About NANO Nuclear Energy

NANO Nuclear Energy is anadvanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation microreactorsystems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and resilientenergy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR™ EnergySystem, LOKI MMR™ Energy System, and ZEUS™ Solid Core BatteryReactor—advancedhigh-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technologies designed forapplications including data centers, industrial operations, remote communities,and critical infrastructure—the company is advancing innovative nuclearsolutions for a rapidly evolving energy landscape. NANO Nuclear has alsosubmitted a Construction Permit Application (CPA) to the U.S. NuclearRegulatory Commission (NRC) to support the planned deployment of the KRONOS MMRat the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), representing a significantmilestone toward the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology. 

Joining NANO Nuclear meanscontributing to pioneering technologies with the potential to redefine thenuclear industry while working alongside experts in engineering, science, andinnovation. Our team operates in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environmentwhere employees are encouraged to solve challenging technical problems andadvance the materials technologies needed for next-generation energy systems. 

Position Overview

NANO Nuclear Energy isseeking a Graphite Engineer to support the development, analysis, andqualification of graphite components for advanced high-temperature gas-cooledreactor (HTGR) systems. This role provides an opportunity for an early-careermaterials or mechanical engineer to develop specialized expertise in nucleargraphite behavior while contributing to the design of next-generationmicroreactor technologies.

The successful candidatewill support graphite material selection, characterization, mechanical andthermal performance evaluations, and component qualification activities.Experienced candidates with expertise in nuclear graphite, high-temperaturematerials, irradiation effects, or advanced reactor systems are encouraged toapply and may provide technical leadership in materials qualification anddesign activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the design, evaluation, and qualification of graphite components used in advanced reactor systems.
• Analyze graphite material properties including thermal conductivity, strength, oxidation resistance, creep behavior, and dimensional stability.
• Support material selection, procurement specifications, and supplier technical evaluations.
• Perform engineering analyses related to high-temperature graphite performance.
• Evaluate graphite behavior under thermal gradients, irradiation conditions, and operational environments.
• Support development of material qualification plans, test requirements, and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with mechanical, thermal, nuclear, and systems engineering teams.
• Review technical literature and industry data related to graphite performance in HTGR applications.
• Prepare engineering reports, calculations, presentations, and licensing support documentation.
• Participate in design reviews and technical discussions with internal and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field.
• 0–5 years of engineering experience; internship, research, and laboratory experience are applicable.
• Understanding of materials science fundamentals, material properties, and degradation mechanisms.
• Ability to analyze technical data and communicate engineering conclusions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Experience with graphite, carbon-based materials, ceramics, or high-temperature materials.
• Experience with nuclear-grade graphite or HTGR materials.
• Knowledge of irradiation effects, oxidation behavior, fracture mechanics, or creep mechanisms.
• Experience with materials testing, characterization techniques, or qualification programs.
• Familiarity with ASME standards, NRC licensing processes, or nuclear material requirements.
• Experience with engineering analysis tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, MATLAB, or Python.

What We Offer 

• A collaborative engineering culture focused on innovation and technical excellence. 
• Opportunities for mentorship, professional growth, and technical leadership. 
• Competitive compensation and benefits package. 
• The opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, more reliable energy future. 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

NANO Nuclear Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply.