Research Engineer - Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering

Research Engineer

Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering

The Grainger College of Engineering

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

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.

Specific duties and responsibilities include:

Research Collaboration

* 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.

Project Management Support

* Work alongside faculty and staff on sponsored research projects, providing administrative, technical, and analytical support to coordinate project execution.

* Coordinate successful project execution including planning, timeline management, resource tracking, risk management

* 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.

Minimum Qualifications:

* 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

Preferred Qualifications:

* Worked under a quality assurance program.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

* 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.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

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.

APPLICATION PROCEDURES AND DEADLINE INFORMATION

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on August 10, 2026. Applications may be reviewed as they are received, interviews may also take place, but no hiring decision will be made until after the closing date. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Please upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contact information for three references.

Applications not submitted through (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Allie Langley  questions regarding the application process, please contact .

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation.

Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough…