Position Summary:

The Universities Space Research Association (USRA) is currently seeking a Sr. Materials Engineer to support the Center for Space Nuclear Research Programs in Idaho Falls. USRAcreated the Center for Space Nuclear Research (CSNR) to foster collaboration with university scientists. CSNR nuclear scientists and engineers conduct research, experiment on, and develop advanced space nuclear technologies for advanced space power systems and nuclear engines for spacecraft propulsion. Future human exploration of Mars and beyond as well as national security space missions will likely require the use of nuclear energy to enable efficient and agile maneuvering, as well as reduction of the exposure of the crew to cosmic background radiation (i.e. cosmic rays and particles from solar flares) and heavy ion bombardment in deep space. The Senior Materials Engineer is a professional with advanced expertise in materials science and Nuclear engineering, responsible for researching, developing, and ensuring the quality of materials used in various applications, often leading teams and projects. The candidate will focus on understanding and improving the behavior of materials used in nuclear systems, addressing challenges like radiation damage, corrosion, and high-temperature performance to ensure safe and reliable nuclear operations. The position requires the development or installation of laboratory equipment as well as establishing and operating new procedures and supporting infrastructure. Supports the Director in the management and performance of USRA program deliverables.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

The position requires the establishment of laboratory procedures and infrastructure to perform and complete research and development tasks as required by the CSNR sponsors and customers.

Installation and hands-on operation of equipment including high temperature furnaces, powder handling tooling and equipment, power supplies and data acquisition systems.

Development of glovebox systems and other safety significant support apparatus.

Development of compliance documentation, applications and reporting to authorities having jurisdiction on behalf of CSNR.

Coordination of materials supplies and equipment delivery, and facility integration.

Development of proposals and proposal writing in collaboration with other staff and USRA CSNR strategic partners.

Supports student and intern materials understanding and practical skills development.

Collaborates with other staff and partners at CSNR including co-worker mentorship.

Material Selection and Development:

Research and identify suitable materials for specific applications, considering factors like performance, cost, and manufacturability.

Develop new materials or improve existing ones through experimentation and analysis.

Evaluate the properties and performance of materials under various conditions.

Keeps abreast of new sources for supplies and materials.

Testing and Analysis:

Conduct material manufacturing and performance testing to ensure compliance with specifications and standards.

Analyze material failures to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

Use various analytical techniques to characterize materials at the microscopic and macroscopic levels.

Process Development:

Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for materials.

Collaborate with other engineers and scientists to ensure seamless integration of materials into products and processes.

Quality Assurance:

Ensure that materials meet quality standards and specifications throughout the supply chain.

Implement quality control measures to prevent defects and ensure product reliability.

Team Leadership and Mentoring: Lead and mentor junior engineers and technicians. Provide technical guidance and support to other teams.

Problem Solving:

Identify and resolve material-related problems that arise during product development or manufacturing.

Develop innovative solutions to improve material performance and reduce costs.

Candidate must be self-motivating and able to guide science and engineering problem solving.

Required Qualifications:

Minimum Bachelor's of Science Degree + 10 years of experience; or a Master's of Science Degree + 8 years' experience in materials nuclear engineering, research, or development required for a Sr. Materials Engineer position.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential.

Education:

Master's degree in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or a related field.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Experience with multi-disciplined projects including science and engineering, Nuclear materials engineering combined with knowledge from materials science, and related disciplines.

Proposal writing skills and experience.

Prior or current NASA program experience working with at least one NASA Center, highly desirable.

Working knowledge of project scheduling tools and management.

Understanding of Risk Identification and Mitigation processes.

Working Conditions: This job operates in both a professional office environment and laboratory environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, etc. Extensive online usage. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties and responsibilities.

Telecommute:

Position is not eligible for telecommuting

This position is based at CSNR, Idaho Falls

Travel: Up to 5%