Senior Vacuum Systems Engineer

Job Description

Senior Vacuum Systems Engineer

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Join an advanced technology programme developing next-generation laser-based uranium enrichment systems. This is a rare opportunity to work at the forefront of nuclear innovation, designing highly specialised vacuum and gas handling systems that enable one of the most sophisticated industrial processes in the world.

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As a Senior Vacuum Systems Engineer, you will play a critical role in the design, deployment, and optimisation of complex vacuum architectures operating with corrosive, high-purity fluorinated gases. Working alongside experts in laser technology, process engineering, and nuclear operations, you will help shape the infrastructure underpinning a first-of-a-kind enrichment facility.

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Key Responsibilities

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• Design and optimise advanced vacuum and gas handling systems, including chambers, piping networks, and process equipment.
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• Select and specify vacuum pumps and pumping trains based on performance, reliability, and chemical compatibility requirements.
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• Develop P&IDs, system specifications, and engineering documentation.
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• Model gas flow, conductance, pressure profiles, and system performance using engineering simulation tools.
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• Design and integrate trapping, recovery, and contamination-control systems.
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• Define materials of construction and corrosion mitigation strategies for challenging process environments.
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• Work closely with vendors, suppliers, and multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop and deploy critical systems.
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• Support installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, testing, and operational readiness activities.
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• Ensure compliance with nuclear, safety, and engineering standards throughout the project lifecycle.
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What We're Looking For

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• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
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• 7+ years of experience designing vacuum systems, gas handling systems, or high-purity process equipment.
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• Strong understanding of vacuum pump technologies, gas dynamics, conductance, and system performance.
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• Experience using Aspen Plus, ChemCad, or similar engineering simulation tools.
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• Background in highly regulated industries such as nuclear, semiconductor, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, or specialty chemicals.
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• Strong knowledge of P&IDs, instrumentation, process design, and equipment specification.
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• Ability to work effectively with suppliers, regulators, and cross-functional engineering teams.
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Highly Desirable

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• Experience with fluorinated gases, uranium processing, enrichment, or nuclear fuel cycle technologies.
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• Knowledge of vacuum systems operating in corrosive or moisture-sensitive environments.
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• Familiarity with UHV or semiconductor-grade vacuum systems.
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• Experience with HAZOP, FMEA, or other safety-focused engineering methodologies.
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Why Apply?

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• Work on cutting-edge laser and nuclear technologies with global significance.
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• Solve complex engineering challenges at the intersection of physics, chemistry, and advanced manufacturing.
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• Join a highly technical team developing next-generation fuel cycle infrastructure.
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• Play a key role in delivering a first-of-a-kind facility and technology platform.
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• Be part of an organisation driving innovation in energy security and advanced industrial systems.
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Location: Oak Ridge, TN

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Relocation assistance available for exceptional candidates.