Materials Characterization Engineer

Averro; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

401(k) with 5% match

Unlimited PTO

Paid holidays

Parental leave

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Averro is seeking a Materials Characterization Engineer to join our advanced nuclear fuels program in Oak Ridge. The role focuses on developing mechanical testing methods for brittle ceramics, SiC, and coated particles, and on implementing NDE approaches for defect detection.

You will define capabilities for a new fuels lab, coordinate external labs, and bring methods in-house, contributing to cutting-edge nuclear materials research and development.

Qualifications

• Experience in mechanical testing, NDE, and materials characterization.
• Experience with advanced ceramics, SiC, or nuclear materials.
• Hands-on method development and equipment troubleshooting; brittle-material mechanics knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Define capabilities, equipment, and commissioning plans for a new advanced fuels lab.
• Develop mechanical-testing methods for brittle ceramics, SiC, and coated particles.
• Develop NDE approaches (micro-CT, radiography, ultrasonics) for defect detection.
• Perform specimen preparation, testing, and data analysis.
• Coordinate external labs and transfer methods in-house.

Skills

Mechanical testing

NDE

Materials characterization

Advanced ceramics

SiC

Nuclear materials

Education

Advanced degree in Materials Science / Ceramic / Mechanical / Nuclear Engineering

Job description

Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, 401(k) with up to 5% match, unlimited PTO, paid holidays, parental leave, and relocation assistance.

Role & Responsibilities

We are seeking a Materials Characterization Engineer for an advanced nuclear fuel developer which would be a great opportunity for someone with experience in mechanical testing and NDE looking to further their career in nuclear materials.

• Define capabilities, equipment, and commissioning plans for a new advanced fuels lab
• Develop mechanical-testing methods for brittle ceramics, SiC, and coated particles
• Develop NDE approaches (micro-CT, radiography, ultrasonics) for defect detection
• Perform specimen preparation, testing, and data analysis
• Coordinate external labs and transfer methods in-house

Essential Qualifications

• Experience in mechanical testing, NDE, materials characterization, advanced ceramics, SiC, or nuclear materials
• Hands-on method development, equipment operation, and troubleshooting; brittle-material mechanics knowledge
• Advanced degree in Materials Science, Ceramic, Mechanical, or Nuclear Engineering

Bonus Qualifications

• Ph.D.; TRISO, FCM, or nuclear fuel materials experience
• Lab commissioning, equipment procurement, and micro-CT or nanoindentation experience
• ASME NQA-1, lab QA, or specimen traceability familiarity

Averro is an equal opportunity employer.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.