Test Engineer

About NANO Nuclear Energy

NANO Nuclear Energy is an advanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation microreactor systems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and resilient energy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, LOKI MMR™ Energy System, and ZEUS™ Solid Core Battery Reactor—advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technologies designed for applications including data centers, industrial operations, remote communities, and critical infrastructure—the company is advancing innovative nuclear solutions for a rapidly evolving energy landscape. NANO Nuclear has also submitted a Construction Permit Application (CPA) to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to support the planned deployment of the KRONOS MMR at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), representing a significant milestone toward the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology.

Joining NANO Nuclear means contributing to pioneering technologies with the potential to redefine the nuclear industry while working alongside experts in engineering, science, and innovation. Our team operates in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where employees are encouraged to solve challenging technical problems and advance the materials technologies needed for next-generation energy systems. 

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution and continuous improvement of complex testing programs for safety-critical systems. This role is responsible for designing and overseeing test strategies, ensuring testing is executed safely, consistently and in compliance with quality standards, while partnering closely with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver reliable, high-quality results.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with proven leadership experience, bringing the ability to design experiments based on principles of engineering and physics, interpret data, solve complex technical challenges, and drive projects from concept through execution. This individual thrives in highly regulated environments, understands quality assurance principles, and is comfortable working directly with hardware, instrumentation and integrated test equipment. Requires up to 10-15% travel. 

Candidates with experience in nuclear, aerospace, defense, space, chemical processing, industrial systems, or other heavy industrial environments are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience in pharmaceutical environments will be considered when it includes large-scale, safety critical equipment testing rather than laboratory or formulation work.

Key Responsibilities

• The test facility is currently being built out and being equipped over the coming months. The individual will partner with engineering to ensure the facility is properly equipped.
• Design, modify, and execute test plans and experimental setups, including gaining approvals and ensuring proper documentation.
• Collect data that supports engineering decisions through rigorous testing and clear communication of results.
• Lead and conduct test design reviews, proposals, and supporting documentation
• Maintain test equipment, fixtures, parts, and materials.
• Execute testing safely, repeatably, and in compliance with quality standards.
• Operate in compliance with ELS/EHS standards.

  Qualifications

• Must be a hands‑on engineer, comfortable using complex equipment and working directly with hardware and test setups.
• Experience working in highly regulated industries.
• Must have acted as a lead investigator or technical lead on test programs or projects
• Experience with:
  • Pressurized systems, pressure vessels, piping, and associated safety considerations
  • Instrumentation, measurements, and basic data acquisition concepts (integration, validation, asking the right questions)
  • Able to design experiments, execute them, and interpret results, not just oversee others
• Quality Assurance is a major focus, candidate must understand QA principles and operate comfortably in regulated environments
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with accurate and detailed test descriptions and results
• Comfortable modifying plans as needed, getting approval, and executing effectively
• BS in Engineering or in a related field

  Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Nuclear Engineering or related field.
• Excellent problem-solving and collaboration skills.
• Test experience in the nuclear industry.
• Use of automated data collection and analysis techniques.

  Salary range and levels for this role:

• Level II: Typically, three years of experience in an engineering role required.
• Level III: Typically, five years of experience in an engineering role required.
• Level IV: Typically, ten years of experience in an engineering role required.
• Level V: Typically, fifteen years of experience in an engineering role required.
• Level VI: Typically, twenty years of experience in an engineering role required.

Level II $85,000- $120,000; Level III: $120,000- $145,000; Level IV: $145,000- 170,000; Level V: $170,000- $195,000; Level VI: $185,000- $215,000

This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the role and may encompass responsibilities across multiple functions or levels within the organization. The scope of the position, title, responsibilities and compensation will be determined based on the specific needs of the business, as well as the candidate's experience, qualifications and level of expertise. The salary range provided, where applicable, is intentionally broad is not indicative of a single level or final compensation offer. Actual compensation will be determined based on relevant experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity and other applicable factors.

  What We Offer 

• A collaborative engineering culture focused on innovation and technical excellence. 
• Opportunities for mentorship, professional growth, and technical leadership.
• The opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, more reliable energy future.
• Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance with generous company contributions.
• Company 401(k) plan with 5% match.
• Unlimited PTO policy with company holidays and paid parental leave.

Equal Opportunity Statement 

NANO Nuclear Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply.