Principal Engineer, Core Thermal Hydraulics Methods and Analysis

TerraPower LLC.•Bellevue, WA

2d•$143,101 - $185,846

About The Position

TerraPower is seeking a Principal Engineer to develop and apply thermal-hydraulic analysis methods, perform code validation, use first-principles calculations, and work with multidisciplinary teams to address reactor-core design challenges and support testing programs. Reporting to the Manager of Core Thermal Hydraulics Methods and Analysis, the role provides technical recommendations through formal documentation and presentations. It calls for strong analytical skills, expertise with nuclear systems codes, and the ability to manage multiple complex tasks concurrently. The Principal Engineer exercises independent technical judgment, leads resolution of complex engineering issues, helps define project work scopes, and leads cross-disciplinary analysis of reactor and component thermal and mechanical design considerations. The role also provides technical leadership through mentoring, establishing technical direction, and reviewing engineering work for rigor, quality, and procedural compliance. TerraPower is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The position is based in Washington State for salary-range purposes. The company notes that its technology is subject to U.S. Government export controls and that applicants may be asked to provide information for export-control review.

Requirements

At least 6 years of related experience with a bachelor's degree, or 3 years with a master's degree. A Ph.D. without commercial experience may be acceptable with relevant research or expertise.
Demonstrated ability to participate on a multidisciplinary team of engineers.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work on multiple tasks concurrently during a given work week.
Excellent writing and communication skills.
High degree of trustworthiness and integrity, open communication, respect, and a desire to foster teamwork.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in Python or C++.
Experience with a nuclear systems code or subchannel analysis code, such as RELAP, SASSYS, GOTHIC, or VIPRE-01.
Experience analyzing nuclear reactor core subchannels.
Experience with low-Prandtl-number heat-transfer analysis.
Experience with high-temperature thermal-fluid systems, such as sodium.

Responsibilities

Develop and apply thermal-hydraulic analysis methods, including steady-state and transient one-dimensional network hydraulic analyses, and identify and implement strategies for validating analytical methods.
Perform computational analysis of in-core steady-state thermal-hydraulic phenomena.
Perform code benchmarking and validation analyses to support code qualification and methodology development.
Perform first-principles calculations in heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics to support and validate analysis results.
Integrate with engineering groups working on component, system, fuel, and control-system analysis and related thermal-hydraulic testing.
Support development of testing programs for reactor cores and components.
Exercise independent technical judgment and decision-making within delegated authority and lead resolution of complex, high-impact engineering issues spanning systems or disciplines.
Contribute to project planning by defining work scopes for the project critical path.
Lead cross-disciplinary teams analyzing thermal and mechanical design considerations for reactor and component safety.
Present analyses to the broader team and provide periodic updates to leadership.
Prepare informal and formal reports documenting findings and reasoned recommendations, and report to the core thermal-hydraulic team manager or lead.
Mentor and guide engineers, establish technical direction, and review engineering work products for technical rigor, quality, and compliance with applicable procedures.