National Ignition Facility and Photon Science Graduate Intern - Summer 2026
Job
LLNL
Livermore, CA (In Person)
$89,718 Salary, Full-Time
Review key factors to help you decide if the role fits your goals.
Pay Growth
?
out of 5
Not enough data
Not enough info to score pay or growth
Job Security
?
out of 5
Not enough data
Calculating job security score...
Total Score
85
out of 100
Average of individual scores
Skill Insights
Compare your current skills to what this opportunity needs—we'll show you what you already have and what could strengthen your application.
Job Description
Company DescriptionJoin us and make YOUR mark on the World!
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability. Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.
Job DescriptionThe National Ignition Facility and Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate has multiple openings for graduate level students and students who have received a bachelor's or master's degree to engage in practical research experiences to further their educational goals. You will have opportunities to work in a wide array of fields, such as lasers, laser-plasma physics, electro-optics, software development, and optical, x-ray, and nuclear instrument development and testing. For more information, please visit: https://lasers.llnl.gov/education/summer-scholar. References may be required.
You will Work alongside scientists conducting research at onsite laser and nuclear facilities in the areas of advanced laser development, laser plasma interactions, hydrodynamics, materials science, radiation physics and various advanced diagnostic systems.
Conduct research (experimental, theoretical, or modeling) in assigned areas, under close supervision.
Gather and analyze data or information in support of scientific research.
Communicate research results: document work, present and discuss findings.
Attend relevant seminars and prepare a poster for the Student Intern Poster Symposium.
Perform technical assignments of a basic degree of complexity and provide advanced technical support to scientist in scientific research and development projects.
Perform other duties as assigned.
QualificationsMust be a college or university student in good academic standing, enrolled in an accredited institution, and pursuing a Ph.D. or master's degree in engineering, physics, or a related field.
Demonstrated exposure through coursework or relevant experience with tools related to your field of study. For experimental work this can include data reduction and manipulation, image processing, computer-aided drafting, or similar; for theoretical/computational work this includes numerical methods and scientific programming languages (Python, MATLAB, etc.).A sustained record of outstanding academic performance.
Ability to work full time for ten to twelve weeks during the summer months.
Ability to apply basic engineering or scientific principles to solve technical problems.
Ability to present and communicate concepts and ideas.
Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment.
Experience working with personal computers and familiarity with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Qualifications We DesirePrior experience in physics or engineering laboratory settings for experimental assignments, and in cluster/high-performance computing or plasma physics codes for computational assignments.
GPA of 3.0 or above.
Pay Range $6,752 - $8,201 Monthly This position is under a step structure. Please note that the step placement is determined by your most recent completed academic year. Additional InformationAll your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
Holiday PaySick leave accrualIndividual 401(k) contributionsOur values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values Security ClearanceNone required. However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities. The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position. To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112. Pre-Employment Drug TestExternal 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 DevicesPer 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 devices. If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings. How to identify fake job advertisementsPlease be aware of recruitment scams where people or entities are misusing the name of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to post fake job advertisements. LLNL never extends an offer without a personal interview and will never charge a fee for joining our company. All current job openings are displayed on the Career Page under "Find Your Job" of our website. If you have encountered a job posting or have been approached with a job offer that you suspect may be fraudulent, we strongly recommend you do not respond.
To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf Equal Employment OpportunityWe are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.
Reasonable AccommodationOur goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request. California Privacy NoticeThe California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here.
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability. Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.
Job DescriptionThe National Ignition Facility and Photon Science (NIF&PS) Directorate has multiple openings for graduate level students and students who have received a bachelor's or master's degree to engage in practical research experiences to further their educational goals. You will have opportunities to work in a wide array of fields, such as lasers, laser-plasma physics, electro-optics, software development, and optical, x-ray, and nuclear instrument development and testing. For more information, please visit: https://lasers.llnl.gov/education/summer-scholar. References may be required.
You will Work alongside scientists conducting research at onsite laser and nuclear facilities in the areas of advanced laser development, laser plasma interactions, hydrodynamics, materials science, radiation physics and various advanced diagnostic systems.
Conduct research (experimental, theoretical, or modeling) in assigned areas, under close supervision.
Gather and analyze data or information in support of scientific research.
Communicate research results: document work, present and discuss findings.
Attend relevant seminars and prepare a poster for the Student Intern Poster Symposium.
Perform technical assignments of a basic degree of complexity and provide advanced technical support to scientist in scientific research and development projects.
Perform other duties as assigned.
QualificationsMust be a college or university student in good academic standing, enrolled in an accredited institution, and pursuing a Ph.D. or master's degree in engineering, physics, or a related field.
Demonstrated exposure through coursework or relevant experience with tools related to your field of study. For experimental work this can include data reduction and manipulation, image processing, computer-aided drafting, or similar; for theoretical/computational work this includes numerical methods and scientific programming languages (Python, MATLAB, etc.).A sustained record of outstanding academic performance.
Ability to work full time for ten to twelve weeks during the summer months.
Ability to apply basic engineering or scientific principles to solve technical problems.
Ability to present and communicate concepts and ideas.
Effective interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment.
Experience working with personal computers and familiarity with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Qualifications We DesirePrior experience in physics or engineering laboratory settings for experimental assignments, and in cluster/high-performance computing or plasma physics codes for computational assignments.
GPA of 3.0 or above.
Pay Range $6,752 - $8,201 Monthly This position is under a step structure. Please note that the step placement is determined by your most recent completed academic year. Additional InformationAll your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?
Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
Holiday PaySick leave accrualIndividual 401(k) contributionsOur values - visit https://www.llnl.gov/inclusion/our-values Security ClearanceNone required. However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process. This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities. The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position. To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112. Pre-Employment Drug TestExternal 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 DevicesPer 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 devices. If you use a medical device, which pairs with a mobile device, you must still follow the rules concerning the mobile device in individual sections within Limited Areas. Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities require separate approval. Hearing aids without wireless capabilities or wireless that has been disabled are allowed in Limited Areas, Secure Space and Transit/Buffer Space within buildings. How to identify fake job advertisementsPlease be aware of recruitment scams where people or entities are misusing the name of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to post fake job advertisements. LLNL never extends an offer without a personal interview and will never charge a fee for joining our company. All current job openings are displayed on the Career Page under "Find Your Job" of our website. If you have encountered a job posting or have been approached with a job offer that you suspect may be fraudulent, we strongly recommend you do not respond.
To learn more about recruitment scams: https://www.llnl.gov/sites/www/files/2023-05/LLNL-Job-Fraud-Statement-Updated-4.26.23.pdf Equal Employment OpportunityWe are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.
Reasonable AccommodationOur goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request. California Privacy NoticeThe California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non-employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here.
Similar remote jobs
Similar jobs in Livermore, CA
The Norland Group
Livermore, CA
Posted1 day ago
Updated1 hour ago
T-Mobile
Livermore, CA
Posted2 days ago
Updated1 day ago