Senior Nuclear Facility Engineer

About the role

Kairos Power is a new nuclear energy technology and engineering company focused on developing fluoride-salt-cooled, high-temperature reactors (FHR) to provide clean energy solutions. The Reactor Vessel Auxiliary Systems team seeks a Senior Engineer to join the Reactor Systems department.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage the 3D layout and spatial integration of all components within the reactor cavity including reactor vessel and support systems, instrumentation, shielding, and maintenance interfaces.
• Carefully coordinate with mechanical, civil, and I&C design teams to define spatial, thermal, and functional interfaces between the reactor vessel, cavity systems, and bio-shield.
• Lead design integration reviews to ensure structures, systems, and component designs are compatible and accessible for installation and maintenance.
• Develop and implement standardized layouts, component interfaces, and remote maintenance connection strategies to streamline manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance operations.
• Regularly interface and communicate component requirements with other disciplinary teams including nuclear design, reactor systems, reactor coolant auxiliary systems, safety analysis, remote handling, and manufacturing.
• Perform design verification and validation activities to ensure system performance meets functional and safety requirements.
• Contribute to hazard and failure analyses (HAZOP, FMEA, FTA) and incorporate safety insights into design iterations.
• Participate in configuration management by maintaining design baselines, revision control, and traceability of changes.
• Participate in peer design reviews and technical audits to ensure compliance with quality and performance objectives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Mechanical, Nuclear, or Systems Engineering (or related discipline).
• 5+ years of experience in nuclear plant design, system integration or complex facility layout.
• Proven ability to lead cross-disciplinary integration and resolve technical and spatial conflicts.
• Demonstrated experience in system integration, equipment layout and standardization, and 3D CAD model management.
• Experience in reactor component fabrication and life cycle management processes including equipment qualification, in-service inspection, and other programs.
• Experience with configuration management systems or PLM tools.
• Experience with prototype or test rig development for mechanical systems.
• Experience working to a quality standard, such as ASME NQA-1 or ISO 9001.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Familiarity with applicable codes and standards such as ASME B&PV Section VIII Division 1 and 2, and Section III Division 5.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD design and tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AVEVA or equivalent) and engineering analysis tools for thermal and structural modeling.
• Knowledge of FEA and CFD methods and ability to apply results to mechanical design decisions.
• Ability to interpret and apply industry standards and codes (ASME, ANSI, ASTM, ASME BPVC).
• Knowledge of system safety and reliability analysis methods such as FMEA and HAZOP.
• Knowledge of configuration management and design control processes.
• Experience with design and analysis of high-temperature and/or molten salt-wetted components under irradiation is a plus.
• Ability to apply systems-thinking to evaluate interdependencies across reactor subsystems.
• Strong analytical problem-solving abilities to resolve complex design issues efficiently.
• Flexibility to consistently deliver tangible results in a rapid and dynamic work environment.
• Self-motivated with strong time management skills and ownership mentality.
• Capability to mentor and train junior engineers and interns.
• Excellent verbal, written communication/presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work with highly collaborative team.
• Ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently.
• Prioritizes and ensures safety of oneself and others.
• Ability to proactively collect, manage and transfer knowledge.
• Ability to seek different and novel ways to create efficiencies when working on problems, challenges and issues.

Physical Conditions

• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting, for prolonged periods.
• Adjusting, moving, transporting, installing, positioning, or removing objects up to 30 pounds in all directions.
• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, scissor lifts, articulated boom lifts and the like.
• Working with hand tools to assemble equipment and hardware as necessary.

Environmental Conditions

• General office environment
• Laboratory environment

Safety and PPE

• Reading and interpreting hazardous warning signs
• Reporting issues with equipment or unsafe conditions
• Wearing proper PPE, to include face mask, face shields, gloves, safety shoes, etc.

Travel

• Some travel may be required (10%)

Additional Requirements

• Occasionally requires schedule flexibility
• Occasionally requires extended hours to support launch and critical project timelines

About our Benefits

We offer competitive compensation packages, medical, dental, and vision benefits for employees and their dependents, paid vacation, and 401(k) and pre-tax health insurance, dependent care, and commuter benefits (FSA).

Our Commitment to Diversity

Kairos Power is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce that reflects the communities where we do business. We actively welcome people of different experiences, abilities, and perspectives.

Employer Information

Kairos Power participates in E-Verify.