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Nuclear Core Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

Ceramic Materials Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

About NANO Nuclear Energy NANO Nuclear Energy is an advanced nuclear technology company developing ... Support the design, evaluation, and qualification of SiC and graphite components used in advanced ...

Constellation Energy

Engineer, Design Mechanical

Plainfield, IL

$122K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... Perform engineering tasks as assigned by supervision applying engineering principles. * Accountable ...

Constellation Energy

Engineer, Design Mechanical

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$122K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... Perform engineering tasks as assigned by supervision applying engineering principles. * Accountable ...

Constellation Energy

Engineer, Design Mechanical

Joliet, IL · On-site

$122K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... Perform engineering tasks as assigned by supervision applying engineering principles. * Accountable ...

Constellation Energy

Engineer, Design Mechanical

Stateville, IL

$122K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... Perform engineering tasks as assigned by supervision applying engineering principles. * Accountable ...

Constellation Energy

Engineer, Design Mechanical

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$122K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... Perform engineering tasks as assigned by supervision applying engineering principles. * Accountable ...

Constellation Energy

Engineer, Design Mechanical

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$122K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... Perform engineering tasks as assigned by supervision applying engineering principles. * Accountable ...

Constellation Energy

Engineer, Design Mechanical

Crest Hill, IL

$122K - $154K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... Perform engineering tasks as assigned by supervision applying engineering principles. * Accountable ...

AMPS

Electrical Design Engineer

Downers Grove, IL

$28K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Paid parental leave At ARCO, our first core value is to treat people fairly and do the right thing ... Provide value engineering reviews and alternate design options in order to maximize cost savings ...

AMPS

Electrical Design Engineer

Downers Grove, IL

$28K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Paid parental leave At ARCO, our first core value is to treat people fairly and do the right thing ... Provide value engineering reviews and alternate design options in order to maximize cost savings ...

AMPS

Electrical Design Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$28K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Paid parental leave At ARCO, our first core value is to treat people fairly and do the right thing ... Provide value engineering reviews and alternate design options in order to maximize cost savings ...

viaPhoton

Mechanical Design Engineer

Chicago, IL

$78K - $106K/yr

We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber connectivity solutions for the data ... We reinforce this through our core values and beliefs as well as our processes and strategic goals.

New

Interface Engineering

Mechanical Design Engineer II (MEP)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K - $94K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Design Engineer II (MEP) - Chicago, IL (Hybrid) Interface Engineering Inc. At Interface Engineering ... Our Core Values: The following Core Values capture the essence of who we are. We live and breathe ...

New

viaPhoton

Mechanical Design Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber connectivity solutions for the data ... We reinforce this through our core values and beliefs as well as our processes and strategic goals.

G&W Electric

Electrical Design Engineer I

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Electrical Design Engineer I The Electrical Design Engineer I within our Production Engineering ... that embraces our core values and develops our talent. Our continuous focus on growth and ...

G&W Electric

Electrical Design Engineer I

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Electrical Design Engineer I The Electrical Design Engineer I within our Production Engineering ... that embraces our core values and develops our talent. Our continuous focus on growth and ...

G&W Electric Co

Electrical Design Engineer I

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Electrical Design Engineer I The Electrical Design Engineer I within our Production Engineering ... that embraces our core values and develops our talent. Our continuous focus on growth and ...

GFT.

Traffic Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

GFT is seeking a Traffic Design Engineer to join our Transportation Team in Schaumburg or Chicago ... Location: Schaumburg or Chicago, IL Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Employment Status ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Lansing, IL

$96K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsNuclear Core Design Engineer JobsNuclear Core Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Nuclear Core Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$64

$87

$104

How much do nuclear core design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear core design engineer in Chicago, IL is $87.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85.19 and $96.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a nuclear core design engineer do?

A Nuclear Core Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing the arrangement and performance of fuel assemblies within a nuclear reactor core. Their work ensures the reactor operates safely and efficiently while meeting regulatory requirements and power output goals. This involves complex calculations, simulations, and collaboration with other engineers to assess fuel utilization, thermal limits, and overall core behavior during various operating conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear core design engineer?

To thrive as a Nuclear Core Design Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering, reactor physics, and thermodynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with simulation and modeling software such as MCNP, SCALE, or CASMO, and familiarity with regulatory codes are essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant reactor core designs, which are critical for nuclear plant operation and public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear core design engineers during new reactor projects?

Nuclear Core Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing safety requirements with optimal reactor performance during new projects. They must navigate complex regulatory standards, work with interdisciplinary teams, and ensure that their designs account for fuel efficiency, thermal limits, and long-term reliability. Close collaboration with safety analysts, operations staff, and regulatory bodies is essential to address evolving project needs and unexpected technical issues. Staying current with technological advancements and adapting designs to new materials or methodologies is also a key part of the role.

What is the difference between Nuclear Core Design Engineer vs Nuclear Reactor Engineer?

AspectNuclear Core Design EngineerNuclear Reactor Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and optimizing nuclear reactor cores for safety and efficiencyOperating, monitoring, and maintaining nuclear reactors during operation
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, often with specialization in nuclear engineering, certifications in reactor safetyEngineering degree, nuclear engineering background, reactor operation licenses
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, engineering officesReactor sites, power plants, operational control rooms
Industry UsageUsed during reactor design, development, and safety analysis phasesActive during reactor operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting

The main difference is that Nuclear Core Design Engineers focus on designing and optimizing reactor cores before and during construction, while Nuclear Reactor Engineers are involved in the operation and maintenance of reactors once they are active. Both roles require nuclear engineering expertise but serve different stages of the reactor lifecycle.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Core Design Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $182,335 per year, or $87.7 per hour.

Ceramic Materials Engineer

NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

Oak Brook, IL • On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

About NANO Nuclear Energy
NANO Nuclear Energy is an advanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation micro reactor systems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and resilient energy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR™ EnergySystem, LOKI MMR™ Energy System, and ZEUS™ Solid Core BatteryReactor-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.
JoiningNANO Nuclear means contributing to pioneering technologies with the potentialto redefine the nuclear industry while working alongside experts inengineering, science, and innovation. Our team operates in a collaborative,entrepreneurial environment where employees are encouraged to solve challengingtechnical problems and advance the materials technologies needed fornext-generation energy systems.
Position Overview
NANO Nuclear Energy is seeking a CeramicMaterials Engineer to support the development, analysis, and qualification of SiCand graphite components for advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR)systems. The successful candidate will support material selection,characterization, mechanical and thermal performance evaluations, and componentqualification activities to support the design of next-generation microreactortechnologies. Experienced candidates with expertise in nuclear graphite,high-temperature materials, irradiation effects, or advanced reactor systemsmay provide technical leadership in materials qualification and designactivities.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support the design, evaluation, and qualification of SiC and graphite components used in advanced reactor systems.
  • Analyze SiC and graphite material properties including thermal conductivity, strength, oxidation resistance, creep behavior, and dimensional stability.
  • Support graphite material selection, procurement specifications, and supplier technical evaluations.
  • Perform engineering analyses related to performance in a high-temperature reactor environment.
  • Evaluate SiC and 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 material 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.

Required Qualifications
  • 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.
  • Knowledge of material performance in a nuclear reactor environment, including irradiation effects, oxidation behavior, fracture mechanics, or creep mechanisms.
  • Experience with materials testing, characterization techniques, or qualification programs.
  • Ability to analyze technical data and communicate engineering conclusions.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 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.
  • Familiarity with ASME standards, NRC licensing processes, or nuclear material requirements.
  • Experience with engineering analysis tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL, MATLAB, or Python.

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 Statement
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.

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