Nuclear Facilities Engineer ; Mechanical Engineer

What You Will Do

This position will be filled at either the Nuclear Facilities Engineer 1 or 2 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional responsibilities will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

Join the Essential Balance of Plant Group (PFE-EBP) within the Plutonium Facilities Engineering Division, supporting the daily operations of the Plutonium Facility, which is critical to our National Defense mission.

Our group manages approximately 40 mechanical systems, including cryogenic systems, compressed gases, vacuum systems, circulating water, chemical supply, and more. This is a dynamic, hands-on engineering role ideal for those who enjoy fieldwork, system inspections, and staying closely connected to operations and maintenance. If you're a proactive, detail-oriented engineer who thrives on real-world impact and technical challenges, we want to hear from you.

Nuclear Facilities Engineer 1 ($94,500 - $154,600)

As a Mechanical Systems Engineer 1, you'll own your assigned systems, ensuring peak performance. You'll monitor system health proactively and collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, and other teams to troubleshoot issues and drive continuous improvement.

Nuclear Facilities Engineer 2 ($104,100 - $172,200)

In addition to the responsibilities at the lower level, this role requires greater independence and the ability to contribute insights and experience from other organizations.

What You Need

Minimum

Job Requirements:

• Ability to troubleshoot mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of design, operation, and maintenance of facility mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of analysis and calculation techniques to support engineered solutions.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, with management, customers, peers, and craft personnel.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook).

Additional Requirements for Nuclear Facilities Engineer 2:

• Experience evaluating and trending system health.
• Skill in preparing and reviewing technical reports and studies.
• Collaborative ability with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to develop design details, calculations, specifications, and inspections compliant with safety and design standards.
• Mentorship experience for interns and early-career engineers.
• Familiarity with applicable codes and standards, including ASME B31.3 and B31.9.
• Strong communication skills.

Training/

Certifications:

None required, but certifications in vibration analysis, thermography, leak detection, or NDE techniques are desirable.

Education/

Experience:

• Lower level:
  Bachelor's in Engineering (ABET-accredited) + 2 years' experience; advanced degrees preferred.
• Higher level:
  Bachelor's in Engineering + 3 years' experience; advanced degrees preferred.

Desired

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of major mechanical systems (HVAC, compressed air, cryogenics, etc.).
• Experience supporting safety analyses and hazards evaluations.
• Experience in a regulated nuclear environment (DOE or NRC).
• Active DOE Q-clearance.

Work Environment: On-site in Los Alamos, NM; work involves physical mobility, working near radiation sources, machinery, and sometimes overtime or irregular hours.

Position Details: Regular appointment, 1-year commitment, no remote work. U.S. citizenship required for clearance. The role is subject to federal and DOE regulations, including drug testing and security clearances.

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, 401(k), tuition assistance, wellness programs, and relocation packages.

Additional Information: Employment is contingent on background checks, security clearance, and compliance with DOE and NNSA directives. Equal opportunity employer; accommodations available upon request.