High Thermo-Mechanical Properties Test Lead
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 Temp Thermo-Mechanical Properties Test Lead, you will be part of a team assisting multiple nuclear development projects in Lynchburg, VA. The individual will be 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 Thermo-Mechanical Properties Test Lead:**
- Develop and implement material characterization methodologies and testing capabilities focused on thermo-physical properties, including temperature-dependent diffusivity, heat capacity, coefficient of thermal expansion, and mechanical strength.
- Operate and maintain a high temperature mechanical testing furnace along with a suite of characterization instruments such as Laser Flash Analysis (LFA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA), and Dilatometry to evaluate novel nuclear fuel forms.
- Perform thermo-physical property characterization on samples from diverse R&D and prototype production programs.
- Collaborate closely with materials scientists, chemical engineers, and other stakeholders to identify and apply appropriate characterization techniques that provide critical data to support R&D objectives.
- Mentor and support the broader team in the characterization of ceramics, metals, composites, and nuclear fuel 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 of study (e.g. Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, Nuclear Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Physics, Chemistry, etc.) is required.
- 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 background in characterization of inorganic materials, including nuclear materials, metals, ceramics, and composites.
- Experience with ASTM standards for thermo-physical property testing.
- Familiarity with ISO or NQA-1 quality programs for materials testing.
- Hands-on experience or foundational knowledge in thermal diffusivity (LFA), calorimetry (DSC/STA), dilatometry, and mechanical testing at elevated temperatures exceeding 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!