Thermo-Mechanical Properties Test Lead

High Thermo-Mechanical Properties Test Lead

Date:
Mar 3, 2026

Location:

Lynchburg, VA, US

Company: BWXT

As our High Temp Thermo-Mechanical Properties Test Lead, you will be part of a team assisting multiple nuclear development projects in Lynchburg, VA. The individual will be responsible for defining standard test methodologies, performing materials testing, and mentoring peers while supporting a wide variety of programs for space, defense, and commercial customers.

On-site in Lynchburg, VA at the Advanced Technologies Office

• Develop and implement material characterization methodologies and testing capabilities focused on thermo-physical properties, including temperature-dependent diffusivity, heat capacity, coefficient of thermal expansion, and mechanical strength.
• Operate and maintain a high-temperature mechanical testing furnace along with a suite of characterization instruments such as Laser Flash Analysis (LFA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA), and Dilatometry to evaluate novel nuclear fuel forms.
• Perform thermo-physical property characterization on samples from diverse R&D and prototype production programs.
• Collaborate closely with materials scientists, chemical engineers, and other stakeholders to identify and apply appropriate characterization techniques that provide critical data to support R&D objectives.
• Mentor and support the broader team in the characterization of ceramics, metals, composites, and nuclear fuel materials.
• Support the operations manager in the build-out, commissioning, and safety documentation for the testing facility.

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a technical field of study (e.g., Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, etc.) is required.
• A minimum of fifteen (15) years of relevant experience is required. Applicants with an engineering or physics degree require a minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience.
• Must have strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to multi-task.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is required.

• MS or PhD in materials science, chemistry, or a related field is highly desired.
• Strong background in characterization of inorganic materials, including nuclear materials, metals, ceramics, and composites.
• Experience with ASTM standards for thermo-physical property testing.
• Familiarity with ISO or NQA-1 quality programs for materials testing.
• Hands‑on experience or foundational knowledge in thermal diffusivity (LFA), calorimetry (DSC/STA), dilatometry, and mechanical testing at elevated temperatures exceeding 1200 °C (2240 °F).

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work‑life balance.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
• An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
• The chance to be part of a mission‑driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!

Pay: $99,000.00‑$

BWXT is committed to the concept of Equal Employment Opportunity. We have established procedures to ensure that all personnel actions such as recruitment, compensation, career development, benefits, company-sponsored training and social recreational programs are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, protected veteran, or other protected status.