High-Temperature Materials Test Lead (Lynchburg, VA, US)
At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers. Our company supplies precision manufactured components, services and fuel for the commercial nuclear power industry across four continents. Our joint ventures provide environmental restoration and operations management at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical radioisotope production in North America and microreactors for various defense and space applications. For more information, visit Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram. Welcome to BWXT We believe in empowering our employees and cultivating a dynamic workplace that fosters growth and collaboration. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find opportunities to challenge yourself, learn from seasoned experts, and contribute to nuclear innovation. We required a diverse range of skills to support our work in the markets that drive our business and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life stages who are passionate about making a difference. BWXT is People Strong, Innovation Driven - be part of BWXT's innovation hub. BWXT's Advanced Technologies (AT) group researches, designs, and develops innovative new nuclear reactors, nuclear rocket propulsion systems, and radioisotope production systems for both internal and external customers. If you are looking for a career where your experience is valued, innovative thinking is fostered, and barrier-free teamwork is embraced every day, then this opportunity is for you. Position Overview: As our High-Temperature Materials Test Lead, you will be part of a team assisting multiple nuclear development projects in Lynchburg, VA. This role is responsible for defining standard test methodologies, performing materials testing, and mentoring peers; while supporting a wide variety of programs for space, defense, and commercial customers. Location: On-site in Lynchburg, VA at the Advanced Technologies Office Your Day to Day as a High-Temperature Materials Test Lead:
- Develop material characterization methodologies and testing capabilities to support material development programs; this includes temperature dependent diffusivity, heat capacity, coefficient of thermal expansion, and mechanical strength testing.
- Perform characterization on samples submitted from a variety of different research and development or prototype production programs.
- Interface with materials and chemical engineers to identify what techniques can help provide the critical objective criteria needed for R&D activities.
- Support and mentor the broader team with materials characterization of ceramics, metals, and composite materials.
- Support the operations manager in the build-out, commissioning, and safety documentation for the testing facility.
- A minimum of a bachelor's degree in a technical field is required (e.g., Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, Nuclear Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Physics, Chemistry, etc.).
- A minimum of fifteen (15) years of relevant experience is required. Applicants with an engineering or physics degree require a minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience.
- Must have strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to multi-task.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is required.
- MS or PhD in materials science, chemistry, or a related field is highly desired.
- Strong understanding in the characterization of inorganics materials (nuclear materials, metals, ceramics, composites, etc.).
- Experience in performing characterization under ASTM standards.
- Experience in performing characterization under an ISO or NQA-1 quality program.
- Experience or foundational understanding of some subset of the following techniques: thermal diffusivity, dilatometry, calorimetry, and mechanical testing at elevated temperatures in excess of 1200 °C (2240 °F).
- Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
- Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work-life balance.
- Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
- An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
- The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
- Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!