Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

The Engineer is responsible for design of mechanical and structural components that form part of SMR‑160 plant and for leading a team of junior engineers and draftsmen. The Engineer will be part of the multidisciplinary team whose combined research, creative, and technical expertise add value throughout a collaborative product development process.

The Engineer will work alongside engineers, designers, and analysts in a dynamic development environment. The Engineer participates in the daily activities of the Mechanical Engineering team, creating feasible/practical solutions to challenging design problems. The Engineer is hands-on in the mechanical design of innovative components by delivering on mechanical conceptualization, requirements development, detailed development, engineering analysis and technical documentation. This range of work, on one project or multiple projects, will ensure that each day brings new challenging problems that pushes the limit of one’s capabilities.

The Engineer must be eager to learn new skills (Corporate “centers of excellence” will provide appropriate training and guidance) and apply them to design development. The Engineer must possess a keen understanding of mechanical engineering methodologies and tools in order to lead, mentor, and grow a capable team of engineers to efficiently deliver the SMR-160 design.

The Engineer will also be part of a growing team recently awarded funding as part of the Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program.

Specific Areas of Responsibility:

• Coordinate with project leadership to develop and execute mechanical engineering activities in support of SMR-160 development, including scope development, work planning, organization, and progress reporting. 
• Perform full spectrum of design engineering activities for nuclear grade and commercial grade mechanical equipment and structures.
• Prepare and review engineering calculations, technical reports, functional and requirements specifications, design specifications, drawings, and other engineering work products.
• Prepare sketches and other conceptual design information for subsequent development.
• Perform independent verification, validation, and oversight of engineering activities.
• Develop and maintain SMR standards and conduct of engineering methods in functional area.
• Plan, organize, lead, and perform complex assignments in a team environment.
• Support and manage procurement of contracted services and equipment.
• Provide mentoring and technical direction to less experienced engineers.
• Prepare and deliver technical presentations to internal and external organizations, including for regulatory interactions for which the Engineer will provide subject matter expertise.
• Prepare internal work authorizations (scope, resource estimate and schedule).
• Interface with, receive input from, and lead subcontractors and colleagues including other subject matter experts.
• Applicants should be prepared to play an active role in a project-driven and highly integrated engineering team.

Minimum Requirements:

• BS in mechanical, nuclear, or closely related field of engineering.
• 10 years of experience in the field or in a related area.
• 5 years of nuclear experience (e.g. NSSS vendor, EPC, utility, engineering consulting, etc.).
• 5 years of design experience with use of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code for design of vessels, heat exchangers, internals and other components.
• Effective communication, organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and capable of producing error-free documents.
• Demonstrated good judgment, ability to act independently, flexibility, adaptability and leadership skills.
• Ability to plan and organize work tasks and meet deadlines
• Strong math, analytical, problem-solving, and computer skills.
• Working knowledge of mechanical design (CAD tools SolidWorks and AutoCAD) and analytical tools (ANSYS and PV Elite).
• Eligible to work under 10 CFR Part 810. 

Desired Qualifications:

• MS or PhD in mechanical, nuclear, or closely related field of engineering.
• P.E. License.
• Experience in using FEA simulation to support product development.
• Experience working with fabricators/constructors to develop practical and cost-effective designs.
• Experience with the SmartPlant software suite.
• Experience in commercial nuclear or naval nuclear design.
• Subject matter expertise with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section III.
• Comprehensive knowledge of U.S. Nuclear Regulations and Guidance from 10 CFR 50; 10 CFR 52; NUREG-0800 Chapters 3, 4, 5, and 6; and nuclear quality assurance.