Computational Physicist

We have multiple openings for Computational Physicists aiming to improve national security through the development of simulation codes for world class supercomputing architectures. You will collaborate as part of an interdisciplinary team in advancing state-of-the-art physics simulation capabilities. Applications may include inertial confinement fusion, high-energy density physics, nuclear/conventional weapons, or nuclear counterterrorism. Our projects span the range from smaller, focused research codes/modules to multi-physics, multi-application production codes.  These positions are in the Design Physics Division within the Strategic Deterrence Directorate.   

These positions may offer a hybrid schedule, which includes the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week, after a probationary period. The specifics of the hybrid schedule, including the exact number of days required in the office and virtual work options may vary based on the needs of the team and the organization.

These positions 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.  

In this role, you will  

• Build simulation tools using modern software practices as part of a team;
• Develop models and algorithms to support physics capabilities for a diverse application space; 
• Support users of your simulation tools; 
• Share results through conferences, reports/publications, and potential interactions with collaborators; 
• Recognize and support plans to promote and foster a culture of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability within the workplace;
• Perform other tasks as assigned. 

Additional responsibilities at the mid-career (SES.3) level 

• Develop and critically assess physics capabilities to support applications requiring advanced simulation tools to solve complex problems;
• Collaborate as a technical expert on multidisciplinary teams;
• Set specific technical strategies to achieve project goals. 

Qualifications

• Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship;
• PhD or equivalent level of proficiency in physics, mathematics, engineering, or related field;
• Proficiency in developing scientific applications in Python, C/C++, or FORTRAN;
• Proficiency in converting theory into computational models, implementing computational models, or evaluating computational algorithms and methods for their applicability;
• Effective verbal and written communication skills and experience authoring high-quality reports/publications and delivering effective technical presentations. 

Additional qualifications at the mid-career (SES.3) level 

• Advanced knowledge of physics, mathematics, engineering, or a related field;
• Significant professional programming experience; 
• Experience in leading, mentoring, and/or collaborating within teams; 
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills and a demonstrated record of delivering top-quality research in relevant areas of science and engineering. 

Qualifications We Desire 

• Expertise in one or more science disciplines, such as shock hydrodynamics, solid/fluid mechanics, materials science, particle transport, radiation transport, nuclear physics, plasma physics, or physical chemistry;
• Proficiency in developing and supporting multi-dimensional numerical simulation;
• Proficiency in developing scientific simulations for high-performance and/or heterogeneous computing systems (e.g., use of MPI, OpenMP, Cuda/HIP, or other HPC technologies);
• Proficiency in developing advanced technical solutions (e.g., numerical algorithms);
• Proficiency in working in a multidisciplinary team-research environment, demonstrating creativity and initiative in addressing challenging problems;
• Demonstrated ability/commitment to promote and value inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability principles in the workplace. 

Please include a personalized cover letter with your application, highlighting your qualifications and why you're interested in this position.