Deploy the next generation of energy infrastructure with Applied Atomics 

Applied Atomics delivers firm, clean electricity with proven technology. We design, build, and operate nuclear plants directly alongside the facilities they power. With no reactor science or new fuel to invent, we have no reason to stall. We are the first fully integrated nuclear power provider built to deploy now. Founded by a team of engineers and operators who built the launch sites, test complexes, and factories behind SpaceX, designed and commercialized nuclear reactors, and ran billion-dollar asset portfolios, the team is now focused on clean power deployment. Applied Atomics is backed by Alpaca VC, Transition, and Morpheus Ventures.

About the role:

Applied Atomics is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and develop the high-reliability mechanical systems that support our reactor product.  You will work on hardware such as precision motion systems, actuation mechanisms, structural components, safety-related assemblies, and complex mechanical interfaces within the reactor and adjacent systems. This role blends mechanical engineering fundamentals with the unique environmental and reliability needs of a nuclear system.  Prior nuclear experience is not required; we are looking for strong mechanical engineers who can design robust hardware, solve complex problems, and iterate rapidly alongside world-class nuclear engineers. 

This role is ideal for someone who wants broad responsibility, thrives in a fast-paced hardware environment, and wants to make a lasting impact on the design of a first-of-a-kind (FOAK) nuclear power system.  

Why we need you

We are transitioning nuclear energy from a theoretical science into a practical reality, and that requires practical problem-solvers. We need engineers who are eager to take direct responsibility for their work and see it through to completion. Your role will be critical in transforming complex designs into safe, reliable, and operational power plants that will operate for decades to come. 

What you will do

Mechanical System Design 

• Design and develop mechanical systems and components for the reactor environment, including motion systems, actuators, linkages, structural components, and safety-related mechanical assemblies.  
• Support the development of hardware used in reactivity control, mechanical actuation, and system-level motion interfaces.  
• Conduct design trade studies, concept development, and material selection.  

Analysis & Engineering Fundamentals 

• Perform structural and thermal analysis using hand calculations and finite element analysis tools (ANSYS, Abaqus, Nastran, etc.)