Xray Diffraction Scientist
Niskayuna, NY, US
Niskayuna, NY, US 
2026-07-29 01:34:06
Engineering & Science
About Us
Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today!
Job Description
The X-ray Diffraction Scientist will be responsible for performing materials characterization at Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory in support of the United States Navy. Primary duties include conducting X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, analyzing structural data, and interpreting results to inform material selections, production engineering processes, and fleet applications. The successful candidate will collaborate with materials scientists, production engineers, and fleet support teams to solve complex challenges and enhance the performance of materials used in demanding naval and nuclear environments. Meticulous documentation, technical reporting, and an ability to communicate findings to multidisciplinary teams are essential aspects of this role.
Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill
Preferred Skills
• Experience supporting Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense, or Nuclear Navy programs
• Familiarity with additional materials characterization tools (e.g., SEM, TEM, EDS, hardness testing)
• Advanced data analysis experience, including software for XRD data interpretation
• Background in production engineering or practical experience supporting fleet operations
• Familiarity with ceramics, metallic alloys, and other materials relevant to nuclear environments
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary technical initiatives or projects
• Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Mechanical Metallurgy, Ceramic Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated proficiency with X-ray diffraction techniques, including measurement and analysis
• Strong understanding of crystal structures, materials characterization methods, and phase identification
• Experience working in a laboratory or research environment, preferably in an applied engineering context
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with capability to prepare technical reports
Compensation and Benefits
- Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
- Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
- 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
- Personal & Medical Time Off
- Paid Parental Leave
- Flexible Work Schedules
- Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
- Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Wellness Program
- Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!
Pay Range
Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.
All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.
Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.