Nuclear Commissioning Engineer

TFE•Oak Ridge, TN

About The Position

TFE, Inc. is seeking Nuclear Commissioning Engineers at multiple levels. The role bridges construction and full-scale operations by planning, executing, and documenting testing and commissioning for complex nuclear systems, process equipment, and safety-critical components. The engineer ensures systems are safely transitioned into service in compliance with engineering specifications, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. The role includes developing and carrying out commissioning plans and test procedures; managing turnover from construction to operations; overseeing functional, factory acceptance, and site acceptance testing; maintaining nuclear safety and quality assurance compliance; resolving system issues; and coordinating with construction, engineering, operations, quality, and regulatory teams. Levels include Junior, Mid-level, Lead, and SME, with minimum experience requirements varying by level.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Nuclear, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline; an equivalent combination of education and extensive nuclear experience may be considered.
Experience in nuclear power generation, government nuclear facilities, or heavily regulated high-hazard industrial environments.
Minimum experience by level: Junior, 3–5 years; Mid-level, 5–10 years; Lead, 10+ years; SME, 15+ years.
Demonstrated experience in nuclear system testing, startup operations, or component commissioning.
Ability to read, interpret, and work from complex P&IDs, electrical one-lines, logic diagrams, and instrument loop drawings.
Deep understanding of nuclear safety standards, Conduct of Operations, and work control processes.
Ability to access all areas of a nuclear or industrial site, including climbing stairs and ladders and walking on uneven surfaces.
May need to wear personal protective equipment, including respirators or anti-contamination clothing.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working within DOE- or NRC-regulated facilities.
Familiarity with ASME NQA-1 Quality Assurance requirements.
Professional Engineer (PE) license or specific system certifications.
Ability to obtain DOE Q Clearance or an active Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

Develop, review, and execute commissioning plans, pre-operational test procedures, and startup protocols for nuclear facility systems.
Manage system turnover from construction to operations, including preparing, tracking, and closing punch lists and final documentation packages.
Oversee and document cold and hot functional testing, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
Ensure commissioning activities comply with nuclear safety culture guidelines, Quality Assurance programs such as ASME NQA-1, and applicable NRC or DOE regulations.
Identify, document, and troubleshoot system anomalies, design discrepancies, and non-conformances; coordinate root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
Coordinate with construction contractors, design engineering, plant operations, quality control, and regulatory reviewers.