Meet LLNL: Mechanical Engineer Eddie Jimenez

For many Lab employees who were raised and reside in the Central Valley like Eddie Jimenez, working at the Laboratory is a full-circle moment.

“You always hear about the Lab,” he said. “It is part of our upbringing and when you understand what goes on here, you gain a sense of pride to say that you are part of the science behind the gates.”

Jimenez started at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in August 2023 as a senior mechanical engineer in the Engineering directorate, matrixed into the National Ignition Facility (NIF). In his role, he is helping to support the NIF sustainment effort in revitalizing the main NIF amplifier cavity. Specifically, Jimenez is leading the effort to safely transport and handle door-sized pieces of glass in dozens of processing and assembly steps to rebuild more than 1,700 Blast Shield line replaceable units (LRU), a key optic used to protect the precious amplifier slabs from a possible failure of the nearby flashlamp LRUs.

“I never thought I would be able to design or upgrade these machines,” Jimenez said. “Being able to work at the home of ignition is something I am thankful to be a part of.”

Jimenez’s upbringings are unique in that he was born abroad and made his way to the Central Valley, where he now calls home. Throughout his journey, his family instilled in him the work ethic and curiosity he possesses today, all while keeping him connected to his Hispanic roots.

Jimenez was born in Paris, France, in 1992, and his parents migrated to the U.S. a year later, settling in Salida, just north of Modesto, California.

“My parents wanted us to be back with family. Growing up, my parents put a strong emphasis on education, particularly in STEM,” he said. “My father led by example. Before having me, he was in the technology industry training companies in Europe and my mother supported him. That’s how I was born in France.”

His parents moved to the Central Valley to stay close to family.

“Family is a huge value among Hispanic families,” he said. “My parents wanted us to be around them and feel the communal support.”

Through family support, Jimenez became more curious about working in STEM, trying new things, being curious and learning more about people and their cultures.

Prior to coming to LLNL, Jimenez worked in the farming industry. At one employer, he stayed there for about eight years, but left when he felt like he was plateauing, lacking inspiration and being challenged. Around the same time, he embarked on two new life experiences: starting a family and beginning an online master’s degree in artificial intelligence at the University of San Diego.

“This was a crucial time for me,” he said. “I was beginning to juggle all these new experiences in all aspects of my life — personal, professional and with family. But I was reminded of the support my family gave me up until then and when I saw a job opportunity become available at the Lab, I decided to apply. I was determined to be the best father possible, and I was able to attain my master’s degree.”

Arriving at the Lab gave Jimenez a new direction for career satisfaction that complements his personal endeavors. He joined the Lab’s Ombuds Program, where he helps other employees navigate concerns and challenges. He is also an Amigos Unidos employee resource group (ERG) leader, aiding in the recruitment and retention of other employees with Hispanic heritage in the workplace. Recently, he represented LLNL and the ERG at the U.S. Department of Energy’s second annual One EnERGy Summit.

“I really am enjoying pursuing new things at LLNL,” he said. “I joined the Amigos Unidos leadership team and through that I am always meeting new people. With the group, I am hoping to share job and student opportunities with people interested in working here.”

Jimenez added he enjoys traveling and playing sports. Traveling enables him to discover new cultures and connect with diverse individuals, enriching his perspective both in life and at work. He stays active by playing golf and enjoying volleyball during lunch time, which has helped him forge stronger connections with his teammates. Additionally, Jimenez revealed his next goal — traveling to Paris with his family to explore his birthplace, a long-time item on his bucket list. He’s eager for recommendations for their trip.

At Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory our staff are our greatest asset. LLNL continues to act on its commitment to foster strong values and a culture that embraces inclusion, diversity, equity and accountability. We encourage all to explore our available careers and apply.