Space Nuclear Engineer

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory•Richland, WA

14h•Onsite

About The Position

The Nuclear Signatures Group within PNNL is seeking a space reactor subject matter expert. The group focuses on nuclear explosion monitoring, safeguards, emergency response, and arms control, with an emphasis on radiation detection. Space security is an emerging area for the group. In addition to fundamental engineering analysis, design, and materials expertise, a successful candidate will have specialized knowledge in applying nuclear technologies to space applications, particularly compact fission reactor systems designed to produce electricity in orbit or on the surface of another moon or planet. Familiarity with betavoltaic devices and/or radioisotope power systems is a plus. Envisioned work activities include technical project leadership and management, business development, and technical task execution related to space nuclear design, testing, security, and safety.

Requirements

BS/BA and 5+ years of relevant experience -OR- MS/MA and 3+ years of relevant experience -OR- PhD with 1+ year of relevant experience
U.S. Citizenship
Ability to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.
Background Investigation: Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter in accordance with 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.
Drug Testing: All Security Clearance positions are Testing Designated Positions, which means that the applicant selected for hire is subject to pre-employment drug testing, and post-employment random drug testing. In addition, applicants must be able to demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs, including marijuana, for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the requisite Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP).
Experience with technical project leadership is required.

Nice To Haves

PhD in mechanical, nuclear, aerospace, materials, or systems engineering and related 5+ years of space nuclear power applied research or industry experience.
Application-oriented R&D or applied technology development on space nuclear reactors or related components
Solid oral and written communication skills, including detailed technical and scientific writing ability to convey complex information accurately.
Ability to develop technical solutions to a variety of problems with a highly complex scope, based on national policies and industry standards.
Experience with business development and sponsor relationship management is strongly desired.
Experience with spacecraft/satellite research, development, design, and operations is a plus.
Familiarity with betavoltaic devices and/or radioisotope power systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

Serve as a subject matter expert in space nuclear technologies, developing technical concepts, strategies, and solutions that advance national security missions related to space and nuclear systems.
Lead multidisciplinary research and engineering efforts from concept development through execution, providing technical leadership to project teams and ensuring successful delivery of project objectives.
Apply advanced engineering judgment to solve complex technical problems, evaluate emerging technologies, and develop innovative solutions in areas related to nuclear systems, radiation effects, and space applications.
Identify new technical opportunities and help shape future research directions by developing technical strategies, white papers, proposals, and collaborations that expand the program portfolio.
Build and maintain effective partnerships with internal and external collaborators, sponsors, and stakeholders to advance technical capabilities and mission outcomes.
Communicate technical results through reports, presentations, proposals, and peer-reviewed publications while maintaining the highest standards of scientific integrity, quality, and security.
Handle sensitive and classified information in accordance with applicable security requirements.