TN Visa Director Of Research Operations Jobs
Director of Research Operations roles qualify for TN visa sponsorship under the Scientific Technician/Technologist or relevant professional category, depending on your degree and the position's scope. Canadian citizens can apply at the port of entry with no cap; Mexican citizens go through consular processing. A qualifying bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
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Come join the best and brightest minds in the world at one of the most innovative and creative multidisciplinary research institutions! The Energy Systems and Infrastructure Security (ENSIS) team in the Earth and Environmental Sciences Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking an intellectually curious post-doctoral researcher in geo-energy resources and critical minerals. The successful candidate will work on an interdisciplinary team focused on integrated subsurface systems, combining geo-energy resources, critical mineral exploration, and geospatial analysis. The research will leverage advanced data analytics, applied machine learning, and techno-economic analysis to improve resource characterization, reduce uncertainty, and identify sustainable and economically viable development strategies.
The Earth and Environmental Sciences Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory employs scientists, postdoctoral researchers, and students with expertise across a wide range of Earth science disciplines. The successful candidate will join the interdisciplinary Energy and Natural Resources Security Group, a collaborative team working on strategic national and global challenges related to subsurface energy and environmental security. Our work spans energy production, resource sustainability, environmental stewardship, and subsurface systems, with active collaborations across industry, academia, and national laboratories.
What You Need
The successful applicant will have a background in subsurface systems and multiscale modeling, with interest or expertise in integrating geoscience with data-driven approaches. Experience in applied machine learning, data science, or techno-economic analysis (TEA) applied to energy or mineral systems is desirable. The position requires the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. The successful applicant will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences.
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Demonstrated expertise in subsurface energy systems and reservoir engineering
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent and collaborative research
- Strong written and oral communication skills, supported by peer-reviewed publications and presentations
- Ability to work effectively in a diverse, multidisciplinary environment
Desired Qualifications:
Candidates with a strong background in one or more of the following technical areas are encouraged to apply:
- Experience with reservoir simulation and/or molecular modeling
- Experience with applied machine learning or data-driven modeling
- Experience with techno-economic analysis (TEA) or decision-support modeling
- Experience with geospatial analysis, or remote sensing
- Interest in system-level geo-energy and critical mineral infrastructure modeling
Education/Experience:
A Ph.D in Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Energy Systems Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related STEM field. For postdoctoral appointment the candidate must have completed all Ph.D. requirements within the last five years or by the commencement of the appointment.
Work Environment:
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants:
To apply, please submit an online application, including your CV and a one-page cover letter. The cover letter should include a short biography (2-3 sentences), research interests, and future career goals. Please address how you meet each of the minimum job requirements and any desired skills, if applicable.
Salary Range: $99,500-$109,911 based on experience.
Postdoc appointments are for two years, and in some cases a third-year extension may be considered. Salaries are competitive and commensurate with experience. Outstanding candidates may be eligible for a LANL Director's Fellowship or a Distinguished Fellowship.
If you have any questions, contact Mohamed Mehana (mzm@lanl.gov).
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
- PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
- Dental and vision insurance
- Free basic life and disability insurance
- Paid childbirth and parental leave
- Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
- Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
- Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
- Onsite gyms and wellness programs
- Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
- Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.
- Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
- Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated.
Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
- Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
- From here, you will establish an account with username and password.
How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
- Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
- Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.
What You Will Do
Come join the best and brightest minds in the world at one of the most innovative and creative multidisciplinary research institutions! The Energy Systems and Infrastructure Security (ENSIS) team in the Earth and Environmental Sciences Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory is seeking an intellectually curious post-doctoral researcher in geo-energy resources and critical minerals. The successful candidate will work on an interdisciplinary team focused on integrated subsurface systems, combining geo-energy resources, critical mineral exploration, and geospatial analysis. The research will leverage advanced data analytics, applied machine learning, and techno-economic analysis to improve resource characterization, reduce uncertainty, and identify sustainable and economically viable development strategies.
The Earth and Environmental Sciences Division at Los Alamos National Laboratory employs scientists, postdoctoral researchers, and students with expertise across a wide range of Earth science disciplines. The successful candidate will join the interdisciplinary Energy and Natural Resources Security Group, a collaborative team working on strategic national and global challenges related to subsurface energy and environmental security. Our work spans energy production, resource sustainability, environmental stewardship, and subsurface systems, with active collaborations across industry, academia, and national laboratories.
What You Need
The successful applicant will have a background in subsurface systems and multiscale modeling, with interest or expertise in integrating geoscience with data-driven approaches. Experience in applied machine learning, data science, or techno-economic analysis (TEA) applied to energy or mineral systems is desirable. The position requires the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. The successful applicant will be expected to publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international conferences.
