Molten Salt R&D Engineer

Battelle Energy Alliance; Idaho Falls (ID); On-site; USD 79,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

401(k) match

Paid time off

Relocation package

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Molten Salt R&D Engineer to join the Advanced Technology of Molten Salts team at the Materials and Fuels Complex. The role supports high-temperature salt experiments and publication of results.

The position requires MS/PhD in a related field with ABET accreditation, strong communication, and hands-on molten salt experience. A multi-level posting offers Level 2 or Level 3 with corresponding pay ranges.

Qualifications

• Level 2: MS or PhD in chemical engineering, chemistry, nuclear engineering, materials science, or related field from an ABET accredited program.
• Level 3: MS or PhD in same fields and 2 years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform engineering research and development on molten salt chemistry and conversions.
• Conduct fundamental and applied research.
• Collect and analyze test results and develop new testing methods.
• Assimilate and interpret experimental data and publish results.
• Present at conferences individually or with a team.
• Identify new research opportunities and help generate proposals and funding.

Skills

Molten Salt Eng

Nuclear Eng

Publications

Proposal Writing

Education

MS/PhD ABET

Job description

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Molten Salt R&D engineer to work in our Advanced Technology of Molten Salts department. This position will work a 4x10 schedule located out of our Materials and Fuels Complex (MFC) facility with every Friday off.

Molten Salt R&D engineer researches and develops new technologies related to the use of molten salts in nuclear applications. This includes fabrication and conversion processes, sensor development, and the study of fundamental properties of salts. The researcher will develop experiments with high temperature molten salts, collect experimental data, analyze data, document and publish experimental results. Knowledge and a working background in nuclear engineering and high temperature molten salts is required.

Essential Job Functions:

• Perform engineering research and development activities associated with molten salt chemistry and chemical conversions.
• Conduct fundamental research and applied research.
• Collect and analyze test results and develop new testing methods and analysis approaches.
• Assimilate and interpret experimental data.
• Present at conferences, either independently or as part of a research team.
• Identify new research opportunities, contribute to the direction of technical teams, respond to research opportunities, and assist in the generation of technical proposals and securing funding for research activities.

Required:

• Level 2: Masters of Science or a PhD in chemical engineering, chemistry, nuclear engineering, materials science, or related field from an ABET accredited program.
• Level 3: Masters of Science or a PhD in chemical engineering, chemistry, nuclear engineering, materials science, or related field from an ABET accredited program and 2 years of relevant experience.
• Hands‑on experience and publications in molten salt engineering or related area.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience in proposal writing and capture of funding opportunities.
• Hands on laboratory experience desired.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, bend, and work in an office and 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. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the people 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 Molten Salt R&D Engineer to work on our Advanced Technology of Molten Salts team. Our team works a 4x10 schedule located out of our MFC facility with every Friday off.

• The pay range for this position is: Level 2 ($79,344 - $162,732) / Level 3 ($95,256 - $195,288). 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.