Apprentice Nuclear Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois

ResearchEngineer
Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering
The Grainger College of Engineering
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering in The Grainger College of Engineering has one position opening for a Research Engineer. This role will support the ongoing and active research and development in the Illinois Nuclear Power Institute within the Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering, in the area of nuclear reactor technology.
Specific duties and responsibilities include:
Research Collaboration

• Assist in the analysis, evaluation, and design of nuclear reactor systems and supporting technologies to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
• Conduct research on critical aspects of microreactor technology development and deployment, contributing to advancements in the field.
• Perform modeling and simulation of nuclear reactor systems to support research and development initiatives.
• Communicate scientific advancements and licensing updates to stakeholders through various channels, including webinars, presentations, and scientific publications.

Project Management Support

• Work alongside faculty and staff on sponsored research projects, providing administrative, technical, and analytical support to coordinate project execution.
• Coordinate successful project execution including planning, timeline management, resource tracking, risk management
• Communicate among project members and assist in compliance and quality assurance with project requirements.
• Assist in the development and submission of research grant proposals in collaboration with Illinois Nuclear Power Institute faculty and staff.

• Additional duties as assigned to assist in the efforts of the ongoing mission of the Institute and department.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Masters degree in Nuclear or Mechanical Engineering (or other relevant engineering discipline)
• At least two years of work experience in an engineering-focused industry
• Experience in modeling and simulation of complex systems
• Experience in presenting technical work
• Experience in coordinating technical efforts with multiple stakeholders
• Must be a U.S. citizen, Permanent resident, a national from one of the countries listed in the 10 CFR 810 appendix, or have the ability to meet Department of Energy Regulations 10 CFR 810 authorized holders

Preferred Qualifications:

• Worked under a quality assurance program.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality when working with classified, export-controlled, or otherwise sensitive technical information.

Candidates must meet the eligibility requirements of the Department of Energy Regulations 10 CFR 810. Compliance with these requirements is necessary due to the Department of Energy regulations governing access to nuclear, plasma, and radiological technology and information. Requesting specific DOE authorization may be part of the hiring process. All authorizations must be in place by the proposed position start date of September 16, 2026.
APPOINTMENT INFORMATION
This is an Academic Professional position appointed on a 12-month service basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the closing date. The budgeted salary range for this position is $80,000 - $100,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. Hybrid work options may be available for the positions, with the ability to be on-site at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus as needed per the University's Workplace Flexibility policy. This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H-1B petition that would incur the $100,000 fee.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND DEADLINE INFORMATION
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on August 10, 2026. Applications may be reviewed as they are received, interviews may also take place, but no hiring decision will be made until after the closing date. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Please upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contact information for three references. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Allie Langley at ardonne2@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois must alsocomply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, assuch, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures forapplicants.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1037370
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu