We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and procurement of the Remote Handling Systems for the subcritical assembly of an Energy Amplifier.
About Subcritical Systems Inc.
Subcritical Systems Inc. is a funded startup based in Austin, Texas dedicated to bringing the energy amplifier concept to the United States for safe generation of electrical power. Using a particle accelerator to sustain fission of nuclear fuel in a subcritical core, our innovative approach aims to transform energy production. The founding team is comprised of entrepreneurs with a history of building cutting-edge technology companies and scientists from US national labs with deep experience in energy amplifier technologies. Subcritical Systems is venture-backed and actively hiring to expand its dynamic team, working towards licensing, regulatory submissions and construction of its first energy amplifier.
About the Role
We are seeking a creative and dynamic Mechanical Engineer to join our growing team in a full-time, on-site role located in Austin, TX. In this role you will lead the design, prototyping, and procurement of the remote handling and maintenance of the Energy Amplifier’s molten-Pb-cooled subcritical assembly, with a focus on defining how the reactor will be serviced, from inspection and component replacement to long-term maintenance and decommissioning. This is an ideal role for an ambitious, creative and hard-working engineer who wants to use their expertise to transform the energy system and in so doing change the world. We cannot accept candidates who require visas/sponsorship at this time.
Responsibilities:
- Serve as an integral member of the subcritical assembly team responsible for designing, prototyping, and ultimately constructing the subcritical core.
- Develop and assess concepts for remote handling, inspection, and maintenance systems for a Pb-cooled subcritical assembly, to include fresh fuel insertion into and spent fuel removal from deep within a molten Pb pool.
- Define maintenance philosophies and access strategies (in-vessel, ex-vessel, modular replacement, tooling approaches).
- Break down maintenance operations into functional tasks and propose remote, automated, or semi-remote solutions.
- Identify and manage design constraints related to high radiation, high temperature, Pb coolant, corrosion, contamination, and limited access.
- Lead trade studies to balance safety, simplicity, operability, cost, and schedule.
- Engage with vendors, national labs, or research partners as needed.
- Work with the leadership team on developing & tracking key company technical milestones, ensuring delivery of results within aggressive timelines in a complex, fast-paced environment.
- Contribute to discussions around licensing strategy, ALARA, and operational safety, especially as they relate to maintainability.
- Document work in written reports, presentations, and regulatory submissions.
About You:
- M.S. (preferred) or B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or similar field.
- Experience with conceptual or early-phase mechanical design of complex systems.
- Exposure to remote handling and maintainability engineering in hazardous or constrained environments.
- Record of technical accomplishment through publications and presentations.
- Strong work ethic, resilient, able to work in a fast-paced environment, driven, passionate about the field.
Pluses:
- Experience in nuclear, fusion, hot-cell operations, aerospace, defense, or other high-hazard industries.
- Familiarity with liquid metal systems (Pb, PbBi, or Na), high-temperature components, or corrosive environments.
- Understanding of radiation-aware design, shielding considerations, and contamination control.
- Experience contributing to first-of-a-kind systems or technology development programs.
- Comfort working in small teams with high individual ownership.
What We Offer:
- A high-impact role where your work has real-world application in addressing the nation’s energy challenges via the development of truly forward-looking approaches and technology.
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience and technical expertise.
- Comprehensive healthcare insurance.
- The chance to work alongside world-class entrepreneurs and well-known scientific leaders.
- An opportunity to work in a fast-paced startup environment.