Scientist II

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the worlds leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

General Atomics Electromagnetics Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated individual to join our team located in Rancho Bernardo, CA in the Nuclear Technology and Materials (NTM) Division. This position involves operating a wide range of analytical techniques to characterize advanced materials as well as operating chemical reactors and thermal processing equipment to produce preceramic polymers and ceramic composite materials.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate and maintain a wide range of analytical instruments to characterize advanced materials
• Operate chemical reactor systems and perform polymer purification operations
• Operate thermal processing equipment to produce ceramics and ceramic matrix composites
• Maintain up to date knowledge in the field of ceramic forming polymers, ceramic composite materials, and analytical techniques
• Document and communicate findings and results through reports, summaries, and technical presentations.
• Work safely in accordance with established operating procedures and practices
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelors or masters degree in a scientific or related discipline and a minimum of two or more years of scientific experience with a bachelors degree. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Experience with a wide range of analytical techniques is highly desirable: chromatography (SEC, GPC, HPLC), elemental analysis (ICP-OES, ICP-MS, inert gas fusion, combustion), electron microscopy (SEM, TEM, EDS, WDS, auger, specimen preparation), optical microscopy, thermal analysis (DSC, TGA, MP, LFA), rheology, x-ray diffraction (XRD), mechanical testing (four point bend, tensile testing, etc.)
• Strong laboratory skills are desirable air-free synthesis; gloveboxes, reaction heating/cooling systems, refluxing, distillation, solvent removal, vacuum and pressurized filtration methodologies, organic synthesis, inorganic synthesis, purification (extractions, crystallization etc.)
• Requires strong communication skills ability to convey complex technical concepts to a broad audience
• The ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security clearance is required