If you’ve ever dreamed of building a better world through science, engineering, and creativity, you might just find your purpose at Sandia National Labs jobs. For those searching for meaningful work and technical advances, these laboratories offers a great opportunity. As one of the most respected research institutions in the United States, it operates in the fields of scientific investigation and national security. By joining them, individuals are entering an environment where their work directly contributes to improving technology and protecting the country.
Careers at Sandia National Labs are not only appealing because of the recognition or the challenge, but also because of the extensive support it provides. The laboratory stands out among federal research organizations for its comprehensive healthcare benefits and a culture of openness. It maintains a reputation for creating a workplace that encourages both personal and professional growth. This makes it an ideal destination for experienced professionals, fresh graduates, veterans, and those entering technical careers. So don’t wait any longer to apply.
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Company Name: | Sandia National Labs |
Job Locations: | United States |
Last Updated on: | August 15th, 2025 |
Sandia National Labs Jobs With No Degreee in United States
About Sandia National Laboratories
Sandia National Laboratories was established in 1949 and has grown into one of the leading multi-mission research and development institutions in the country. Originally part of the Manhattan Project during World War II, the lab was formed to handle the engineering and production of nuclear weapons. Over time, its responsibilities expanded significantly to incorporate a wide range of national security functions. It now contributes considerably to areas such as cybersecurity, energy efficiency, climate research, biosciences, and automated manufacturing. As of now, Dr. James S. Peery serves as the Director of Sandia National Laboratories.
The mission of Sandia is to ensure the United States’ security through science and technology. This includes maintaining the safety and reliability of the nation’s nuclear arsenal. It also prevents the spread of weapons of mass destruction, and protects important infrastructure. These responsibilities place the lab in a prominent position within the government’s security framework, where creativity is not only encouraged but required. Scientists and engineers are tasked with finding solutions to changing threats, and they do so using modern computing, materials science, artificial intelligence, and systems analysis.
Work Culture at Sandia
Sandia encourages a working environment that feels more like a purposeful community than a typical office. The culture promotes meaningful collaboration between disciplines, enabling scientists, engineers, and analysts to solve actual problems together instead of separately. This cross-functional teamwork is not only supported but actively built into how projects are structured. Employees often describe their work as intellectually challenging, surrounded by peers who are equally passionate about the lab’s mission. This collective energy is based on a shared commitment to national security and public service.
The organization also places a high priority on fairness and respect, which ensures that all voices are heard regardless of title or tenure. Leadership frequently encourages open dialogue through forums, feedback sessions, and collaborative planning meetings. In addition to technical excellence, emotional intelligence and mutual respect are regarded as necessary qualities. These principles extend across all departments, forming an environment of trust and openness that allows new ideas to grow. Additional reasons to work here are listed below.
- Staff members are encouraged to explore professional growth through transfers across departments, helping them to expand their skillset without needing to leave the organization.
- There is a structured mentorship culture, where senior experts guide entry-level employees through technical development, leadership skills, and mission-focused thinking.
- Wellness and mental health are not afterthoughts. Dedicated programs, on-site wellness initiatives, and mental health resources are actively promoted as part of maintaining work-life balance.
- Annual recognition programs highlight employee achievements, creating a culture of appreciation and mutual respect across departments.
- Employees have access to affinity groups that promote cultural awareness and peer connection across demographic and professional identities.
Types of Jobs at Sandia
Sandia National Labs jobs appeal to both technical and non-technical professionals. Whether someone is interested in leading research, managing operational logistics, building software to protect national security assets, or analyzing the future of energy policy, there’s a role that matches nearly every academic background and goal. These job categories are carefully designed to support the lab’s mission from multiple angles, with collaborative opportunities often crossing traditional industry lines. Here are a few of these professions.
Engineering
Engineering careers at Sandia cover an extensive range of specialties, from mechanical and electrical to nuclear and systems engineering. Engineers working here do more than maintain equipment. They create the tools and infrastructure that help move national security forward. Whether it’s developing specialized robotics for defense applications or optimizing solar storage technologies, these jobs are both technical and strategic. Many of these positions are project-based and highly interdisciplinary, which require close collaboration with scientists and analysts across departments.
Science and R&D
Sandia’s work is centered on research and development. Scientific roles extend across physics, chemistry, biology, and computational science, often involving high-stakes projects like nuclear defense or global threat reduction. Scientists are not only encouraged but expected to publish their findings, work with external collaborators, and pursue new research that contributes to public safety and national interests. These roles offer significant freedom while demanding strict observance of scientific ethics and accountability.
IT and Cybersecurity
Technology plays a central role in keeping confidential information secure, and that makes IT and cybersecurity jobs at Sandia absolutely necessary. Professionals in this field handle everything from network architecture and system administration to the latest cyber defense technologies. Given the nature of the lab’s mission, cybersecurity experts are in high demand and often work closely with engineers and intelligence analysts to anticipate and neutralize threats. Many positions in this category allow for remote or hybrid work, depending on clearance requirements and sensitivity.
Business and Operations
Behind every successful experiment or defense strategy is a network of professionals handling finance, communications, human resources, legal support, procurement, and logistics. Business and operations teams ensure that daily functions run efficiently and that long-term goals are met efficiently. These positions often require a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and internal regulations, given the lab’s federal connections.
Trades and Technical Support
Skilled tradespeople and technicians keep the lab running, from maintaining high-security lab environments to operating specialized machinery. These jobs are especially necessary in facilities management, manufacturing, and fieldwork support. While these roles may not involve college degrees, they require high levels of expertise and a strong commitment to safety and procedural discipline. Many entry-level positions are available in this category, often with job-based training and pathways to more comprehensive certifications.
