Nuclear Mechanical Engineer

Strategic Management Solutions, LLC
United States, Tennessee, Oak Ridge
Mar 12, 2025
*SMSI* provides expert management consulting, program and project management, and technical consulting services to government and private sector clients. SMSI has grown and evolved by building an outstanding reputation for client-focused performance and for delivering results that enable clients to meet commitments and milestones. . SMSI is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Job Summary SMSI LLC is seeking a Nuclear Mechanical Engineer to work onsite in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. This person will be assigned to the HFIR Upgrades Project Office and requires frequent interaction with personnel at all levels within HFIR. Responsibilities Operating at 85 MW, the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) is the most intense steady-state neutron source in the United States and one of the most powerful research reactors in the world. Its exceptionally high neutron flux enables groundbreaking research across physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, and biology. HFIR plays a critical role in advancing scientific discovery, supporting national security, and producing essential medical and industrial isotopes, including those vital for cancer treatment and space exploration applications. HFIR's unique combination of thermal and cold neutron scattering capabilities allows researchers to probe materials at the atomic level with unmatched precision, making it a premier facility for neutron science. The reactor's specialized infrastructure supports fundamental and applied research that drives technological advancements in energy, defense, and healthcare. The Research Reactors Division (RRD) is responsible for operating and maintaining HFIR, ensuring its continued contribution to the U.S. scientific and industrial communities. As HFIR approaches key life-extension milestones, there are major upgrade projects to sustain and enhance its capabilities for decades to come. Two major replacement projects are being prepared. The projects are the reactor pressure vessel replacement and the beryllium reflector replacement sustaining HFIR's operational performance. These projects are critical to ensuring HFIR continues to support the Office of Science's mission, providing essential isotope production and research capabilities to meet the expanding needs of the United States in scientific research, medicine, and national defense. Maintaining long-term operations of this unique reactor is essential to U.S. technological leadership and competitiveness. As part of these upgrade efforts, involves modernizing HFIR's engineering design documentation by generating modern 3D CAD models and detailed fabrication drawings. This work is essential for supporting future design modifications, specifications, engineering analyses, and the successful implementation of the upcoming replacement projects. The selected individual will play a pivotal role in this process, collaborating with system engineers, designers, and other technical disciplines within the Research Reactors Division (RRD) to develop accurate digital representations of HFIR's critical systems, structures, and components. This position will be assigned to the HFIR Upgrades Project Office and requires frequent interaction with personnel at all levels within HFIR. Required Skills Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, or a related discipline. Minimum of 10 years of engineering experience at an operating nuclear reactor. Proficiency in engineering design and manufacturing practices, including welding and joining techniques and machine design. Strong understanding of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (Sections III and VIII) and ASME B31.1 piping codes. Experience with converting legacy drawings or 2D engineering drawings into modern 3D CAD models and detailed fabrication drawings. Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling software, such as SolidWorks, Siemens NX, PTC Creo, or Autodesk Inventor. Ability to perform engineering calculations and analyses to support design basis and technical requirements. Familiarity with U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Orders and Standards, including DOE O 420.1C (Facility Safety), DOE STD-1189 (Integration of Safety into the Design Process), and DOE STD-1073-2016 (Configuration Management). Strong knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) principles per ASME Y14.5. Experience in preparing design specifications, technical procurement documents, and material specifications. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. Must be eligible for access to export-controlled technology. Must be able to pass pre-placement and random drug testing per the Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP). Candidate must be a US citizen. Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree or higher in mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, or a related field. Professional Engineer (PE) license or eligibility to obtain one. Experience working with research reactors or DOE national laboratory facilities. Comprehensive understanding of nuclear technology (e.g., nuclear reactor safety basis, design, and construction) Familiarity with nuclear reactor core component design and replacement planning. Experience with NQA-1 quality assurance requirements for nuclear facilities. Knowledge of AWS welding codes and standards. Familiarity with finite element analysis (FEA) software, such as ANSYS or Abaqus, for structural and thermal analysis. Experience with configuration management and engineering change control processes in a nuclear environment. Understanding of radiation shielding design principles and nuclear safety analysis. Experience with large-scale, long-term capital projects within the DOE 413.3B framework. Educational Requirements Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, or a related discipline required.