Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Reactor Module

Oklo·Santa Clara, CA or Remote·Posted today

Nuclear industryUS only

About this role

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer responsible for designing critical reactor module hardware at Oklo's advanced fast reactor program, including large weldments, pressure vessels, and primary coolant systems. Own components from concept through fabrication readiness while ensuring safety, regulatory compliance (ASME BPVC), manufacturability, and system integration.

Responsibilities

—Develop and own design of complex mechanical components and subsystems within the reactor module
—Collaborate cross-functionally to define design and functional requirements, ensuring ASME BPVC and industry code compliance
—Translate functional requirements into robust CAD designs meeting structural, thermal, and integration constraints
—Conduct and participate in design reviews, providing and receiving technical feedback
—Evaluate mechanical designs to identify deficiencies and proactively propose solutions
—Generate and maintain detailed 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and bills of materials using PDM/PLM systems
—Coordinate with analysis teams to guide and interpret thermal, structural, fatigue, and safety analyses
—Perform detailed manufacturability reviews, tolerance studies, and DFM/DFA assessments
—Create and maintain engineering documentation including design rationales, functional requirements, and system architecture explanations
—Work closely with fabrication partners to refine designs for cost-effective production
—Manage engagements with external consultants and engineering firms for analysis and code compliance support
—Contribute to continuous improvement of mechanical design processes, tools, and standards

Qualifications

—Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
—8+ years of industry experience in mechanical or structural design in aerospace, automotive, energy, or industrial equipment sectors
—Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling (Siemens NX, CATIA, SolidWorks) including part modeling, large assemblies, and detailed drawings
—Experience with design control using PDM/PLM tools (Siemens Teamcenter, SolidWorks PDM, Windchill)
—Strong understanding of DFM, DFA, and tolerance stack-up analysis
—Ability to interpret and produce engineering drawings applying GD&T per ASME Y14.5 or equivalent
—Working knowledge of material selection (metals), manufacturing methods, and fabrication techniques
—Demonstrated ability to collaborate on cross-functional teams
—Strong written and verbal communication skills

Desired

—Experience designing large structural weldments and mechanical joints
—Familiarity with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Sections III or VIII
—Background in high-integrity or safety-critical systems design (nuclear, aerospace, defense, heavy industry)
—Proven ability to lead hardware projects through full development cycle from concept to production
—Experience working with external manufacturers and engineering consultants
—Knowledge of large-scale fabrication techniques and transportation/handling of large components
—Understanding of thermal-mechanical analysis principles and high-temperature design
—Basic knowledge of nuclear fission and radiation effects on materials