Senior Process Engineer

About the role

This role defines, delivers, and operates helium process systems for high-temperature gas-cooled reactor technology. Success in this role enables scalable, factory-made nuclear energy solutions for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing.

Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.

Key facts

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related engineering discipline is required. At least 5 years of experience designing industrial process systems, gas handling systems, thermal-fluid systems, or related energy systems is required. Proven experience delivering complex engineered systems from concept through commissioning or operational deployment is required. A strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and process engineering principles is required. Experience developing PFDs, P&IDs, process calculations, equipment specifications, and system operating procedures is required. Familiarity with industrial instrumentation, process controls, and gas analysis systems is required. Excellent technical communication, documentation, and cross-functional leadership skills are required.

Nice to have

A Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Experience with helium systems, cryogenic systems, high-pressure gas systems, gas purification, vacuum systems, or high-temperature process equipment is preferred. Experience with high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), advanced reactor technologies, or other nuclear energy systems is preferred. Familiarity with helium coolant chemistry, impurity control, moisture management, graphite compatibility, and gas sampling systems is preferred. Working knowledge of ASME B31.3 Process Piping, ASME Section VIII Pressure Vessels, and applicable industrial gas handling standards is preferred. Hands-on experience supporting commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and performance optimization of first-of-a-kind process systems is preferred. Experience participating in design reviews, HAZOPs, FMEAs, and system safety analyses is preferred.

Practical notes

citizenship or lawful permanent residency is required. The role may involve limited travel. Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

Work in advanced nuclear energy and high-temperature process systems. Use engineering analysis and documentation to guide system decisions. Collaborate with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and operations in a fast-paced startup environment. Apply fundamental principles to solve novel process challenges. Focus on quality, safety, and manufacturability across the system lifecycle.

Career growth

Engineering careers usually progress from individual contributor to senior, staff, and principal levels. Some engineers move into management and lead teams of five to twenty people. Others stay on the technical track. Growth follows demonstrated impact, not tenure alone. A typical engineering ladder has clear levels with defined expectations for scope, quality, and mentorship. Moving up usually requires owning outcomes end to end rather than completing assigned tickets.