[Hiring] Senior Research Scientist – Telecommunications Cybersecurity @Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

Role Description

PNNL is seeking a highly experienced cybersecurity grid researcher to lead and contribute to advanced research in areas of secure communications and grid cybersecurity. This role will focus on developing strategies, tools, and use cases that enhance the resilience and security of critical infrastructure communications, while supporting broader cybersecurity initiatives across multiple programs.

This position will play a key role in advancing PNNL’s mission to secure critical infrastructure and enable resilient communications for the nation’s energy systems. The successful candidate will contribute to high-visibility programs and help shape the future of cybersecurity research at PNNL.

• Lead and propose projects with goals such as preventing unauthorized access, monitoring network traffic for anomalies, and implementing complementary communications security methods.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to advance cybersecurity research and the application of standards in advanced grid technology areas such as secure communications.
• Lead development of documentation and publications supporting the research.

Qualifications

• BS/BA and 7+ years of relevant work experience -OR-
• MS/MA and 5+ years of relevant work experience -OR-
• PhD with 3+ years of relevant experience
• Familiarity with critical infrastructure protection, grid modernization, and telecommunications security.
• Experience engaging with industry stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
• Experience planning, implementing, and operating hardware in the loop infrastructure.
• Deep technical expertise in telecommunications cybersecurity, grid cybersecurity, timing systems.
• Experience in system architecture and deployment of secure telecommunications and networking in an electric utility environment.
• Proven ability to lead research, develop use cases, and deliver technical solutions in complex environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience producing technical documentation and white papers.

Requirements

• This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP).

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Robust telehealth care options
• Several mental health benefits
• Free wellness coaching
• Health savings account
• Flexible spending accounts
• Basic life insurance
• Disability insurance*
• Employee assistance program
• Business travel insurance
• Tuition assistance
• Relocation
• Backup childcare
• Legal benefits
• Supplemental parental bonding leave
• Surrogacy and adoption assistance
• Fertility support
• Company-funded pension plan*
• 401(k) savings plan with company match*
• Up to 120 vacation hours per year
• Ten paid holidays per year

Company Description

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. Every year, scores of dynamic, driven people come to PNNL to work with renowned researchers on meaningful science, innovations and outcomes for the U.S. Department of Energy and other sponsors; here is your chance to be one of them!

At PNNL, you will find an exciting research environment and excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. PNNL is located in eastern Washington State—the dry side of Washington known for its stellar outdoor recreation and affordable cost of living. The Lab’s campus is only a 45-minute flight (or ~3 hour drive) from Seattle or Portland, and is serviced by the convenient PSC airport, connected to 8 major hubs.