Chemical Engineer

X-energy LLC is hiring a mid-level Chemical Engineer to support the design, implementation, and optimization of chemical processes and systems for High-Temperature Gas-cooled Reactors (HTGRs). This role works cross-functionally with project leadership and other engineering disciplines to deliver on defined project objectives.

• Collaborate in planning, scheduling, and execution of engineering tasks across multiple phases of HTGR system development.
• Provide technical oversight and direction to internal and external design teams, ensuring adherence to project objectives and quality standards.
• Lead and participate in reviews and presentations for internal and customer design evaluations, focusing on chemical and thermal-hydraulic system performance.
• Translate customer needs into functional requirements, contributing to the definition and validation of chemical engineering specifications and interface documents.
• Organize and coordinate efforts between chemical engineering, systems engineering, nuclear design, and external stakeholders.
• Develop and validate thermal‑hydraulic models for HTGR cores, secondary systems, and balance‑of‑plant using simulation tools such as ASPEN and COMSOL.
• Conduct system‑level heat and mass balance analyses for steady‑state and transient conditions, including load‑following and accident scenarios.
• Integrate chemical engineering principles into HTGR plant design (helium Brayton and Rankine cycles, heat exchanger networks, hydrogen production, tritium control, off‑gas systems).
• Evaluate high‑temperature material behavior—oxidation, corrosion, creep—for alloys, graphite, and reactor‑grade materials under HTGR conditions.
• Support specification, sizing, and performance evaluation of key system components (recuperators, compressors, turbo machinery, helium circulators).
• Execute or review CFD and FEA analyses to support component‑level assessments.
• Contribute to plant operational strategies including control schemes, startup/shutdown procedures, and accident mitigation approaches.
• Support licensing and QA efforts through preparation of technical reports, engineering calculations, and safety analyses in compliance with NRC and ASME standards.
• Lead or mentor small engineering teams in solving complex design and integration challenges within HTGR systems.
• Perform other duties as assigned by manager.

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering or related degree from an accredited institution.
• Typically five years of experience in a chemical engineering role.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS, ChemCAD).
• Knowledge of industry standards and safety regulations (OSHA, EPA).
• Previous experience at X‑energy exceeding performance standards may be in lieu of years of experience.

• Experience working in the nuclear industry.
• Master’s or Ph.D. in engineering or related field, with work experience in design projects, research, or professional roles.

530 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD 20850

4 days a week in office.

Up to 10% as needed.

8:00am–5:00pm, Monday‑Friday.

$100,000 – $140,000 per year, based on qualifications and experience.

Robust benefits package including 401(k) with employer match, medical/dental/vision insurance, life and disability insurance, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement for professional development.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. X Energy, LLC participates in E‑Verify.