The Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is seeking a talented Analytical Mechanical Engineer to develop, deliver, characterize, integrate and operate a suite of new instruments dedicated to expand the horizon of femtosecond science.

LCLS is an X-ray Free Electron (FEL) facility, operated by Stanford University at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, on behalf of the Department of Energy / Office of Science. This facility provides world-leading scientific capabilities to a global user community, covering a very broad research portfolio that includes the development of advanced materials and chemical catalysts for clean energy systems; drug discovery for modern pharmaceuticals; and fundamental studies of astrophysical phenomena. There are 7 independent instruments currently in operation that are specifically designed to utilize the unique beam characteristics of the LCLS to meet these scientific objectives. The evolution of science and experimental techniques on these instruments, along with upgrades in the x-ray FEL source, will continue to challenge design methods, materials, and instrumentation for the foreseeable future. The new scientific forefronts that LCLS provides, and the advances that LCLS II will deliver, necessitate new and advanced high rep-rate instrument systems.

As a member of the LCLS Engineering Division, the Analytical Mechanical Engineer will functionally be part of the Mechanical Engineering Instrument Development Group in the LCLS Mechanical Engineering Department. Reporting to the Group leader, he/she will be a key engineer for the development of new instruments to support the upgraded LCLS-II FEL.

We are looking for a Mechanical Engineer with sound skills in thermal analysis, vibration analysis, problem solving, and analysis of mechanical stress/deformation on X-ray optic systems used within Free Electron Laser (FEL) instruments. The Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for mechanical and multi-physics analysis of MHz-rep rate Free Electron Laser (FEL) instruments, X-ray optics (mirror, monochromator, focusing optics) and systems. He/she will lead related mechanical and physics experiments to validate analysis results and demonstrate the performance and feasibility of innovative engineering physics ideas and designs. He/she will also provide mechanical analysis support for other engineers working in the LCLS instruments.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Education & Experience:

  • M.Sc in mechanical engineering or related fields (precision mechanics, applied physics, material science, optics), minimum 5 years of experience in the field of mechanical and thermo-mechanical engineering for Synchrotron light sources and/or Free Electron Lasers.
  • Demonstrated experience in analysis and modeling of high precision X-ray optics and X-ray components (temperature, thermal-mechanical deformation and stress).
  • Demonstrated experience in mechanical vibration modeling, testing, and analysis.
  • Solid knowledge and experience with material science, especially materials for X-ray optics, high-heat load components.
  • Effective knowledge and capability to carry out mechanical, optical, precision mechanical and material science experiments.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts.

Desired Skills and qualifications:

  • Ph.D in mechanical engineering or related fields (precision mechanics, applied physics, material science, optics).
  • Experience with optical testing on x-ray beamlines.
  • Experience with high precision X-ray optics metrology.
  • Experience with stress and strain modeling of multilayer optics.