Chemical Engineer (Thorium Metallurgy & Chemistry)
About The Position
AMPERA is redefining clean, sovereign energy with compact, ultra-safe nuclear systems that power AI, industry, and defense with zero emissions and unmatched reliability. Our modular micro-reactors combine the best of fusion and fission to deliver scalable, deployable, and inherently safe energy anywhere — from AI data centers to remote or defense operations. As a fast-growing company, AMPERA merges the agility of a startup with the ambition of a global energy leader. Joining us means becoming part of a bold mission to revolutionize how the world generates and delivers power through advanced thorium fuel chemistry, nuclear metallurgy, and next-generation materials science. AMPERA is seeking a Chemical Engineer with deep expertise in thorium metallurgy, fuel chemistry, and chemical process engineering to lead the development of AMPERA’s thorium-based fuel cycle. This role will focus on the synthesis, purification, and metallurgical processing of thorium and associated fuel compounds for use in hybrid fission-fusion micro-reactors. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in molten salt chemistry, actinide metallurgy, fuel reprocessing, and high-temperature chemical systems, as well as familiarity with nuclear-grade material qualification and safety standards.
Requirements
- Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or Nuclear Chemistry.
- 7+ years of experience in thorium or actinide chemistry, nuclear materials processing, or metallurgical R&D.
- Strong knowledge of high-temperature thermochemistry, reduction processes, and alloy formation.
- Familiarity with radiation safety protocols, glove box handling, and contamination control.
- Excellent analytical, documentation, and problem-solving skills.
- U.S. citizenship or eligibility for security clearance may be required.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with molten salt systems, fuel reprocessing, or metal refining preferred.
Responsibilities
- Lead thorium and actinide chemistry R&D, including oxide reduction, alloy formation, and purification processes.
- Develop and optimize metallurgical processes for thorium-based fuels and structural materials under inert and reducing atmospheres.
- Design and operate experimental setups involving high-temperature furnaces, glove boxes, and corrosion-resistant systems.
- Characterize chemical and physical properties of thorium compounds (e.g., ThO₂, ThF₄, Th-U alloys) using analytical and spectroscopic methods.
- Collaborate with fuel development and materials teams to integrate thorium fuels with TRISO and LMJ-based fabrication systems.
- Perform thermodynamic and kinetic modeling to support process scale-up and reactor integration.
- Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and radiological safety standards (DOE, NRC, EPA).
- Document and present research results, contributing to fuel qualification and licensing efforts.
- Mentor junior engineers and support cross-functional collaboration between chemical, materials, and reactor teams.
Benefits
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Competitive salary
- Dental insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
- Donation matching
- Employee discounts
- Health insurance
- Opportunity for advancement
- Wellness resources
- Comprehensive benefits package including healthcare, dental, vision, STD, LTD, Life/AD&D and 401(k).
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
