Liquid Metal Engineer/Scientist

About the Role

Idaho National Laboratory seeks Nuclear Engineers to shape the future of nuclear energy by leveraging cutting-edge research to develop next-generation reactors and systems that power the nation and beyond.

You will develop experimental requirements or packaging and handling requirements, apply advanced nuclear engineering design principles and theories, use best practices in design methodologies to develop and validate designs, and document designs to ensure conformance with requirements and standards.

Responsibilities

• Apply advanced nuclear engineering design principles, theories, and concepts.
• Use best practices in design methodologies to develop and validate designs.
• Document designs to ensure conformance with requirements and standards.
• Establish testing, inspection, and quality requirements.
• Ensure fabrication, construction, assembly, and procurement align with design specifications.
• Perform integrated analyses to meet experimental, storage, transportation, disposal, and facility safety requirements.
• Defend analytical methods and results in reviews.
• Support project/program interactions with sponsors, operations, and engineering organizations.
• Develop and improve physics-based mathematical models and analysis methods.
• Prepare reports and peer-reviewed publications.
• Represent programs through technical presentations and at conferences.
• Participate in professional development activities.
• Perform analyses of irradiation experiments and conduct research supporting nuclear processes.
• Support transformational fuel qualification efforts.
• Support design of high-temperature piping loops, vessels, heaters, pumps, and instrumentation for high-temperature fluids including Lead Lithium (PbLi).
• Perform engineering calculations to define hydraulic, thermal, and mechanical design parameters (e.g., pump head, pressure drop, heat loss, pipe sizing).
• Develop and interpret Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Lead or support construction and commissioning of laboratory test platforms, pilot-scale systems, and engineering demonstration skids.
• Support system startup, commissioning, operational readiness reviews, and troubleshooting activities.
• Develop test procedures, operating procedures, and technical documentation.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from a program accredited by ABET and 2 years of relevant experience (Level 2), or an advanced degree in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from a program accredited by ABET and 0 years of relevant experience.
• Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from a program accredited by ABET and 5 years of relevant experience (Level 3), or an advanced degree in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from a program accredited by ABET and 2 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in the research, development, qualification, and deployment of liquid metal technologies, including Lead Lithium (PbLi) for fusion energy breeding blanket technologies and advanced nuclear reactor systems.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Advanced degree in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from a program accredited by ABET.
• Experience in nuclear fuels and materials, reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, core design, and analysis tools/methods.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment.
• Requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms.
• Requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle.
• Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds without assistance.
• Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Pay

Level 2: $79,344 - $162,732

Level 3: $95,256 - $195,288

At Idaho National Laboratory, compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

Schedule

9x80 schedule located out of the REC facility with every other Friday off.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package

Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

About Us

Idaho National Laboratory is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities, and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate, and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options, and critical infrastructure.

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.