Job Description
Job DescriptionBenefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Competitive salary
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Materials Scientist
Location: Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt
About AMPERA
AMPERA is redefining clean, sovereign energy with compact, ultra-safe nuclear systems that power AI, industry, and defense with zero emissions and unmatched reliability. Our modular micro-reactors combine the best of fusion and fission to deliver scalable, deployable, and inherently safe energy anywhere from AI data centers to remote or defense operations.
As a fast-growing company, AMPERA blends the agility of a startup with the ambition of a global energy innovator. Joining us means becoming part of a bold mission to revolutionize how the world generates power through advanced materials, nuclear design, and additive manufacturing.
Position Overview
AMPERA is seeking an experienced Materials Scientist to lead the research, development, and qualification of advanced materials for AMPERAs compact nuclear reactors. This role focuses on high-temperature alloys, ceramics, coatings, and composites for structural, thermal, and fuel applications within next-generation micro-reactors.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in nuclear-grade materials, irradiation testing, and additive manufacturing integration particularly with Liquid Metal Jetting (LMJ) and powder metallurgy processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and characterize materials for fuel cladding, core structures, and reactor components.
- Evaluate material performance under neutron irradiation, high temperature, and corrosive environments.
- Collaborate with additive manufacturing teams to develop LMJ-compatible materials and optimize print parameters.
- Conduct microstructural and mechanical property analysis using SEM, EDS, XRD, and tensile testing.
- Support TRISO fuel matrix and coating material development.
- Establish material property databases for use in neutronic and thermal-mechanical models.
- Participate in irradiation experiments, PIE programs, and materials qualification for regulatory submissions.
- Coordinate with national labs, suppliers, and academic partners on collaborative R&D initiatives.
- Author technical reports and contribute to design review documentation.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. or M.S. in Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, or Metallurgical Engineering.
- 510 years of experience in advanced materials R&D, preferably within nuclear, aerospace, or defense industries.
- Expertise in high-temperature materials, ceramics, coatings, and metal alloys.
- Hands-on experience with additive manufacturing, powder metallurgy, or sintering technologies.
- Familiarity with irradiation testing, radiation damage analysis, and corrosion behavior.
- Strong analytical and communication skills with an experimental mindset.
- U.S. citizenship or eligibility for security clearance may be required.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive benefits package including healthcare, dental, vision, and 401(k).
- Opportunity to develop the materials foundation of next-generation nuclear systems.
- Collaborative, high-impact work environment that values technical innovation and creativity.
- Professional growth potential as AMPERA expands its advanced reactor and materials programs.