Nuclear Fuel Development Engineer

Job Overview

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Nuclear Fuel Development Engineer located at the Materials and Fuels Complex (MFC). The position operates on a 4×10 schedule with Fridays off.

MFC is a unique research environment that covers the entire nuclear fuel lifecycle—from fuel development and fabrication to post‑irradiation analysis.

Responsibilities

• Support or conduct research, development, and analysis within nuclear fuels and materials, including characterization, fabrication, sample preparation, instrument development, process development, and irradiation experiment design.
• Manage feedstock procurement, material movements, and ensure strict quality and safety compliance during reactor insertion.
• Develop processes to fabricate advanced nuclear fuels across the full development lifecycle, including synthesis, production, post‑processing; and lead novel development work.
• Provide project oversight—from requirement submission to execution—delivering high‑quality deliverables.
• Document activities, coordinate material flows, and establish multi‑facility process pathways while maintaining safety protocols.
• Serve as principal investigator: create research plans, conduct experiments, interpret data, and provide technical leadership.
• Conduct peer reviews and produce reports, publications, proposals, and intellectual property.
• Seek new research opportunities, generate proposals, secure funding, and represent INL in national and international forums.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related technical engineering degree from an ABET‑accredited institution (Level 1).
• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience for Level 2, or a Master’s degree without experience, or a PhD with appropriate experience.
• US citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a DOE “L” security clearance.

Preferred

• Experience in extruding uranium alloys.

Job Information and Compensation

• Pay range:
  Level 1 ($66,504–$136,356) / Level 2 ($79,344–$162,732). Compensation is based on education, experience, and credentials.
• Position is testing‑designated; a pre‑employment drug screen and periodic testing are required.
• This is a multi‑level posting; the employee will be placed at the appropriate level based on experience and skills.

Physical Requirements

While performing the job duties the employee frequently stands, walks, sits, stoops, kneels, bends, and may work in confined spaces. Hand/finger dexterity, keyboard operation, material manipulation, and tool handling are required. The employee may occasionally lift or move up to 50 pounds with assistance. Adequate visual acuity and hearing capacity are essential. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation

Individuals with disabilities will be provided reasonable accommodation for the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other employer benefits. Contact INL to request accommodation.

Selective Service Requirements

For males born after December 31, 1959, registration with the Selective Service System (SSS) is required. See (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). for more information.

Primary Location

United States, Idaho National Laboratory, Materials & Fuels Complex (MFC)

Employment Details

• Job type:
  Full‑time, Regular
• Schedule:
  
  40 hours per week, 4×10 days with Fridays off
• Telework:
  On‑site worker
• Relocation eligible

Contact and Application

When applying, provide a resume and answer all screening questions. Applicants who do not submit a resume or fail to answer questions may be deemed ineligible. INL does not accept unsolicited resumes from third‑party vendors.

Other Information

Referrals increase chances of interviewing s posting was last updated on Jan 8, 2026 and will be unposted on Jan 16, 2026.

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