Chemical Engineer (Thorium Metallurgy & Chemistry)

Job Description Job Description Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Competitive salary Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Donation matching Employee discounts Health insurance Opportunity for advancement Wellness resources Chemical Engineer (Thorium Metallurgy & Chemistry) Location: Palm Beach Gardens, FL Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt About AMPERA AMPERA is redefining clean, sovereign energy with compact, ultra-safe nuclear systems that power AI, industry, and defense with zero emissions and unmatched reliability . Our modular micro-reactors combine the best of fusion and fission to deliver scalable, deployable, and inherently safe energy anywhere from AI data centers to remote or defense operations. As a fast-growing company, AMPERA merges the agility of a startup with the ambition of a global energy leader. Joining us means becoming part of a bold mission to revolutionize how the world generates and delivers power through advanced thorium fuel chemistry, nuclear metallurgy, and next-generation materials science . Position Overview AMPERA is seeking a Chemical Engineer with deep expertise in thorium metallurgy, fuel chemistry, and chemical process engineering to lead the development of AMPERAs thorium-based fuel cycle. This role will focus on the synthesis, purification, and metallurgical processing of thorium and associated fuel compounds for use in hybrid fission-fusion micro-reactors. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in molten salt chemistry, actinide metallurgy, fuel reprocessing, and high-temperature chemical systems , as well as familiarity with nuclear-grade material qualification and safety standards. Key Responsibilities Lead thorium and actinide chemistry R&D, including oxide reduction, alloy formation, and purification processes. Develop and optimize metallurgical processes for thorium-based fuels and structural materials under inert and reducing atmospheres. Design and operate experimental setups involving high-temperature furnaces, glove boxes, and corrosion-resistant systems. Characterize chemical and physical properties of thorium compounds (e.g., ThO, ThF, Th-U alloys) using analytical and spectroscopic methods. Collaborate with fuel development and materials teams to integrate thorium fuels with TRISO and LMJ-based fabrication systems. Perform thermodynamic and kinetic modeling to support process scale-up and reactor integration. Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and radiological safety standards (DOE, NRC, EPA). Document and present research results, contributing to fuel qualification and licensing efforts. Mentor junior engineers and support cross-functional collaboration between chemical, materials, and reactor teams. Qualifications Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or Nuclear Chemistry. 7+ years of experience in thorium or actinide chemistry, nuclear materials processing, or metallurgical R&D. Strong knowledge of high-temperature thermochemistry, reduction processes, and alloy formation . Experience with molten salt systems, fuel reprocessing, or metal refining preferred. Familiarity with radiation safety protocols, glove box handling, and contamination control. Excellent analytical, documentation, and problem-solving skills. U.S. citizenship or eligibility for security clearance may be required. What We Offer Competitive salary Comprehensive benefits package including healthcare, dental, vision, STD, LTD, Life/AD&D and 401(k). Opportunity to pioneer advanced nuclear fuel technologies driving the next generation of clean energy. Collaborative, mission-driven environment that fosters technical excellence and innovation. Career advancement potential as AMPERA expands its fuel development and reactor manufacturing programs.