Material Science Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 and 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.

NANO Nuclear Energy is seeking a Graphite Engineer to support the development, analysis, and qualification of graphite components for advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) systems. The successful candidate will support graphite material selection, characterization, mechanical and thermal performance evaluations, and component qualification activities to support the design of next-generation microreactor technologies. Experienced candidates with expertise in nuclear graphite, high-temperature materials, irradiation effects, or advanced reactor systems may provide technical leadership in materials qualification and design activities.

• Support the design, evaluation, and qualification of graphite components used in advanced reactor systems.
• Analyze graphite material properties including thermal conductivity, strength, oxidation resistance, creep behavior, and dimensional stability.
• Support material selection, procurement specifications, and supplier technical evaluations.
• Perform engineering analyses related to high-temperature graphite performance.
• Evaluate graphite behavior under thermal gradients, irradiation conditions, and operational environments.
• Support development of material qualification plans, test requirements, and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with mechanical, thermal, nuclear, and systems engineering teams.
• Review technical literature and industry data related to graphite performance in HTGR applications.
• Prepare engineering reports, calculations, presentations, and licensing support documentation.
• Participate in design reviews and technical discussions with internal and external stakeholders.

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of engineering experience; internship, research, and laboratory experience are applicable.
• Understanding of materials science fundamentals, material properties, and degradation mechanisms.
• Ability to analyze technical data and communicate engineering conclusions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Experience with graphite, carbon-based materials, ceramics, or high-temperature materials.
• Experience with nuclear-grade graphite or HTGR materials.
• Knowledge of irradiation effects, oxidation behavior, fracture mechanics, or creep mechanisms.
• Experience with materials testing, characterization techniques, or qualification programs.
• Familiarity with ASME standards, NRC licensing processes, or nuclear material requirements.
• Experience with engineering analysis tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, MATLAB, or Python.

• 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.

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.