Aerospace Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Washington

X-energy is seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer responsible for translating complex nuclear component designs into manufacturable products for our small modular reactor program.

This role requires expertise in heavy component manufacturing, with emphasis on design for manufacturability, process optimization, and quality assurance.

The ideal candidate will work closely with vendors throughout the manufacturing lifecycle, from initial planning to final delivery, providing on‑site monitoring and oversight during critical fabrication phases.

• Develop mechanical/physical concepts, design and support development of processes to create or identify structures, systems, and components (SSCs) for use in nuclear products or facilities with a focus on nuclear safety.
• Identify, collect, and document applicable requirements, interfaces, design basis and criteria by coordinating with key stakeholders/systems engineers and support identifying applicable industry codes and standards and the direction of project leads and systems engineers.
• Planning and performing the analysis required to assess aspects of the SSCs to ensure they can perform their intended functions and meet technical specifications and design requirements.
• Perform computations utilizing hand calculations and analytical tools for structural, thermal, hydraulic, and other scoping calculations as required at the direction of project leads and systems engineers to ensure SSCs can meet technical requirements.
• Create and maintain CAD-generated engineering models of reactor SSCs.
• Integrate design activities across engineering team members, partners, and suppliers and perform supporting scoping and sizing calculations to downselect design features to meet design requirements using guidance from consensus codes and standards.
• Develop innovative mechanical solutions to refine and deploy concepts, technologies, and designs associated with X-energy developed reactors, including pressure vessels and piping, reactor internals, nuclear fuel, and high temperature materials such as graphite.
• Support the assessment of SSCs for manufacturability as well as assembly and integration considerations at the direction of project leads.
• Write and develop design documentation including design basis documents, technical reports, calculations, and drawings in accordance with applicable procedures.
• Develop Verification and Validation (V&V) plans for analytical tools and support qualification of toolset.
• Perform work in accordance with X-energy quality procedures for design and configuration management to ensure project quality requirements are met.
• Provide independent reviews and acceptance reviews of engineering deliverables and data.
• Lead the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, without close supervision and extensive latitude for independent judgement.
• Teach and mentor more junior team members.
• Stay abreast of industry and academic trends, breakthroughs, and best practices.
• Maintain professional demeanor and behavior at all times in all forms of communication.
• Perform other duties as assigned by manager.

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, or related engineering discipline (e.g., nuclear aerospace, chemical, etc.) from an accredited institution required.

A master’s degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.

A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.

Previous experience at X-energy exceeding performance standards may be in lieu of years of experience.

Proficiency with engineering hand calculations is required.

Experience and/or knowledge in a minimum of one of the following areas:

• Use of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and product lifecycle management (PLM) software E.g. UG/NX, SolidWorks, Pro-Engineer, Teamcenter, Windchill, or similar.
• Hardware ownership including manufacturing and testing oversight.
• One plus years of demonstrated hands-on experience developing and delivering hardware or manufacturing processes in a production environment is required.
• May include industry internship experience, hobby, or participation in collegiate engineering projects such as: Formula SAE, Baja SAE, Design Build Fly, Rocket Club, etc.
• Designing and developing mechanical or fluid systems, assemblies, or components.

Preferred Experience

• Design for Manufacturing (using manufacturer input and testing back into design)
• Heavy manufacturer startup and follow for FOAK components
• Weld engineering (degree preferable), minimum familiarity with AWS standards and ASME BPVC Section IX
• Experience with machining and assembly
• Proficient in CAD modeling and drawing production (NX preferred)
• ASME Component manufacturing experience (preferably BPVC Section III, minimum Section VIII)
• Experience troubleshooting manufacturing issues in real-time, providing technical solutions to production challenges

• Execute the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, with minimal supervision.
• Provide ownership, responsibility, and accountability over technical scope involving the coordination of multiple individual contributors working in a specific area.

Typically, five years of experience in an engineering role required.

A master’s degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.

A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.

• Lead the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, without close supervision and some latitude for independent judgement.
• Provide feedback and guidance to more junior team members with the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document.
• Lead small groups of engineers to solve complex technical problems and deliver high quality engineering work products on time and within budget.

Typically, ten years of experience in an engineering role required.

A master’s degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.

A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.

• Lead the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, without close supervision and extensive latitude for independent judgement.
• Teach and mentor more junior team members.
• Stay abreast of industry and academic trends, breakthroughs, and best practices.

Typically, fifteen years of experience in an engineering role required.

A master’s degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.

A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.

Previous experience at X-energy exceeding performance standards may be in lieu of years of experience.

530 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD

4 days a week in office

Travel, International and Domestic, between 25%-50%

8:00am-5:00pm, Mon-Fri

As required by Maryland and other applicable state law, X Energy, LLC (X-energy) lists the expected compensation range for a publicly advertised job opportunity based upon the job requirements (e.g. education/training, experience, skill sets, etc.). Individual candidates who meet the job requirements for the posted position will be offered a salary within this range based on their respective levels of education/training, experience, and other qualifications unique to them. Salary ranges may vary based on the specific office location and region referenced in the posting to take into consideration differences in cost of living and may not be reflective of all regions. Please note that compensation ranges listed for US job postings reflect base salary only and do not include benefits or other incentives. Offers within the posted salary range are commensurate with the individual’s qualifications for the position, along with a view on internal equity, market data, and room for growth.

• Level III: $115,000 - $140,000
• Level IV: $140,000 - $170,000
• Level V: $170,000 - $200,000

Full time - Exempt

X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401K plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental /Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports the continuing education of our employees.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Right To Work Link: If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away (e-verify.gov)

E-Verify Participation Link: E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish

X-energy does not discriminate in employment against qualified individuals on the basis of a disability, and understands its obligation to make reasonable accommodation for individuals with physical or mental impairments that qualify as a disability under the ADA and ADAAA, unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the company. It is an applicant’s or employee’s responsibility to participate in this interactive process by seeking an accommodation, assisting X-energy in reviewing accommodation alternatives and providing medical certification of the need for an accommodation. Any applicant or employee who wishes to seek an accommodation under this policy should contact the Human Resources Department via email at hr@x-energy.com. Whether a requested accommodation would create an undue hardship will be determined based on the facts of each particular case.

X-energy is delivering the next generation of carbon‑free energy by reinventing nuclear power. We believe in leaving a cleaner planet for our children and grandchildren, while continuing to provide sufficient and affordable power to sustain growing populations around the world. That is why we have reinvented nuclear power, with a unique combination of proven technologies and new innovations, to meet our current and future needs. Watch our Anthem here