Principal Engineer

About the role

As the need for nuclear energy grows, the future couldn’t be brighter. Join our vital mission to create lasting solutions for our planet’s greatest challenges. In this role you will shape the future of clean energy and make a long‑lasting global impact, working on engaging and challenging projects that deliver innovative solutions and value‑added technologies powering more than 38 million North American homes. The BWR Robotics Engineer position is based in Lynchburg, VA, within the NDE Solutions Business Line of the Installed Base Business Unit. You will be part of the Nondestructive Examinations (NDE) Engineering organization, which designs tooling and complex robotic systems for visual, ultrasonic, and eddy‑current inspections of nuclear plants worldwide. This role serves as the Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) lead, mentors staff on BWR plant knowledge, designs and reviews tooling for BWR inspections, supports new proposals, and assists on‑site with BWR inspection work across the United States.

Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of complex engineering assignments in design, development, analysis, evaluation, testing, specification preparation, field task execution, and resolution of field problems.
• Conduct independent reviews of department work products, risk assessments, apparent cause analyses, root cause analyses, failure modes and effects analyses, etc.
• Propose solutions and work scope to the supervisor; work autonomously on most assignments and solutions.
• Ensure compliance with government regulations, organizational, industry, and customer engineering standards.
• Independently evaluate, select, and apply technical techniques, procedures, and criteria, using judgment for adaptations and modifications on previously unperformed tasks.
• Develop new or adapted products, methods, systems, or models to provide added‑value solutions to customers.
• Understand the impact of work on other internal and external organizations.
• Work on special projects as directed.
• Provide suggestions for process improvements and implement them.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (degrees in Physics, Engineering Technology, or Engineering Science may also be accepted).
• Minimum of 7 years of related experience.
• At least 5 years of experience working at or performing design work for a Boiling Water Reactor (BWR).
• Advanced knowledge of related engineering standards, techniques, and criteria.
• Excellent communication skills to comprehend and convey detailed technical data.
• Developed network and strong interpersonal relationships; collaborative team player.
• Advanced problem identification and resolution skills.
• Demonstrated leadership characteristics.
• Questioning attitude and self‑checking practices.
• Advanced proficiency with specialized software tools and programming languages as required.
• Experience designing mechanical or electrical tooling, robotics, or control systems (preferred).
• Hands‑on assembly, testing, and troubleshooting skills and interest (preferred).
• Highly organized with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities concurrently with tight turnaround schedules.

Benefits

• Salary range $115,000 – $156,000, with potential annual incentives and performance bonuses; total compensation varies based on qualifications, skill level, competencies, and location.
• 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.

About Framatome

Framatome has been shaping the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. for more than 60 years. Headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, Framatome employs over 2,400 people across North America, supporting nearly every nuclear plant in the nation. From facilities in Virginia, Washington, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and beyond, we deliver outage services, advanced nuclear fuel technologies, and next‑gen reactor innovations that keep the lights on. At Framatome you will join a global team committed to reliable, carbon‑free energy, solving complex nuclear challenges that directly impact the climate, building your career through technical fellowships, leadership roles, and global opportunities, all within a culture that values safety, innovation, and well‑being.