Senior Mechanical Engineer - Machine Design

About Aalo AtomicsAalo Atomics is pioneering a new era in clean energy with factory-fabricated microreactors designed to deliver affordable, scalable, and reliable nuclear power. Our mission is to make nuclear energy globally accessible, starting with the Aalo-1, a 10 MWe reactor leveraging cutting-edge safety, modularity, and efficiency. Based in Austin, TX, we’re rapidly growing as we work to deploy the world’s first fleet of advanced microreactors. Join us and help revolutionize energy for a sustainable future.About The RoleAs a Mechanical Engineer on the Fuel Handling System (FHS) team, you will design and build the core machinery that enables safe, reliable refueling and fuel processing for a sodium-cooled nuclear reactor. This includes complex electromechanical systems such as sealed handling machines, hoist and grapple mechanisms, shielding structures, valve and sealing systems, and sodium-compatible components.You will own subsystems end-to-end—from early concept and trade studies through detailed design, fabrication, testing, and commissioning. This is a highly hands-on role working directly alongside technicians and manufacturing engineers in a co-located design and fabrication environment.The systems you design will operate in extreme environments (radiation, high temperature sodium, inert gas) and must achieve high reliability with minimal operational complexity. You will be expected to move quickly, challenge assumptions, and iterate through testing.ResponsibilitiesOwn the design and delivery of mechanical subsystems within the fuel handling systemDesign mechanisms including hoists, grippers, turret systems, and handling interfaces for fuel assembliesDevelop robust sealing solutions for sodium-tolerant, air-tight systems and plug interfacesDesign structures and shielding systems to safely contain and transport radioactive materialWork closely with manufacturing to ensure designs are buildable, testable, and scalableLead hands-on prototyping, fabrication, and system integration effortsDevelop and execute test plans to validate performance in realistic environments (thermal, sodium exposure, inert gas, etc.)Iterate rapidly based on test data and operational feedbackCollaborate across disciplines (nuclear, thermal, controls) to integrate full system functionalitySupport installation, commissioning, and field operations (including some travel)Basic QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field6+ years of experience designing mechanical systemsStrong experience with mechanisms, structures, and/or sealing systemsProven track record of taking hardware from concept through build and testComfortable working hands-on in a fast-paced, hardware-focused environmentPreferred ExperienceExperience with high-temperature or chemically aggressive environments (e.g., sodium, vacuum, inert gas systems)Design of valves, seals, bellows, or pressure boundariesExperience with cranes, hoists, or precision handling mechanismsBackground in fluid systems (hydraulics, gas handling, or high-pressure systems)Exposure to nuclear, aerospace, or other high-reliability industriesExperience working closely with fabrication teams (machining, welding, assembly)Participation in hands-on engineering projects (e.g., robotics, race teams, hardware startups)PhysicalComfortable working on the factory floor alongside technicians and weldersAbility to lift up to 25 lbs and stand for extended periodsPhysical dexterity required for hands-on prototyping and assembly workRequirementsBased in the United StatesWilling to work on-site in Austin, TXWhat We OfferCompetitive salary starting at $130,000Health, Dental, Vision InsurancePaid Time OffCorporate Gym MembershipAdditional InformationAalo Atomics provides a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, intellectually challenging careers, and competitive compensation. Aalo Atomics is an equal opportunity employer and considers all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.Applicants must be U.S. Citizens or U.S. Persons in compliance with 10 CFR Part 810 and may not hold non-compliant foreign citizenships.Direct applicants only. No recruiters or staffing agencies, please.