Research Engineer - Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering

Research Engineer - Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering

The Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering in The Grainger College of Engineering has one position opening for a Research Engineer. This role will support the ongoing and active research and development in the Illinois Nuclear Power Institute within the Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering, in the area of nuclear reactor technology.

• Assist in the analysis, evaluation, and design of nuclear reactor systems and supporting technologies to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
• Conduct research on critical aspects of microreactor technology development and deployment, contributing to advancements in the field.
• Perform modeling and simulation of nuclear reactor systems to support research and development initiatives.
• Communicate scientific advancements and licensing updates to stakeholders through various channels, including webinars, presentations, and scientific publications.

• Work alongside faculty and staff on sponsored research projects, providing administrative, technical, and analytical support to coordinate project execution.
• Communicate among project members and assist in compliance and quality assurance with project requirements.
• Assist in the development and submission of research grant proposals in collaboration with Illinois Nuclear Power Institute faculty and staff.
• Additional duties as assigned to assist in the efforts of the ongoing mission of the Institute and department.

• Masters degree in Nuclear or Mechanical Engineering (or other relevant engineering discipline)
• At least two years of work experience in an engineering‑focused industry
• Experience in modeling and simulation of complex systems
• Experience in presenting technical work
• Experience in coordinating technical efforts with multiple stakeholders
• Must be a U.S. citizen, Permanent resident, a national from one of the countries listed in the 10 CFR 810 appendix, or have the ability to meet Department of Energy Regulations 10 CFR 810 authorized holders.

• Worked under a quality assurance program.

• Maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality when working with classified, export‑controlled, or otherwise sensitive technical information.

Candidates must meet the eligibility requirements of the Department of Energy Regulations 10 CFR 810 . Compliance with these requirements is necessary due to the Department of Energy regulations governing access to nuclear, plasma, and radiological technology and information. Requesting specific DOE authorization may be part of the hiring process. All authorizations must be in place by the proposed position start date of September 16 2026.

This is an Academic Professional position appointed on a 12‑month service basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the closing date. The budgeted salary range for this position is $80,000 – $100,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. Hybrid work options may be available for the positions, with the ability to be on‑site at the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign campus as needed per the University’s Workplace Flexibility policy.

This position is eligible for sponsorship for work authorization, except for sponsorship of a new H‑1B petition that would incur the $100,000 fee.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non‑discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E‑Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217‑333‑0885, option #1, or accessibility.