Instrumentation and Control Engineer

Location: San Francisco, CA

About Hadron Energy

Hadron Energy specializes in Micro Modular Reactor (MMR) development, design, and research based in the San Francisco Bay Area. As the leading MMR developer, Hadron Energy is building factory-produced, transportable microreactors that provide 24/7 carbon-free power for data centers, government facilities, industrial sites, and remote communities. Our mission is to create a brighter, healthier, and more equitable energy future.

Role Overview

This is a full-time on-site role for an Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. The position is ideal for candidates with extensive nuclear I&C experience who are passionate about advancing safe, scalable nuclear technology.

You will be responsible for the design, specification, integration, and validation of control, protection, and monitoring systems for Hadron’s micro modular reactor. This includes developing reactor protection system logic, control strategies for balance-of-plant systems, and implementing safety-critical I&C architectures in compliance with nuclear regulatory requirements.

The role requires close collaboration with reactor physics, thermal-hydraulics, electrical, and regulatory engineering teams. You will have opportunities for hands-on design, vendor engagement, and innovation in a fast-paced startup environment focused on next-generation nuclear systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead design and specification of I&C systems for nuclear and balance-of-plant applications
• Develop reactor protection system logic, alarm and monitoring systems, and control room interfaces
• Ensure compliance with nuclear safety, cybersecurity, and regulatory standards (NRC, IEEE, IEC)
• Oversee hardware/software integration, including sensors, PLCs, digital control systems, and HMIs
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to define I&C requirements, architecture, and verification plans
• Coordinate development of instrumentation and data acquisition systems with third party partners
• Support factory acceptance testing (FAT), site integration, and commissioning of I&C systems
• Engage with vendors and regulators to ensure design compliance and qualification of safety-critical equipment

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Electrical, Mechanical or Nuclear Engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in I&C for nuclear power plants or nuclear systems (reactors, test facilities, or advanced reactors)
• Strong understanding of nuclear safety-class I&C systems, regulatory frameworks, and qualification processes
• Proficiency with digital I&C system design, including PLC/DCS programming and hardware integration
• Experience with radiation monitoring systems, reactor trip/protection systems, and safety interlocks
• Familiarity with cybersecurity requirements for nuclear I&C systems (NEI 08-09, NRC guidance, or IEC 62645)
• Hands-on experience with system testing, verification, and validation
• Excellent communication, documentation, and teamwork skills
• Startup-minded approach with a passion for clean energy and innovative problem-solving