Freelance Functional Test Lead Jobs in Romeoville, IL

About NANO Nuclear Energy

NANO Nuclear Energy is an advanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation microreactor systems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and resilient energy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR Energy System, LOKI MMR Energy System, and ZEUS Solid Core Battery Reactor-advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technologies designed for applications including data centers, industrial operations, remote communities, and critical infrastructure-the company is advancing innovative nuclear solutions for a rapidly evolving energy landscape. NANO Nuclear has also submitted a Construction Permit Application (CPA) to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to support the planned deployment of the KRONOS MMR at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), representing a significant milestone toward the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology. 

Joining NANO Nuclear means contributing to pioneering technologies with the potential to redefine the nuclear industry while working alongside experts in engineering, science, and innovation. Our team operates in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where employees are encouraged to solve challenging technical problems and advance the materials technologies needed for next-generation energy systems. 

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution and continuous improvement of complex testing programs for safety-critical systems. This role is responsible for designing and overseeing test strategies, ensuring testing is executed safely, consistently and in compliance with quality standards, while partnering closely with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver reliable, high-quality results.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with proven leadership experience, bringing the ability to design experiments, interpret data, solve complex technical challenges, and drive projects from concept through execution. This individual thrives in highly regulated environments, understands quality assurance principles, and is comfortable working directly with hardware, instrumentation and integrated test equipment.

Candidates with experience in aerospace, defense, space, chemical processing, industrial systems, or other heavy industrial environments are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience in pharmaceutical environments will be considered when it includes large-scale, safety critical equipment testing rather than laboratory or formulation work.

 Responsibilities

• This role is a handson Engineering Test Manager responsible for owning and managing the engineering test facility, including setup, operation, and daily oversight.
• The facility currently consists of an empty warehouse and will be equipped over the coming months. The individual will take full ownership of testing operations and play a critical role in supporting engineering decisionmaking through highquality, welldocumented test execution.
• Design, modify, and execute test plans and experimental setups, including gaining approvals and ensuring proper documentation.
• Support engineering decisions through rigorous testing and clear communication of results.
• Lead and review test design reviews, proposals, and supporting paperwork.
• Manage and maintain test equipment, fixtures, parts, and materials.
• Ensure testing is executed safely, repeatably, and in compliance with quality standards.
• Manage paperwork and coordination for ELS/EHS compliance.

Qualifications

• Must be a handson engineer, comfortable using tools and working directly with hardware and test setups.
• Experience working in highly regulated industries.
• Must have acted as a lead investigator or technical lead on test programs or projects
• Experience with:
  • Pressurized systems, pressure vessels, piping, and related safety considerations
  • Instrumentation, measurements, and basic data acquisition concepts (integration, validation, asking the right questions)
  • Able to design experiments, execute them, and interpret results, not just oversee others
• Quality Assurance is a major focus, candidate must understand QA principles and operate comfortably in regulated environments
• Strong communicator who can interface effectively across engineering, safety, and leadership
• Comfortable modifying plans as needed, getting approval, and executing effectively
• BA in Engineering or in a related field

 Preferred Qualifications:

• Aerospace / Defense background or Space (e.g., NASA, SpaceX, Blue Origin)
• Experience in Chemical or industrial systems
• Automotive (if safetycritical and experimental)
• Foundry or heavy industrial environments

What We Offer 

• A collaborative engineering culture focused on innovation and technical excellence. 
• Opportunities for mentorship, professional growth, and technical leadership. 
• The opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, more reliable energy future. 
• Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance with generous company contributions.
• Company 401(k) plan with 5% match.
• Unlimited PTO policy with company holidays and paid parental leave.

Equal Opportunity Employer

NANO Nuclear Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply.