Materials Testing Engineer

Our client is seeking a Contractor to provide the following services as part of the Natrium Materials Testing and Characterization team. This role will provide support as part of a high functioning team of engineers focused on materials testing, characterization, and supplier qualification for next generation materials and components for sodium cooled fast reactors. You will be responsible for a wide range of materials testing activities at partners, suppliers, and in a laboratory environment.

Tasks

Oversee and develop test programs for material performance and degradation (e.g., physical property measurement, mechanical testing, neutron irradiation, etc)

Develop test requirements, plans, specifications, and procedures for testing unique materials in complex environments, including liquid metal sodium

Lead large-scale cooperative projects for materials testing and development with external collaborators, partners, and suppliers

Maintain project schedule and ensure timely delivery of results

Conduct testing and material characterization in a laboratory environment

External procurements of materials, equipment, and testing services, including authoring procurement requisitions and managing supplier performance to plan

Perform scientific analysis on test data and generate technical reports to document new knowledge related to materials performance and behavior, reactor design, and materials qualification

Engage with the design, fabrication, and operation of custom laboratory experiments

Key Qualifications and Skills

Bachelors degree with minimum 6 years of related experience; or a Masters degree with minimum 3 years of related experience. A degree in Materials Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline is required.

Prior experience in materials testing and characterization for nuclear research or industry applications is desired but not required

A thorough understanding of mechanical testing for both metallic, ceramics, and hardfacing coatings is required

Experience working with a variety of materials including metallics and hardfacing coatings is desired

Proficiency in conducting mechanical testing in extreme environments is required

Demonstrated hands-on laboratory experience is required

Metallography and SEM-EDS experience are required

Proficiency in writing and producing technical documentation including test reports and studies

Experience cooperating with external project partners/collaborators and suppliers for technical scopes of work is highly desired

Proficiency in experimental techniques for materials testing, characterization, and analysis is required

Experience working to quality standards such as ASME NQA-1 is preferred

Strong communication skills desired.

The service provider will possess a high degree of trust and integrity, communicate openly and display respect, and a desire to foster teamwork.