Nuclear Space Reactor Engineer

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking a Nuclear Space Reactor Engineer to support and lead the design, development, and deployment of advanced reactor systems, including space nuclear propulsion and surface power technologies. This position plays a critical role in advancing national capabilities in space nuclear systems in partnership with DOE, NASA, DoD, and industry.

This is a multi-level position. Candidates will be placed at the appropriate level based on demonstrated technical expertise, leadership, and impact. INL is particularly interested in candidates who bring deep experience in reactor system design and integration, and who have contributed to or led major national programs in advanced or space nuclear technologies.

The selected candidate will lead technical efforts in space nuclear propulsion (NTP/NEP), compact reactor systems, and associated technologies supporting lunar and deep space missions. This role includes responsibilities spanning reactor design, thermal-fluid systems, fuel performance, and system integration, as well as collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams and national partners.

This position includes responsibility for defining technical direction, leading complex programs, and shaping INL's role in national space nuclear initiatives.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities:

• Apply advanced nuclear engineering principles to the design and analysis of space reactor systems.
• Develop and validate reactor physics, thermal-fluid, and fuel performance models.
• Perform integrated system analyses supporting safety, irradiation testing, fuel qualification, and mission requirements.
• Establish design, testing, inspection, and quality requirements for reactor systems and components.
• Ensure alignment between design, fabrication, and system integration activities.
• Prepare technical reports, peer-reviewed publications, and presentations.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners including DOE, NASA, DoD, industry, and national laboratories.

• Support program execution and technical deliverables.

  Additional Responsibilities - Directorate Fellow, (Level 6)

• Provide technical leadership for major reactor development programs, including space nuclear propulsion and surface power systems.
• Lead multi-disciplinary and multi-institution collaborations across government, industry, and national laboratories.
• Define and guide technical strategy and system architecture for advanced nuclear technologies.
• Serve as a recognized subject matter expert, advising INL leadership and external stakeholders.
• Represent INL in national and multi-agency technical forums, contributing to program direction and strategy.
• Identify and develop new program opportunities, sponsors, and mission areas aligned with national priorities.
• Mentor and develop technical staff, strengthening INL's technical workforce and capabilities.
  

Required:

Level 5 - Distinguished Staff Member

• Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or related field with 14+ years of relevant experience; OR Master's degree in Nuclear Engineering or related field with 8+ years of relevant experience; OR PhD in Nuclear Engineering or related field with 6+ years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated experience in nuclear reactor design, analysis, or operations.
• Strong background in one or more areas: reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, fuel performance, or system integration.
• Experience contributing to complex technical projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to communicate technical results through reports, presentations, and publications.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a "Q" DOE security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.

Level 6 - Directorate Fellow

• Bachelor's degree with 18+ years of relevant experience; OR Master's degree with 12+ years of relevant experience; OR a PhD with 10+ years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated nationally recognized expertise in nuclear reactor systems or related technologies.
• Proven experience leading major technical programs or projects, including multi-agency or multi-institution efforts.
• Track record of influencing technical direction and delivering high-impact solutions.
• Experience working with and advising government sponsors (DOE, NASA, DoD).
• Evidence of external recognition (e.g., invited talks, leadership roles, technical fellow designation, advisory boards, or equivalent).
• Demonstrated leadership in mentoring, team development, and program growth.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a "Q" DOE security clearance, which requires U.S. Citizenship.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience in space nuclear propulsion (NTP/NEP) or space reactor systems.
• Expertise in reactor core design, thermal-fluid systems, or advanced fuel technologies.
• Experience with large-scale, high-consequence engineering programs.
• Familiarity with multi-agency national programs and partnerships.
• Experience bridging concept development through system deployment.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Information:

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Nuclear Scientist to work on our Reactor Technology and Integration team. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our REC facility with every other Friday off.

• The pay range for this position is: Level 5 ($137,076 - $281,196) /Level 6 ($164,592 - $337,428). At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

• Multi-Level: This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.
• TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements:

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation:

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information:

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.