Minimum Job Requirements:
- Demonstrated expertise in subsurface energy systems and reservoir engineering
- Demonstrated ability to conduct independent and collaborative research
- Strong written and oral communication skills, supported by peer-reviewed publications and presentations
- Ability to work effectively in a diverse, multidisciplinary environment
Desired Qualifications:
Candidates with a strong background in one or more of the following technical areas are encouraged to apply:
- Experience with reservoir simulation and/or molecular modeling
- Experience with applied machine learning or data-driven modeling
- Experience with techno-economic analysis (TEA) or decision-support modeling
- Experience with geospatial analysis, or remote sensing
- Interest in system-level geo-energy and critical mineral infrastructure modeling
Education/Experience:
A Ph.D in Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Energy Systems Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related STEM field. For postdoctoral appointment the candidate must have completed all Ph.D. requirements within the last five years or by the commencement of the appointment.
Work Environment:
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants:
To apply, please submit an online application, including your CV and a one-page cover letter. The cover letter should include a short biography (2-3 sentences), research interests, and future career goals. Please address how you meet each of the minimum job requirements and any desired skills, if applicable.
Salary Range: $99,500-$109,911 based on experience.
Postdoc appointments are for two years, and in some cases a third-year extension may be considered. Salaries are competitive and commensurate with experience. Outstanding candidates may be eligible for a LANL Director's Fellowship or a Distinguished Fellowship.
If you have any questions, contact Mohamed Mehana (mzm@lanl.gov).
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
- PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
- Dental and vision insurance
- Free basic life and disability insurance
- Paid childbirth and parental leave
- Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
- Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
- Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
- Onsite gyms and wellness programs
- Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
- Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.
- Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
- Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated.
Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
- Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
- From here, you will establish an account with username and password.
How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
- Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
- Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.
See all 115+ TN Visa Director Of Research Operations Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new TN Visa Director Of Research Operations Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding TN Visa Sponsorship in Director Of Research Operations
Align your credentials to the TN category
TN visa approval for a Director of Research Operations depends on your degree field matching the role's core functions. A degree in life sciences, biostatistics, or research management carries more weight than a general business credential when the position oversees scientific programs.
Target research-intensive institutions directly
Universities, pharmaceutical companies, and federally funded research centers hire Research Operations Directors regularly and have in-house HR teams familiar with TN documentation. Prioritizing these employers shortens the time between offer and filing.
Request a detailed offer letter upfront
CBP officers scrutinize offer letters for Director-level roles to confirm the position is managerial in a professional specialty, not purely administrative. Ask your employer to describe oversight of scientific staff, budget authority, and regulatory compliance responsibilities explicitly.
Prepare for port-of-entry inspection as a Canadian
Canadian citizens apply for TN status directly at a land border or preclearance airport. Bring your offer letter, degree transcripts, and a professional credentials summary. CBP can approve or deny on the spot, so your documentation package needs to be complete before you travel.
Use Migrate Mate to filter for verified TN sponsoring employers
Search for Director of Research Operations openings on Migrate Mate, which surfaces employers with recent visa filings and experience sponsoring work visas. This saves time you would otherwise spend vetting employers who lack sponsorship experience.
Clarify Mexican citizen consular appointment timing early
Mexican nationals must complete consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate, which adds scheduling lead time. Confirm with your employer that the start date accounts for appointment availability, which can vary by location and season.
Director Of Research Operations TN Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Director of Research Operations role qualify for TN visa status?
It can, but TN eligibility depends on how the role is classified and what degree you hold. Positions that involve directing scientific research programs and require a bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field, such as life sciences, public health, or research administration, are most likely to qualify. Purely administrative director roles without a direct connection to a professional specialty are harder to support under TN.
How does TN visa sponsorship compare to H-1B for this role?
TN visa sponsorship is generally faster and more predictable for Director of Research Operations candidates than H-1B visa. There is no lottery for Canadians, no annual cap to wait for, and no multi-month USCIS adjudication period. Canadians can receive TN status at the port of entry on the day of travel. H-1B visa requires employer registration in March, a random lottery selection, and filing before October 1, creating delays that TN avoids entirely.
What documents does my employer need to provide for TN sponsorship?
Your employer needs to provide a detailed offer letter on company letterhead that describes your job title, duties, required qualifications, length of employment, and compensation. For a Director of Research Operations role, the letter should specify that the position requires professional-level expertise in a recognized TN occupation. The employer does not file a petition with USCIS for Canadian applicants, but Mexican nationals require a DS-160 and consular appointment.
Can I find Director of Research Operations jobs with TN sponsorship on Migrate Mate?
Yes. Migrate Mate is specifically designed to surface jobs where employers have TN visa sponsorship experience, so you are not applying blind. Searching for Director of Research Operations roles through Migrate Mate lets you focus on employers who understand the TN category and are positioned to move quickly once they extend an offer.
Can I transition from a different visa to TN status once I have a job offer?
Yes. If you are already in the U.S. on F-1 OPT, H-1B, or another nonimmigrant status, you can change to TN status by filing a change of status request with USCIS, or by leaving the U.S. and re-entering with your TN documentation. Canadians often find re-entry at a land port of entry faster than waiting for a USCIS change of status decision.