Internships, Co-ops, and Postdoctoral Opportunities
Sandia provides a wide selection of structured programs designed for students, fresh graduates, and early-career professionals who are seeking to work in a research-focused environment. Internships are available in numerous disciplines including engineering, physics, computer science, business, and more. These opportunities are not limited to summer courses, but extend throughout the academic year, offering practical training that accompanies classroom learning. Interns have access to mentors, impactful projects, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to work that supports national defense and technological advancement.
Postdoctoral roles are designed for individuals who have recently earned their PhDs and are looking to expand their research into a practical and results-oriented environment. These appointments are usually project-specific and last between one and three years. Postdocs at Sandia enjoy access to outstanding facilities and resources, which allows them to pursue specialized work in areas like quantum information science, energy systems, or high-performance materials. The program is designed to provide networking opportunities and publication support.
Salary and Compensation
With Sandia National Labs jobs, salaries are designed to attract and retain top talent across a variety of disciplines. The pay scales are established based on factors such as educational background, relevant experience, specific job roles, and the level of security clearance required. The organization ensures that its salary levels are in accordance with industry standards, which reflects the strategic nature of its work in national security and technology.
- Entry-Level PCB Designer: An entry-level PCB Designer can expect an estimated total pay ranging from $61,000 to $96,000 annually, with an average base salary of approximately $77,000 per year.
- Scientist: Scientists at Sandia earn an average annual salary of about $147,252, which is approximately 59% above the national average for similar roles.
- Engineer: Engineers have an estimated average salary of $140,957 per year, which is competitive within the industry.
- Postdoctoral Appointee: Postdoctoral researchers typically receive a fixed annual salary of around $85,700, depending on their specific research area and location.
- Technical Program Manager: This role commands total compensation of up to $200,000 annually, reflecting the seniority and responsibility associated with the position.
- Cybersecurity Manager: In Albuquerque, NM, a Cybersecurity Manager can earn approximately $200,372 per year, highlighting the importance of cybersecurity roles within the organization.
- Student Intern: Interns are compensated on an hourly basis, with rates around $34.70 per hour, providing valuable experience and access to exciting opportunities.
Benefits and Perks
Applicants for Sandia National Labs jobs will benefit from one of the most comprehensive benefits packages available in the public sector. Here, healthcare insurance coverage is wide-ranging and features multiple plan options that include medical, dental, and vision. These plans provide extensive coverage for both routine and specialized care, along with access to the best providers. Employees also benefit from preventative services, telehealth access, and cost-sharing mechanisms that keep their costs manageable. The benefits are designed not just to support an individual, but to protect and promote the health of entire families. Dependent coverage and spousal benefits are readily available and competitively priced.
The lab also invests significantly in long-term well-being through its retirement and development programs. Employees can take advantage of generous 401(k) plans that include employer matching contributions and optional pension plan participation for permanent staff. Beyond financial planning, the lab supports professional growth through tuition reimbursement, certification training, and leadership development initiatives. Paid time off includes federal holidays, sick leave, vacation accrual, and additional paid time for volunteering or special missions. Employee wellness is taken seriously, with access to mental health resources, lifestyle coaching, and on-site fitness facilities at many locations. These offerings underscore a culture of care that extends far beyond the workplace.
Eligibility Criteria
You must meet specific eligibility standards in order to apply for Sandia National Labs jobs. First and foremost, most roles at the lab require U.S. citizenship due to the highly confidential and classified nature of their work. This is especially true for positions that involve security clearances or work with defense-related systems. Even for roles that are non-technical or administrative in nature, citizenship is generally a firm prerequisite. The lab’s dedication to national security means it must observe federal regulations around workforce eligibility at all levels. Additionally, you must meet the following criteria to work here:
- Some high-security positions may require Q-clearance, which involves additional vetting beyond standard background checks.
- Non-citizen applicants, including permanent residents and visa holders, are typically not eligible for employment due to federal regulations.
- Recent graduates can qualify for entry-level roles, but must still meet the security and citizenship standards set by the Department of Energy.
- Previous experience in federal agencies or Department of Defense programs may improve candidacy but is not mandatory for all positions.
- Some jobs require the ability to travel between sites, including temporary assignments to remote or classified facilities.
- Physical fitness and medical clearance may be necessary for fieldwork or roles involving hazardous conditions.
- Remote eligibility is reviewed individually and depends on the nature of the work, clearance level, and operational requirements.
Application Process for Sandia National Labs Jobs
Applying for Sandia National Lab jobs is easy and designed to match top talent with high-profile national security work. Whether you’re exploring your first research role or moving into a high-security project management position, the process begins on the lab’s careers portal. So let’s get started.
- The lab’s job page can be accessed by clicking “Apply Here”.
- Once you’re on the page, create a candidate account by registering with a valid email address and choosing a secure password.
- Complete your profile with details such as education, employment history, certifications, and any relevant military or clearance experience.
- Use the job search tool to browse available positions filtered by keyword, location, job family, or clearance requirements.
- Select a position that fits your qualifications and interests, and carefully review the full job description, duties, and required skills.
- Upload your updated resume, and if needed, include a cover letter or supporting documents specific to the position.
- Answer application-specific questions, which may relate to eligibility for clearance, U.S. citizenship status, or veteran identification.
- Submit your completed application through the portal and await further contact from the recruiting team.
Summary
Anyone exploring Sandia National Labs jobs will find an exceptional combination of engaging work, generous salaries, and opportunities for career growth. From a simplified application process and well-defined career paths to attractive benefits and a supportive workplace culture, this lab stands out as a place where new ideas and public service come together. Whether you’re aiming for a role in cybersecurity, research, engineering, or technical support, there’s something to fit your experience and goals. Applicants are encouraged to take that next step, browse openings, and see where their skills can help promote national progress.