Idaho National Laboratory · 1 day ago
Fuel Performance Modeling Analyst
Idaho Falls, ID
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$79K/yr - $163K/yr
2+ years expIdaho National Laboratory is hiring a Fuel Performance Modeling Analyst to work within the Nuclear Science and Technology Directorate. The successful candidate will perform advanced modeling and simulation activities focused on nuclear fuel performance, integrating experimental data with predictive computational tools.
BiofuelEnergyHomeland SecurityInformation Technology
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Conduct fuel performance modeling and simulation using finite-element methods and including tools such as BISON, RELAP5-3D, and other similar or complementary codes
Support the design and analysis of fuel irradiation experiments and transient testing by providing predictive modeling and post-test evaluation
Develop, calibrate, and validate material and physical models using PIE and experimental data from INL test reactors
Integrate thermal-hydraulic boundary conditions with fuel performance models to ensure high-fidelity representation of in-reactor conditions
Perform sensitivity and uncertainty quantification to assess model confidence and guide future experimental efforts
Collaborate across INL’s reactor operations, PIE, and modeling groups to advance fuel qualification efforts for various reactor types
Contribute to technical reports, journal articles, and conference presentations
Pursue new research directions and potential funding opportunities in nuclear fuel modeling and simulation
Demonstrate potential for leadership in project management, mentoring, and technical direction
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science or a related ABET accredited field and 2 years of relevant experience; OR a Master or PhD in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science or a related ABET accredited field and 0 years relevant experience of experience
Bachelor's in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science or a related ABET accredited field and 5 years of relevant experience; OR a Master or PhD in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science or a related ABET accredited field and 2 years relevant experience of experience
Demonstrated experience with fuel performance codes and/or thermal-hydraulics codes (RELAP5-3D or similar)
Strong background in finite element modeling, heat transfer, solid mechanics, and materials behavior under irradiation
Proven ability to work effectively in collaborative, multi-disciplinary research environments
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a record of technical publications or presentations
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy 'L' clearance, which requires US Citizenship
Preferred
Experience with finite element codes and programming
Experience with coupled multi-physics simulations involving fuel performance and thermal-hydraulics (and neutronics)
Familiarity with transient testing and/or metallic fuels
Working knowledge of PIE data interpretation and experiment-informed model calibration
Understanding of code development practices, verification and validation (V&V), and uncertainty quantification
Benefits
Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match
Paid time off (personal leave)
Employee Education Program (tuition assistance)
Comprehensive Relocation Package
Company
Idaho National Laboratory
Idaho National Laboratory USDOE is a research laboratory focused on the development, demonstration, and deployment of nuclear energy.
5001-10000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$7.5MKey Investors
US Department of EnergyU.S. Department of Homeland Security
2024-07-02Grant· $7.5M
2023-01-17Grant
Leadership Team
David Teter
Deputy Laboratory Director of Management & Operations / Chief Operations Officer
Recent News
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