As a Fuel Performance Engineer, you will lead the assessment of both existing and next-generation fuel designs for advanced reactor systems. Your work will center on evaluating performance across normal and off-normal scenarios, using high-fidelity modeling and simulation to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability.
Key Responsibilities
- Evaluate fuel behavior under a wide range of operational and transient conditions using multi-physics simulations
- Develop and refine analysis methods to strengthen design confidence, including creating custom modeling tools
- Validate simulation software against experimental data to ensure accuracy and regulatory readiness
- Support fuel testing initiatives by providing analytical insights and performance predictions
- Work closely with reactor design, fabrication, and licensing teams to inform technical decisions
- Produce clear, well-structured technical documentation and reports using modern engineering practices
Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in engineering and at least three years of relevant experience are required. You should have hands-on experience with finite element analysis tools such as Ansys or Abaqus, and be proficient in object-oriented programming, particularly Python or C++. Background in material behavior and structural analysis is essential.
Preferred candidates will bring direct experience in nuclear fuel performance modeling, familiarity with metallic fuel systems, and prior use of specialized codes like BISON or LIFE-METAL. Fluency in Python is highly valued for tool development and automation.
Work Environment
This is a hybrid role based in Santa Clara, CA. Remote team members are expected to visit the site quarterly, and the first two weeks of onboarding require in-person attendance. The environment emphasizes collaboration, technical rigor, and a shared commitment to advancing clean energy solutions.
Compensation & Benefits
The salary range for this position is $120,000 to $165,000, with equity included. Additional benefits include competitive pay, a 401k plan, health insurance, a flexible spending account (FSA), and flexible work hours. The culture supports continuous learning and professional growth through real-world problem solving and innovation.
Core Values
- Collaboration: We succeed by integrating diverse viewpoints, listening deeply, and working across disciplines with shared accountability.
- Humility: We prioritize mission impact over personal recognition and act in the best interest of the team and society.
- Ownership: We take responsibility from concept to completion, delivering on commitments with integrity and care.
- Pathfinding: We embrace uncertainty with curiosity and creativity, forging new paths where none exist.
