June 29, 2009 - New Science, New Funding, New Jobs: SLAC is Hiring

Over 1500 scientists, engineers, technicians and support professionals work together at SLAC to conduct world-class research. Photo: Peter Ginter. Click for high-res version (.tif).

Menlo Park, Calif.—When the going gets tough, the tough turn to science. And the recent revitalization of U.S. science has brought new projects—and jobs—to SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. As a result, we need you!

Just over a year ago, budget cuts led to project closures and layoffs at the lab. Today, renewed national science funding and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act are energizing both new and existing programs for SLAC—programs that will have an impact on our surrounding communities.

"We have almost 100 open positions now, including more than 60 that are still accepting resumes," said Human Resources Manager Lisa Mongetta. "This is about 50% more than we would typically have. Given SLAC's project plans, we expect the number of employment opportunities to continue to be above the norm through this year and into the next."

The upward trend in SLAC jobs is a direct result of renewed national science funding, stimulus projects, and new directions in the lab's scientific focus.

"On January 7, 2008, I had to announce the largest layoff in the history of the lab," said SLAC Director Persis Drell. "This year I had the joy of announcing increases in SLAC science budgets as well as millions in new funding from the Recovery Act."

"What is most important is what these funds will allow the lab to do," Drell continued. "The welcome fiscal change has both stabilized and accelerated SLAC's development as a world-class lightsource facility, a leader in accelerator physics, and a top international partner in particle physics and astrophysics."

Notably, projects funded under the Recovery Act will speed scientific research with the world's first hard X-ray laser, establish a center for advanced plasma-driven accelerator research, and shore up the infrastructure to support SLAC science and safety. (See "SLAC Puts Federal Stimulus Funds to Work.")

But this work takes ready hands. In particular, SLAC is seeking engineers, scientists, software developers, financial analysts, project control professionals, and administrators. Several executive positions are also open, including a director of acquisitions.

"This is a tremendously exciting time to be at SLAC," said Human Resources Director Larry Young. "There are so many great opportunities, and a chance to be part of cutting-edge science affiliated with Stanford University, one of the most beautiful settings in California."

Job listings for SLAC and joint SLAC/Stanford appointments are available through the SLAC Human Resources Web site.

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is a multi-program laboratory exploring frontier questions in photon science, astrophysics, particle physics and accelerator research. Located in Menlo Park, California, SLAC is operated by Stanford University for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science.

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