Multiphysics Thermal Hydraulic Analyst

Idaho National Laboratory seeking a Multiphysics Thermal-Hydraulic Analyst to join the Reactor Systems and Heat Transport Department. This multi-level position focuses on analysis and modeling of nuclear reactor systems using RELAP5-3D coupled with multiphysics computational tools (MOOSE or others), supporting the evaluation of reactor performance, safety margins, and experimental systems.

The successful candidate will perform thermal-hydraulic analyses of reactor systems and experiments, develop detailed RELAP5-3D models from design specifications, and conduct steady-state and transient simulations to evaluate system behavior under operational and accident conditions. The role will also involve integration of system-level models with higher-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and multiphysics tools to better understand complex thermal-hydraulic phenomena.

Analyses will support advanced reactor technologies, including high temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), sodium fast reactors (SFRs), and molten salt reactor systems (MSRs), as well as experimental test facilities and reactor system configurations relevant to DOE programs. The position also contributes to improving the predictive capability, validation basis, and usability of RELAP5-3D for advanced reactor applications.

Essential Job Functions:

• Develop and maintain RELAP5-3D system models representing reactor systems, experimental facilities, and thermal-hydraulic test configurations.
• Perform steady-state and transient analyses to evaluate reactor performance, operational behavior, and safety margins.
• Conduct thermal-hydraulic analyses of advanced reactor concepts, including HTGR, SFR, and MSR technologies.
• Use best practices in design methodologies to develop and validate designs.
• Document designs to ensure conformance with requirements and standards.
• Prepare technical reports, analysis documentation, and presentations for internal stakeholders and program sponsors.
• Integrate system-level analysis with higher-fidelity CFD and Multiphysics tools to investigate localized thermal-hydraulic phenomena and improve model fidelity

• Support verification and validation (V&V) activities by comparing simulation results with experimental data, benchmark problems, and analytical solutions.

Required:

• Level 3: Masters of Science in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or a related field and 2 years of relevant experience; or PhD in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or a related field and 2 years of relevant experience.

• Level 4: Masters of Science in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or a related field and 6 years of relevant experience; or PhD in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or a related field and 4 years of relevant experience.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE security clearance (depending on the assigned directorate).
• This position requires that you be able to obtain and maintain a DOE "Q" Clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship.

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Experience with RELAP5-3D or similar system codes.
• Exposure to nuclear reactor systems and safety analysis.
• Knowledge of V&V methodologies and technical documentation practices.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job Information:

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Multiphysics Thermal-Hydraulic Analyst to work on our Reactor Systems and Heat Transport Department. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our REC facility with every other Friday off.

• The pay range for this position is: Level 3 ($95,256 - $195,288) / Level 4 ($114,360 - $234,336). At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.

• Multi-Level: This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.
• TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

Benefits and Relocation

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
• Paid time off (personal leave)
• Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
• Comprehensive Relocation Package
• Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission:

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision:

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements:

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation:

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information:

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.