Mechanical Engineer - Nuclear Remote Handling

Subcritical Systems Inc. is a funded startup based in Austin, Texas dedicated to bringing the energy amplifier concept to the United States for safe generation of electrical power. They are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and procurement of Remote Handling Systems for the subcritical assembly of an Energy Amplifier. The role involves designing, prototyping, and managing maintenance strategies for the Energy Amplifier’s molten-Pb-cooled subcritical assembly.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as an integral member of the subcritical assembly team responsible for designing, prototyping, and ultimately constructing the subcritical core
• Develop and assess concepts for remote handling, inspection, and maintenance systems for a Pb-cooled subcritical assembly, to include fresh fuel insertion into and spent fuel removal from deep within a molten Pb pool
• Define maintenance philosophies and access strategies (in-vessel, ex-vessel, modular replacement, tooling approaches)
• Break down maintenance operations into functional tasks and propose remote, automated, or semi-remote solutions
• Identify and manage design constraints related to high radiation, high temperature, Pb coolant, corrosion, contamination, and limited access
• Lead trade studies to balance safety, simplicity, operability, cost, and schedule
• Engage with vendors, national labs, or research partners as needed
• Work with the leadership team on developing & tracking key company technical milestones, ensuring delivery of results within aggressive timelines in a complex, fast-paced environment
• Contribute to discussions around licensing strategy, ALARA, and operational safety, especially as they relate to maintainability
• Document work in written reports, presentations, and regulatory submissions

Requirements:

• M.S. (preferred) or B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or similar field
• Experience with conceptual or early-phase mechanical design of complex systems
• Exposure to remote handling and maintainability engineering in hazardous or constrained environments
• Record of technical accomplishment through publications and presentations
• Strong work ethic, resilient, able to work in a fast-paced environment, driven, passionate about the field
• Experience in nuclear, fusion, hot-cell operations, aerospace, defense, or other high-hazard industries
• Familiarity with liquid metal systems (Pb, PbBi, or Na), high-temperature components, or corrosive environments
• Understanding of radiation-aware design, shielding considerations, and contamination control
• Experience contributing to first-of-a-kind systems or technology development programs
• Comfort working in small teams with high individual ownership