Position Overview:As our High Temp Thermo-Mechanical Properties Test Lead, you will be part of a team assisting multiple nuclear development projects in Lynchburg, VA. The individual will be responsible for defining standard test methodologies, performing materials testing, and mentoring peers; while supporting a wide variety of programs for space, defense, and commercial customers.
Location: On-site in Lynchburg, VA at the Advanced Technologies Office
Your Day to Day as a High Thermo-Mechanical Properties Test Lead: - Develop and implement material characterization methodologies and testing capabilities focused on thermo-physical properties, including temperature-dependent diffusivity, heat capacity, coefficient of thermal expansion, and mechanical strength.
- Operate and maintain a high temperature mechanical testing furnace along with a suite of characterization instruments such as Laser Flash Analysis (LFA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA), and Dilatometry to evaluate novel nuclear fuel forms.
- Perform thermo-physical property characterization on samples from diverse R&D and prototype production programs.
- Collaborate closely with materials scientists, chemical engineers, and other stakeholders to identify and apply appropriate characterization techniques that provide critical data to support R&D objectives.
- Mentor and support the broader team in the characterization of ceramics, metals, composites, and nuclear fuel materials.
- Support the operations manager in the build-out, commissioning, and safety documentation for the testing facility.
Required Qualifications:- A minimum of a bachelor's degree in engineering (e.g. Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, Nuclear Engineer, Chemical Engineer) or Physics is required.
- A minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience is required.
- Must have strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to multi-task.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is required.
Preferred Qualifications:- MS or PhD in materials science, chemistry, or a related field is highly desired.
- Strong background in characterization of inorganic materials, including nuclear materials, metals, ceramics, and composites.
- Experience with ASTM standards for thermo-physical property testing.
- Familiarity with ISO or NQA-1 quality programs for materials testing.
- Hands-on experience or foundational knowledge in thermal diffusivity (LFA), calorimetry (DSC/STA), dilatometry, and mechanical testing at elevated temperatures exceeding 1200 6C (2240 6F).
What We Offer:- Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
- Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work-life balance.
- Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
- An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
- The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
- Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!
Pay: $99,000.00 - $157,000.00
The base salary range for this position in Virginia (US-VA) at the start of employment is expected to be between $99,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year. However, the base salary offered is based on local job market factors, and may vary further depending on factors specific to the selected job candidate, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to these considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, such as an annual cash incentive in addition to a full range of medical, retirement, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided at such time the selected job candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, the selected job candidate will be employed 'at-will,' unless employed at a location and in a position subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The company further reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment, compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and other market factors.
