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Nuclear Fuel Performance and Mechanical Engineer

Remote

At Lightbridge, we’re pioneering advanced nuclear fuel technology that’s designed to make reactors safer, more efficient, and more responsive to global energy needs. Our mission is bold and we’re looking for equally bold thinkers to help us bring it to life. If you thrive at the intersection of engineering and regulatory strategy, this is your opportunity to help shape the future of clean energy.

Overview:

This is a multilevel, full-time remote role for a Principal/Senior Nuclear Fuels/Mechanical Engineer. The Nuclear/Mechanical Engineer will perform fuel performance simulations related to rods and assembly level, assembly level conceptual design, extrusion simulations to model fabrication processes, and/or code development for fuel performance applications and Lightbridge Fuel. This work will be used in various types of water-cooled reactors, in support of qualifying and licensing Lightbridge Fuel.

Responsibilities

  • Performing simulations & analyses to optimize the Lightbridge Fuel design for various reactor types for various fuel cycle objectives (e.g. improved safety margins, burnup extension, power uprates, load-follow operation, waste volume reduction).
  • Developing & implementing code, methods, and models of fuel performance codes and benchmarking these simulations.
  • Performing calculations and simulations to inform design, execution, and analysis of in-pile and out-of-pile experiments and other analyses performed by partner organizations.
  • Performing independent reviews of fuel performance and finite element method (FEM) simulations and analyses performed by other Lightbridge staff or partner organizations, as necessary.
  • Working collaboratively with other Lightbridge staff to determine engineering approach to simulations/analyses necessary to support development and licensing of Lightbridge Fuel.
  • Documenting simulations and analysis in engineering reports.
  • Reporting results of selected simulations/analyses in peer-reviewed or popular publications.
  • Contributing to reports to support regulatory submittals of Lightbridge Fuel.
  • Mentor junior staff.

Required Experience:

  • Principal:
    • BS Degree in Nuclear Engineering or closely related field + 14 years relevant experience, or MS Degree in Nuclear Engineering or closely related field + 12 years relevant experience, or PhD in Nuclear Engineering or closely related field + 10 years relevant experience. For exceptional candidates, fewer years of relevant work experience will be considered.
  • Senior:
    • BS and 5+ years, MS and 4+ years, or PhD Degree and 3+ years relevant work experience in the areas of nuclear or mechanical engineering. For exceptional candidates, fewer years of relevant work experience will be considered.
  • Extensive experience with modelling and simulation using at least one of the codes/frameworks: BISON/MOOSE, ABAQUS, ANSYS, DEFORM, SOLIDWORKS. Experience in both implicit and explicit FEM codes is preferred; multiple frameworks are excellent.
  • Working experience developing thermal-mechanical simulations to support fuel performance analysis and core reloads.
  • Working knowledge of neutronics/core design, fuel performance, and/or seismic analysis and from across these areas.
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to pass background check and pre-employment drug screening.
  • Ability to access US National Labs and other relevant facilities where Lightbridge projects are conducted.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Strong knowledge of reactor physics, mechanical design, and nuclear fuel design.
  • Experience in the area of metallic nuclear fuels, especially U-Zr and materials science, is advantageous.
  • Familiarity with ASME Nuclear Quality Assurance (NQA-1) requirements.
  • Experience with fabrication processes is advantageous.
  • Development experience for subroutines and code objects to interact with FEM codes is excellent.
  • Experience working closely with industry, national laboratories, and nuclear regulators is advantageous.
  • Experience designing nuclear assemblies for PWRs/BWRs.

Lightbridge is committed to supporting the people who power our mission. We offer a comprehensive, competitive benefits program designed to promote well‑being, flexibility, and long‑term growth, including:

•     Competitive salary and performance bonuses, including cash and equity awards
•     Remote‑first work culture with opportunities for travel
•     100% company‑paid health, dental, and vision coverage
•     401(k) with 100% company match
•     Generous time off and family care benefits
•     Up to 32 hours per year of company‑covered professional development course fees


If you’re excited about contributing to work that will help shape the future of clean energy, we encourage you to apply. We look forward to learning more about you and the impact you can make at Lightbridge.

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