Materials Scientist

Benefits:

401(k)

401(k) matching

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Donation matching

Employee discounts

Opportunity for advancement

Wellness resources

Materials Scientist

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 blends the agility of a startup with the ambition of a global energy innovator. Joining us means becoming part of a bold mission to revolutionize how the world generates power through advanced materials, nuclear design, and additive manufacturing.

Position Overview

AMPERA is seeking an experienced Materials Scientist to lead the research, development, and qualification of advanced materials for AMPERA’s compact nuclear reactors. This role focuses on high-temperature alloys, ceramics, coatings, and composites for structural, thermal, and fuel applications within next-generation micro-reactors.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in nuclear-grade materials, irradiation testing, and additive manufacturing integration — particularly with Liquid Metal Jetting (LMJ) and powder metallurgy processes.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and characterize materials for fuel cladding, core structures, and reactor components.

Evaluate material performance under neutron irradiation, high temperature, and corrosive environments.

Collaborate with additive manufacturing teams to develop LMJ-compatible materials and optimize print parameters.

Conduct microstructural and mechanical property analysis using SEM, EDS, XRD, and tensile testing.

Support TRISO fuel matrix and coating material development.

Establish material property databases for use in neutronic and thermal-mechanical models.

Participate in irradiation experiments, PIE programs, and materials qualification for regulatory submissions.

Coordinate with national labs, suppliers, and academic partners on collaborative R&D initiatives.

Author technical reports and contribute to design review documentation.

Qualifications

Ph.D. or M.S. in Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, or Metallurgical Engineering.

5–10 years of experience in advanced materials R&D, preferably within nuclear, aerospace, or defense industries.

Expertise in high-temperature materials, ceramics, coatings, and metal alloys.

Hands-on experience with additive manufacturing, powder metallurgy, or sintering technologies.

Familiarity with irradiation testing, radiation damage analysis, and corrosion behavior.

Strong analytical and communication skills with an experimental mindset.

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.