Principal Engineer/ Mechanical Engineering Manager (Heat Exchanger Design)

Join our client, a leader in advanced nuclear reactor technology, and help pioneer the future of clean energy. We’re seeking a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to head our advanced mechanical design team responsible for the development of Steam Generators and Heat Exchangers for next-generation nuclear reactor applications – including the Small Modular Reactor (SMR).

This leadership role will drive the strategic direction and technical excellence of mechanical design operations for mission-critical reactor systems. The successful candidate will oversee the design, analysis, and manufacturing readiness of nuclear steam generator systems, ensuring design-for-manufacturability and alignment with ASME code standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a team of mechanical engineers in the design and optimization of heat exchangers and steam generators for advanced reactor systems.

• Oversee all phases of the mechanical design process – from concept to detailed design, testing, and product realization.

• Direct design cycle sprints and ensure engineering deliverables meet cost, quality, and schedule goals.

• Resolve technical design challenges and adjudicate design tradeoffs within mechanical systems scope.

• Mentor and develop engineers, fostering a culture of technical rigor and innovation.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with thermal, structural, materials, and manufacturing teams to mature designs for production.

• Develop and maintain engineering standards, methods, and tools for mechanical design and analysis.

• Apply design control procedures, maintain documentation, and participate in internal and external design reviews.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.

• 10+ years of mechanical design experience, including at least 4 years in heat exchanger or steam generator design.

• Demonstrated experience in design-for-manufacturing and mechanical system integration.

• Proficiency with CAD and PLM software (NX, SolidWorks, Pro/Engineer, Teamcenter, or Windchill).

• Experience in applying ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code.

• Strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) license.

• Experience with thermal-hydraulic and structural analyses of heat exchangers or tube bundles.

• Familiarity with nuclear power plant components or industrial boiler systems (HRSGs, high-pressure systems).

• Background in materials selection for high-temperature, high-pressure environments.

• Experience leading multi-disciplinary design teams or managing design organizations.

Thomas-Thor provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Rebekah Lauren Morris