heat transfer (conduction, convection, and radiation), explosive material analysis, hydrodynamics, radiation sciences, aero sciences.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and promote technical projects, including formal design reviews, technical presentations, and safety assessments.

• Advanced experience applying government or commercial finite element tools, such as ParaDyn, Diablo, ALE3D, Abaqus, Ansys, and/or other mechanics/multi-physics engineering analysis code suites, to assess the nonlinear response of complex systems.

• Advanced written and verbal communication skills, specifically the ability to explain and present technical information, as well as to advise employees and all levels of management.

• Experience working in a team environment with technical and programmatic leadership, as well as managing multiple concurrent tasks and deliverables.

• Advanced interpersonal and listening skills to effectively collaborate and lead in a team environment.

• Additional qualifications at the SEL.4 level

• Subject matter expertise in one or more of the following topical areas: nonlinear structural mechanics, material constitutive behavior, failure mechanics, rigid body dynamics, heat transfer, explosive material analysis, hydrodynamics, radiation sciences, aero sciences.

• Significant experience in the leadership of technical personnel, projects, project planning, and execution, including applying and developing creative solutions to highly complex problems.

• Expert communication, facilitation, interpersonal, and collaboration skills necessary to effectively lead a team, present and explain information, and influence and advise senior management, while positively representing the Program and the Laboratory.

Qualifications We Desire

• PhD in Mechanical, Civil, or Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field, or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Significant experience collaborating with the ParaDyn, Diablo, and/or ALE3D code development teams to improve analysis methods and capabilities.
• Experience in nuclear weapon system design, requirements, and materials.
• Knowledge of Laboratory management and structure including supervision, budget, policies, and processes.
• Ability to mentor, develop, and encourage team members.
• Experience in the hiring and career development of employees. Experience with performance reviews, alignment, and salary management processes.

Pay Range

$189,660 - $288,396 Annually

$189,660 - $240,528 Annually for the SEL.3 level

$227,430 - $288,396 Annually for the SEL.4 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.

Additional Information

LI-Hybrid

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!
• Flexible

Benefits

• Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Our values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values

Security Clearance

This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance or active Top Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at time of hire.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

Wireless and Medical Devices

Per the Department of Energy (DOE), Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory must meet certain restrictions with the use and/or possession of mobile devices in Limited Areas. Depending on your job duties, you may be required to work in a Limited Area where you are not permitted to have a personal and/or laboratory mobile device in your possession. This includes, but not limited to cell phones, tablets, fitness devices, wireless headphones, and other Bluetooth/wireless enabled de