The Chief Technology Advisor serves as the technical leader for science, engineering, and research and development strategy at Pantex. The individual leads research and development initiatives to propel manufacturing, quality, and surveillance activities to accomplish the nuclear security mission today and in the future. The Chief Technology Advisor aligns the technical strategic vision with stakeholders to develop the Technology Roadmap, works with the Production Research, Development, and Integration office to guide R&D focus areas and associated projects, and shape the overall direction of research, innovation, and implementation strategy for Pantex. The Chief Technology Advisor links enterprise-wide strategies with technical solutions to meet tomorrow’s challenges in support of National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) mission priorities.
The Chief Technology Advisor serves as a liaison between Pantex and NNSA. Further, the Chief Technology Advisor serves as a strategic and technical liaison to the Nuclear Security Enterprise Design Agencies in weapons and high explosive manufacturing to develop and advocate for transformative concepts, productivity improvements, and innovative collaborations that serve the Pantex and NNSA missions.
The Chief Technology Advisor facilitates communications of emerging issues and the general climate and perspective between the Pantex, NNSA, and Design Agency decision makers. The individual facilitates resolution of issues and participates in significant, high-level meetings on topics of critical interest such as Critical Decision milestones; the status of significant deliverables, such as life extension programs, surveillance programs and dismantlements; and the status of efforts to maintain capabilities and reduce operational risks. Specific responsibilities include, but not limited to, travel to and communications with various members of the Nuclear Security Enterprise (i.e. KCNSC, SRS, Y-12, LANL, LLNL, SNL, NNSA, and Department of Defense). Candidates require a demonstrated ability to:
- Interpret, prepare, review and/or summarize various technical and non-technical reports and data (i.e. production status, budget, anomalous units, etc.)
- Lead and/or participate in various teams, committees, and working groups
- Effectively communicate significant opportunities, risks, issues, needs, and accomplishments to support high level reporting
- Serve as a mentor and develop and culture of high scientific integrity
- Act as internal technical consultant and reviewer of data
- Lead technology maturation efforts and provide guidance and coordination for major research and development projects.