The Role
A startup developing a small modular reactor is looking for an experienced nuclear engineer to support the design and analysis of its reactor and plant systems. The role spans multiple disciplines, reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, safety, fuel, mechanical design, controls, and licensing, and is suited to someone with deep expertise in one area and curiosity across the others.
You’ll work on the reactor core, vessel, primary systems, and supporting plant equipment, helping the company move its design from concept toward a licensable, buildable system.
What You’ll Do
- Convert design requirements and regulatory expectations into engineering specifications and criteria
- Perform engineering calculations, reduced-order and system-level models, and trade studies
- Support definition of operating conditions, safety functions, and design-basis events
- Draft technical requirements for external partners (vendors, national labs, universities) and review their deliverables
- Contribute to design reviews, licensing documentation, and regulatory engagement
- Document how reactor systems interface with balance-of-plant and other subsystems
What You’ll Need
- PhD in nuclear engineering or a closely related field, plus 4+ years of relevant design, analysis, or research experience (graduate research counts)
- Strong foundation in at least one of: thermal hydraulics, reactor physics/core design, safety analysis, fuel performance, or plant controls
- Track record of producing well-documented engineering analyses, with clear assumptions and limitations
- Comfort distinguishing preliminary engineering judgment from validated, licensing-grade work
- Strong technical writing and communication skills
Nice to Have
- Experience with SMRs or other advanced/non-LWR reactor concepts
- Familiarity with standard reactor analysis codes (neutronics, thermal-hydraulics, or safety analysis tools)
- Python, MATLAB, or similar
- Knowledge of 10 CFR licensing frameworks
- PRA, risk-informed design, or QA experience
- Experience coordinating technical work with outside labs, consultants, or suppliers