Director of Engineering (Knoxville Metropolitan Area)

Job Summary: We're seeking an experienced Director of Engineering to lead the development of a nuclear fuel recycling facility, from preliminary design through detailed engineering, regulatory licensing, procurement, and construction. This is a hands-on leadership opportunity within a newly established business unit, where you'll build an engineering team, establish technical standards, and develop practical solutions for complex engineering challenges. This position offers the flexibility to work remotely for the first six months. After this initial period, relocation will be required to the future facility location within the United States, which is currently being determined. Relocation assistance is available.

What You'll Do: Build and lead a multidisciplinary engineering team, including hiring, mentoring, and developing engineers while establishing high standards for technical execution. Direct engineering design and development for a nuclear chemical processing facility, overseeing technical requirements, equipment specifications, project schedules, and budgets. Lead complex technical decisions, engineering reviews, hazard assessments, and risk evaluations to ensure safe, practical, and cost-effective facility designs. Partner with licensing, operations, and technical teams to navigate regulatory requirements, support NRC licensing activities, and advance the facility toward construction. Drive the transition from early-stage technology to a scalable commercial operation, balancing engineering rigor with the urgency of bringing new technology to market.

What You'll Bring: A bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline. At least 10 years of relevant engineering experience, including demonstrated success leading and developing technical teams. Experience in nuclear, oil and gas, or large-scale chemical processing environments involving complex engineering systems and stringent safety or regulatory requirements. A strong technical foundation in facility design, engineering requirements, equipment selection, and complex process systems, with the ability to review and challenge detailed engineering work. Proven leadership, sound technical judgment, and the ability to build effective engineering teams while moving complex projects forward. Experience in nuclear fuel-cycle processing, radiochemistry, nuclear safety analysis, pilot-to-commercial scale-up, or NRC/DOE-regulated facilities is highly valued. Experience in both national laboratory and commercial engineering environments is also a plus. We offer a competitive base salary of $175,000–$225,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with a comprehensive compensation package and relocation assistance. You'll also have the opportunity to help establish a new business unit, influence critical technical decisions, and build an engineering organization from the ground up. If you're an experienced engineering leader who wants to take on a technically demanding challenge and help shape the future of nuclear fuel recycling, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help turn groundbreaking nuclear technology into a real-world solution.