Sandia Labs Jobs USA 2025 | Announced Entry-Level Openings

Those entering the job market with an interest in the STEM fields, secure technologies, and exciting discoveries should check out Sandia Labs Jobs. Finding a job that incorporates purpose, stability, and career growth can feel like a never-ending search. For those who are committed to meaningful work that directly contributes to the nation’s security and future technologies, Sandia National Laboratories stands out as a respected option. With a long-standing reputation for science, engineering, and research, this federally funded research and development center attracts a wide range of talent from across the country.

Job seekers without a traditional college degree or those seeking entry-level opportunities will find Sandia Labs careers appealing. What sets the Lab apart is how it welcomes different levels of experience and skill set while offering a professional environment focused on solving actual problems. The careers page consistently highlights roles that encourage fresh perspectives and long-term commitment, which makes them desirable not only for experienced professionals but also for new graduates or those searching for a more technical or research-oriented role. So don’t wait too long. Make sure you apply while positions are still open.

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Sandia Labs Jobs in Albuquerque & Across United States

Overview of Sandia National Laboratories

Sandia National Laboratories was established in the late 1940s for the purpose of promoting the country’s security and scientific discovery. In the past, Bell Labs managed the facility, but now National Technology and Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC is managing it, under the direction of the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). The lab’s mission has always been centered on ensuring the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear arsenal. However, over time, its scope has expanded to include a wide selection of scientific research and engineering initiatives.

Today, Sandia’s main focus areas include nuclear deterrence, cybersecurity, energy technologies, biological and chemical defense, and advanced computing. It has become a place where high-level research meets practical application. Engineers, scientists, analysts, and support staff work collaboratively to solve complicated national challenges. While its historic contribution to nuclear defense is still important, Sandia also leads in renewable energy systems, artificial intelligence research, and specialized sensor development. The lab’s role in both classified and unclassified projects has made it a trusted partner not just to federal agencies but also to private industry and academic institutions.

Work Culture and Environment

Sandia’s organizational culture reflects a balance between mission-based approach and genuine care for employee well-being. People working across its campuses often speak of a collaborative environment, where departments regularly share ideas and resources to push new ideas forward. The culture is based on purpose, with employees feeling that their work supports the national interest, yet it’s far from formal or corporate in tone. Instead, there’s a steady effort to maintain a respectful, welcoming workspace where teams are encouraged to question, rethink, and explore.

Employees often highlight how open communication plays a significant role in how the lab functions every day. From junior interns to senior researchers, their voices are heard and their ideas are valued. The lab also supports a feedback-friendly environment, with regular reviews, mentorship pairings, and peer recognition programs to help employees grow. Many say they feel invested in their projects not just because of the scientific significance, but also because of the people around them who share that passion. And while deadlines and government partnerships demand competence, the overall mood in the labs and offices leans towards human, supportive, and encouraging.

Many positions now offer hybrid or fully off-site working options depending on security clearances and project scopes. This flexibility has been praised for making Sandia more accessible to talent nationwide while helping current employees better manage their work-life balance. While not every role qualifies for full-time remote, those that do are fully supported with the infrastructure and digital tools needed for effective collaboration. Here is additional information about work culture.

Types of Jobs Available at Sandia Labs

A variety of Sandia Labs jobs reflect the extensive scope of its work. This stretches from classified defense operations to developments in clean energy and artificial intelligence. Every type of role contributes to larger national interests, and there are openings for professionals from almost every background. From those just getting started in their careers to experienced subject matter experts, the lab’s recruiting efforts focus on attracting talent that values purpose, collaboration, and excellence.

Engineering Roles (Mechanical, Electrical, Nuclear)

At Sandia, engineers are more than problem solvers. They are designers, builders, and troubleshooters of some of the nation’s most advanced and secure systems. Mechanical engineers work on energy systems, defense mechanisms, robotics, and prototyping, often in partnership with researchers and defense clients. Electrical engineers deal with power systems, radar technologies, and signal processing, especially in high-security environments. Nuclear engineers at the lab are directly involved in testing safety protocols, and maintaining the reliability of the country’s nuclear repository.

Research & Development (Scientists, Researchers, Analysts)

A lab’s reputation is built on its R&D contributions. Scientists from fields like physics, chemistry, materials science, and bioscience work on basic research which often leads to government-funded discoveries. Analysts contribute to everything from environmental modeling to economic forecasting in relation to energy systems and military planning. Researchers operate across multidisciplinary teams, often working under secured project codes that support defense, cyber, or space-related developments.

Cybersecurity, Software, and IT Positions

With the rising cyber threats, Sandia’s role in digital defense has grown significantly. These positions include secure software developers, threat analysts, cryptography experts, and IT support staff who build and maintain internal systems. Much of this work directly supports federal agencies, so these roles may require different levels of clearance. Still, even entry-level tech professionals can find a place here, especially those with expertise in coding, network systems, or cloud security. Some IT roles are classified as remote depending on the project importance.

