Mechanical Test Engineer

Kairos Power • Alameda, CA

16h • $122,300 - $143,800 • Onsite

About The Position

Kairos Power is a new nuclear energy technology and engineering company whose mission is to enable the world’s transition to clean energy, with the ultimate goal to dramatically improve people’s quality of life while protecting the environment. This goal will be accomplished through the commercialization of the fluoride-salt-cooled, high-temperature reactor (FHR) that can be deployed with robust safety, affordable costs, and flexible operation to accommodate the expansion of variable renewables. Job Summary Kairos Power is seeking a Mechanical Test Engineer with experience designing, building, and operating complex systems that integrate mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical components. This role focuses on the development of test systems that support the advancement of Kairos Power’s nuclear reactor subsystems. The ideal candidate will contribute to both conceptual and detailed design efforts across multiple engineering domains and must be proficient in mechanical CAD with a strong understanding of engineering fundamentals. We’re looking for a collaborative, hands-on, and detail-oriented engineer who enjoys working in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
• 3+ years of relevant industry experience in mechanical system design, prototyping, or testing.
• Proficient in mechanical CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred).
• Experience working collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams.
• Experience with systems that integrate pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical system components.
• Experience with lab instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and control systems.
• Experience with mechanism design, assembly, and development.
• Experience with manufacturing techniques and processes.
• Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals and design principles across thermal, fluid, and mechanical domains.
• Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
• Proficiency with CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred).
• Working knowledge of engineering drawing standards (e.g., GD&T).
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable working in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in regulated industries such as nuclear or aerospace is a plus.
• Familiarity with engineering analysis tools (e.g., FEA, CFD, heat transfer, kinematic analysis, system modeling, circuit simulation).

Responsibilities

• Design and develop thermal, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical systems used in test, prototyping, and operational environments.
• Create and revise engineering drawings and models for components and assemblies using CAD tools.
• Collaborate with engineers, lab technicians, and manufacturing staff to implement and maintain test systems.
• Assist with the fabrication, assembly, and troubleshooting of test setups and hardware.
• Support test operations by monitoring equipment performance and collecting data.
• Develop and write procedures and documentation for test execution and system operation.
• Prepare technical reports that summarize test results and that identify opportunities for design improvement.
• Lead and contribute to design reviews, incorporating feedback to improve system performance reliability.
• Support continuous improvement of engineering processes and documentation standards.
• Engage in professional development activities, including technical learning and peer collaboration.
• Support other duties as assigned, including occasional travel.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation packages
• Medical, dental and vision benefits for employees and their dependents
• Paid Vacation
• 401(k) and pre-tax health insurance, dependent care, and commuter benefits (FSA)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees