The Thermal-Hydraulics Test Engineer III will serve as a recognized technical contributor within the testing organization and will be responsible for leading major portions of complex test programs, functional areas across multiple programs, or simpler test programs in their entirety. This position requires strong technical judgment, the ability to work independently on complex assignments, and the ability to integrate inputs from design engineering, analysis, licensing, quality assurance, vendors, and test sponsors.
The successful candidate will develop test requirements, plans, procedures, specifications, data analysis methods, and technical reports that support design validation, model development, regulatory engagement, and commercialization of Holtec’s SMR technology. The role also includes mentoring junior engineers, improving test methods and tools, and helping establish robust practices for thermal-hydraulic test planning, execution, documentation, and data quality.
Location: Camden, NJ with occasional travel to Idaho Falls up to 25%.
Primary Responsibilities:
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Lead the planning, development, execution, and documentation of thermal-hydraulic test programs supporting the SMR-300 design certification and commercialization effort.
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Develop test requirements, test plans, procedures, specifications, acceptance criteria, and test readiness documentation.
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Coordinate testing activities with design engineering, safety analysis, licensing, quality assurance, vendors, laboratories, and project stakeholders.
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Execute thermal-hydraulic, fluid systems, heat transfer, component, and system-level validation tests.
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Support commissioning, startup, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of test facilities and test equipment.
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Select, specify, install, and validate instrumentation for pressure, temperature, flow, level, differential pressure, heat flux, void fraction, and two-phase flow measurements.
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Oversee data acquisition systems, calibration activities, instrumentation performance, and data quality controls.
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Perform data reduction, engineering analysis, uncertainty evaluations, visualization, and interpretation of test results.
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Prepare technical reports, validation reports, engineering evaluations, and documentation supporting design verification and regulatory requirements.
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Evaluate test results against analytical models, design assumptions, and performance requirements to support technology development and licensing activities.
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Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve complex technical issues encountered during testing and facility operations.
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Support preparation of licensing-related technical documentation, regulatory submittals, and responses to stakeholder inquiries.
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Ensure compliance with applicable quality assurance requirements, engineering procedures, safety standards, and industry codes.
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Interface with external laboratories, equipment vendors, test sponsors, customers, and regulatory organizations.
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Present technical findings, test status updates, and engineering recommendations to management, project teams, customers, and regulatory stakeholders.
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Lead portions of large-scale test programs or independently manage smaller testing campaigns from planning through final reporting.
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Contribute to the development and improvement of testing methodologies, engineering tools, procedures, and best practices.
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Support scaling analyses, test matrix development, and validation strategies for advanced reactor systems.
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Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance on testing methods, data analysis, and engineering documentation.
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Support occasional travel to test facilities in Idaho Falls, ID and other locations as required for test execution and program support.
Requirements:
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Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
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6+ years of experience in thermal-hydraulics, test engineering, fluid systems, heat transfer, nuclear systems, or laboratory testing environments.
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Experience planning, executing, and documenting engineering test programs, including development of test plans, procedures, specifications, and acceptance criteria.
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Strong understanding of engineering drawings, P&IDs, design specifications, instrumentation, data acquisition systems, calibration practices, and engineering data analysis.
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Experience performing test data reduction, uncertainty analysis, troubleshooting, and technical evaluations in a QA-controlled or highly regulated environment.
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Knowledge of thermal-hydraulic instrumentation and industry codes and standards applicable to testing, system design, and equipment qualification.
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Strong technical writing, communication, and presentation skills with the ability to independently resolve complex technical issues and communicate findings to stakeholders.
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Ability to support commissioning activities, extended test campaigns, and occasional travel.
Preferred Qualifications
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Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
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Experience with nuclear thermal-hydraulic testing, test facility or test loop operations, and system validation programs.
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Knowledge of scaling analysis, thermal-hydraulic phenomena, test matrix development, and validation methodologies.
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Proficiency with engineering and data analysis tools such as Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW.
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Familiarity with ASME, IEEE, ISA, NQA-1, and NRC regulatory requirements.
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Experience supporting licensing documentation, validation reports, test readiness reviews, and regulatory interactions.
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Experience leading technical workstreams, mentoring engineers, and coordinating with vendors, laboratories, and external stakeholders.
A Generation Ahead by Design™
Investing in people who power the future.
We believe great work deserves great rewards. Our benefits go beyond the basics, reflecting our commitment to supporting your whole self…your health, your future, and your career growth. This includes:
Compensation:
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Annual compensation based on skills and experience ranging from $130,000 to $160,000
Benefits:
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Industry‑leading medical, dental, and vision coverage with a generous employer premium contribution and Day 1 eligibility!
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FLEX Program – Hybrid work opportunities available for eligible roles, where business needs and role requirements allow
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401(k) retirement plan with up to a 5% company match and immediate vesting to support long‑term financial security
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Paid time off and 11 paid holidays to support rest, balance, and recharge
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Wellness program offering rewards for participation in company‑supported health initiatives
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Commuter benefits supporting mass transit and commuter parking options
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Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance for added peace of mind
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Education assistance to support continued education and professional growth
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Employee support and voluntary benefits, including an Employee Assistance Program and optional coverage such as disability, legal, identity theft, and insurance programs
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Benefits eligibility and offerings may vary based on role, location, and employment status
If you’re driven to solve meaningful challenges and make a lasting impact, we invite you to build your career at Holtec—a generation ahead by design™.