Internships and Student Programs

Sandia’s dedication to education is visible in its comprehensive internship offerings. Students studying STEM subjects are given real projects, not coffee runs. Interns work alongside mentors, participate in lab meetings, and may even publish findings depending on the program. Summer and year-round internships are available, along with graduate fellowships for students completing undergraduate degrees. These programs offer competitive pay, housing assistance in some cases, and the opportunity to work on national-scale science.

Entry-Level Job Paths

Not every position at Sandia requires years of experience or a Ph.D. Many positions are designed for early-career professionals, including lab assistants, junior engineers, IT specialists, and project coordinators. Even roles in business operations or procurement are open to those just starting out. The lab recognizes potential and often invests in upskilling motivated individuals. For candidates without a degree, certification, practical experience, or military background, they can sometimes substitute educational credentials depending on the position.

Administrative and Support Roles

Behind the scientists and engineers are dedicated teams managing everything from logistics and documentation to procurement and event coordination. These positions include executive assistants, HR professionals, procurement specialists, and facility operation staff. Although they are not directly involved in research, these employees keep the lab running efficiently and contribute to its success. Positions in this category often require strong organizational skills, discretion, and adaptability to the lab’s fast-paced project cycles.

Benefits & Perks

The purpose of applying for Sandia Labs jobs goes beyond earning a paycheck. The benefits package supports employees through every phase of life, which makes the lab one of the most supportive workplaces in its field. Healthcare coverage is comprehensive, offering access to world-class medical providers, mental health resources, and on-site wellness programs that promote physical and emotional well-being. Employees can also take advantage of dental and vision care plans, all structured with preventative care in mind. The wellness approach here goes beyond the usual, which includes access to employee assistance programs, wellness reimbursements, and routine health screenings.

Work-life balance is more than a concept at Sandia. Generous paid time off policies allow employees to recharge through vacation days, personal leave, and federal holidays. New parents benefit from paid parental leave, and the flexibility built into many roles enables families to manage both work and life responsibilities. The lab also provides valuable support for the development of professional skills. Tuition reimbursement, conference sponsorship, and in-house training programs help employees develop their expertise while establishing long-term careers. These laboratories also offer a number of other benefits.

Salaries

Salaries at Sandia Labs are established according to role, experience level, and specialization, with figures designed to remain competitive in the national laboratory ecosystem. Entry-level engineers usually earn between $78,000 and $85,000 per year. Experienced professionals in technical engineering roles such as systems, electrical, or nuclear engineering may see salaries ranging from $100,000 to $130,000 depending on the nature of their assignments. Research scientists, especially those in high-priority fields like data science, national security research, or advanced materials, often earn between $110,000 and $145,000 annually. Positions in business operations or technical project management can range from $85,000 to $120,000, depending on seniority and technical involvement.

Administrative staff, including HR specialists and program coordinators, generally earn between $55,000 and $75,000. Technical support roles such as lab technicians or IT analysts fall between $65,000 and $90,000. Interns are paid hourly, with undergraduates making approximately $22 to $28 per hour, and graduate-level interns earning closer to $30 to $35 per hour. Salaries are in accordance with federal standards but are based on department needs and market demand for specialized skills. Across all job levels, compensation reflects the scientific and technical proficiency expected in each position. In addition, compensation reflects the sensitivity of the projects being handled.

Requirements

There is more to meeting the eligibility criteria for Sandia Labs jobs than checking boxes on a resume. Since the lab is closely associated with national defense and energy security programs, most positions require U.S. citizenship and, in many cases, eligibility for a security clearance. While some positions do not involve classified projects, the majority require background checks and a certain level of reliability clearance or higher. This requirement ensures that confidential data and project materials are handled by qualified staff, in line with federal mandates.

Departments have different educational backgrounds. While many research and engineering roles ask for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in a relevant STEM field, there are also openings that don’t require a traditional four-year degree. Applicants with certifications, associate degrees, or hands-on experience, especially in IT, maintenance, logistics, or cyber support, may still qualify for entry-level positions. The lab values hands-on experience and often considers military service, government training, or industry certifications equivalent to formal education depending on the role. Among the other criteria are:

Application Process for Sandia Labs Jobs

Applying to Sandia Labs jobs is designed to be clear, easy, and centered around matching the right candidate with the right project. Job seekers can start by visiting the official careers portal by clicking “Apply Here,” where the current listings are organized by department, location, and role type. After identifying a suitable opening, applicants must create an account, complete a detailed profile, and upload a resume. Along with the application form, candidates are encouraged to include a customized cover letter that corresponds to the position description.

To stand out, it’s necessary to carefully review the job posting and respond to specific requirements using clear language which reflects both professional experience and a commitment to the lab’s mission. Including measurable accomplishments, security clearance eligibility (if applicable), and references to collaborative or mission-oriented projects can strengthen the application. Once submitted, most applications go through initial review within a few weeks, although roles requiring clearance may take longer to process. Candidates moving on to the next stage may be asked to complete interviews or tests. Sandia also conducts background checks and, for many positions, initiates the federal clearances process.

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