Senior Technical Expert - Nuclear Material Testing and Analysis Facility

SGS • State College, PA

110d

About The Position

SGS recently acquired MP Machinery and Testing, LLC (MPM), and we are looking for a Senior Technical Expert, Nuclear Material Testing and Analysis Facility. We are seeking a highly qualified PhD-level Technical Expert to serve as the primary scientific and engineering authority for MP Machinery's operations. This role is responsible for guiding our testing methodologies, overseeing technical compliance, leading research and development initiatives, and ensuring our services meet or exceed industry standards—particularly in the nuclear and high-reliability sectors. The ideal candidate will combine deep subject matter expertise in materials science, mechanical engineering, or nuclear engineering with strong problem-solving skills, leadership ability, and the desire to work alongside a highly skilled technical team. MPM was founded in 2009 with the mission to advance industry standards through advanced testing and test development. Located in State College, Pennsylvania, USA, MPM is a leader in the field of high material testing and analysis, specializing in the nuclear sector. As an advanced testing laboratory, MPM is renowned for its ability to develop and standardize new tests that often become industry benchmarks. The company's core expertise lies in testing materials needed to operate nuclear facilities, where they cater to high-profile clients, including small modular reactor developers and existing power generation utilities. MPM not only tests materials but also designs and manufactures the specialized equipment needed for these tests, emphasizing their dual competence in both service and production. MPM's capabilities are extensive and include the development, deployment, and analysis of mechanical properties for radioactive materials, alongside specialized services such as neutron transport analysis, failure analysis, and surveillance capsule testing. As a trusted partner, MPM has exclusive contracts with major industry leaders and has a notable presence in national and international nuclear projects. At MPM, innovation is at the forefront of what we do. We are committed to providing our clients with cutting-edge solutions that enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency. Our dedicated team of experts uses a blend of traditional and innovative methods to deliver exceptional results that consistently exceed expectations. Driven by our corporate motto, 'Serving client needs through advanced technology,' MPM continues to be at the forefront of technological advancement, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the testing domain.

Requirements

• PhD in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Metallurgy, or a closely related field.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in materials testing, fracture mechanics, nuclear engineering, or highly complex technical and quality assurance driven industries.
• Expert-level understanding of fracture mechanics, fatigue, corrosion, and high-temperature material behavior.
• Demonstrated experience with ASTM, ASME, and nuclear regulatory codes.
• Proven track record of technical leadership in an R&D or laboratory environment.
• Strong communication skills—able to explain complex concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to identify, target, and execute growth strategies.
• Ability to foster close client relationships.
• Can-do attitude, willing to roll up sleeves or present to senior leadership.
• Commercially minded - can understand the needs of clients and flush out a value proposition based on client feedback.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a laboratory accredited, e.g., ISO/IEC 17025.
• Background in the design and manufacture of custom test equipment.
• Hands-on experience with Charpy impact testing, tensile testing, creep testing, or corrosion testing in harsh environments.
• Existing relationships with the NRC, DOE, or nuclear utilities.

Responsibilities

• Serve as MP Machinery and Testing's lead technical resource for all materials testing, analysis, and equipment design questions.
• Review, validate, and approve technical methodologies, calculations, results, and reports for customer deliverables.
• Ensure testing processes comply with nuclear industry codes, ASTM standards, ASME specifications, and customer requirements.
• Lead development of new testing capabilities and innovative equipment designs.
• Oversee technology transfer from research and development into production testing and manufacturing.
• Evaluate and integrate new analysis tools, sensors, and instrumentation.
• Participate in relevant industry working groups on behalf of MP Machinery and Testing.
• Provide technical guidance during proposal development, customer meetings, and project kickoffs.
• Serve as a trusted technical advisor to key clients in nuclear, aerospace, and highly complex technical and quality assurance driven industries.
• Support root cause failure analyses, material property investigations, and complex problem resolution.
• Coach and mentor engineers, technicians, and project managers in materials science and testing principles.
• Develop and execute internal technical training programs.
• Assist engineers and technicians in solving technical challenges.
• Support quality compliance and continuous improvement efforts.
• Stay current with industry research, regulatory changes, and emerging technologies.

Benefits

• Creative Freedom - Direct influence over research and development priorities and the technical roadmap.
• High-Impact Work - Your expertise will directly shape testing methodologies and product designs used in nuclear power plants, aerospace systems, and other high-reliability applications worldwide.
• Close-Knit Culture - Small enough for your voice to matter, big enough to deliver on bold ideas.
• Global Support Network - Access to SGS's worldwide network of laboratories, scientists, and technical resources.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree