Fracture Mechanics Engineer

About the Role

Join our vital mission to create lasting solutions for our planet’s greatest challenges and shape the future of clean energy. In this role, you will contribute to high-value engineering work supporting operating plants, long-term operation, inspection planning, repair evaluations, and plant-specific technical justifications. You will collaborate with experienced nuclear engineers across fracture mechanics, materials, stress analysis, design, and licensing to develop technically sound and practical solutions for complex plant conditions.

You will perform structural and fracture analyses for the commercial Nuclear Energy Industry using finite element analyses and hand calculations, including evaluating the effects of weld residual stresses on pressure boundary components, calculating crack growth life, and determining critical crack sizes.

Responsibilities

• Performs non-standard engineering assignments in areas of design, development, analysis, evaluation, testing, preparation of specifications, execution of field tasks, and resolution of field problems and quality events.
• Works autonomously on most assignments with minimal assistance or instruction, ensuring compliance with government regulations, industry standards, and customer requirements.
• Independently evaluates, selects, and applies technical techniques, procedures, and criteria, making adaptations and modifications for tasks not previously performed.
• Develops knowledge of organization, processes, and customers while contributing to special projects as directed.
• Provides suggestions for improving processes and implementing process improvements.
• Maintains a safety mindset and applies sound engineering judgment in a technically rigorous environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science (degrees in Physics, Engineering Technology, or Engineering Science may also be accepted).
• Minimum of 3 years of related experience.
• Knowledge of related engineering standards, techniques, and criteria.
• Relevant experience or academic background in fracture mechanics, structural integrity, stress analysis, fatigue, materials engineering, or nuclear engineering.
• Strong foundation in engineering fundamentals related to stress analysis, fracture mechanics, materials behavior, and structural performance.
• Familiarity with engineering codes and standards, particularly ASME B&PV Code Section XI, and analytical methods used in the nuclear industry.

Skills

• Fundamental knowledge of elasticity, plasticity, and failure in metallic materials.
• Knowledge of crack growth models and crack growth cases.
• Understanding of low and high cycle fatigue and fracture mechanics theory and application.
• Experience with ANSYS (desired); ABAQUS is an asset.
• Proficiency with analytical and numerical tools such as finite element analysis software, MathCAD, Python, or Excel-based engineering calculations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear, technically sound documentation.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team.
• Attention to detail and a questioning attitude.
• Interest in continued technical development in fracture mechanics, structural integrity, and nuclear plant applications.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness: Multiple medical plan options, dental & vision coverage, life insurance, long- and short-term disability, and optional supplemental plans (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, dependent life).
• Retirement: 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid Time Off: Up to 3 weeks of vacation, 8 sick days, and 13 paid holidays annually.
• Extra Perks: Lifestyle spending account, employer-paid mental health support, education reimbursement, professional development opportunities, adoption assistance, parental leave, and employee assistance programs.

Pay

Salary: $100,000 - $110,000 (base salary range; individual total compensation may vary based on qualifications, skill level, competencies, and work location). May also include annual incentives and performance bonuses.

About Framatome

Framatome has been shaping the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. for more than 60 years. Headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, with over 2,400 employees across North America, Framatome supports nearly every nuclear plant in the nation. The company delivers outage services, advanced nuclear fuel technologies, and next-gen reactor innovations. At Framatome, you will join a global team committed to creating reliable, carbon-free energy while solving complex nuclear challenges that directly impact the climate. The culture values safety, innovation, and well-being, offering opportunities for technical fellowships, leadership roles, and global career development.