Lead Engineer – Power Systems Design

Deep Fission is seeking a Senior Engineer to lead the engineering and design of Power Systems for the reactor pilot project. This person will lead the rankine cycle design and selection. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in nuclear Power Systems, construction, interdisciplinary interface and technical subcontract management. This role requires comfort operating in first-of-a-kind environments where precedent is limited, requirements evolve, and creative problem-solving is essential. The Lead Engineer - Power Systems design will serve as a leader by coordinating alignment between multiple engineering disciplines, construction, procurement, equipment suppliers, power customers and licensing.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform design and design oversight for power systems and components like turbine generator systems, steam condensers, steam/feedwater systems, and generator switch gear - from conceptual development through licensing, fabrication, construction, startup, and turnover. 
• Produce proposed conceptual design including basic layout information, draft process flow diagrams and conceptual single line diagrams. 
• Ensure effective coordination with the other engineering disciplines to maintain alignment on technical scope.
• Advance designs rapidly in a dynamic environment, applying sound engineering judgment and calculated risk management.
• Function to interface between partner organizations and major subcontractors.  Will perform as the major interface for power equipment interfaces and reactor systems.
• Lead general design coordination events such as Power Systems design reviews and in-person design workshops.
• Promote a proactive nuclear safety culture across office and field-based activities.
• Advocate for the Deep Fission company and its technology.
• Participate in project planning (schedule and budgeting) and be prepared to commit to delivery against the project plan.
• Coordinates, or prepare specifications, procurement documents and award recommendations.
• Provides assistance to project and construction management for Electrical/I&C requirements, identifying issues as they arise during project execution.

Required Skills & Experience

• 10+ years of experience in the relevant engineering discipline, including successful delivery of engineered systems providing power generation to the US electrical grid.
• Background in regulated environments such as nuclear, aerospace, defense, utility or industrial capital projects.
• Experience with turbine generator systems, steam condensers, steam/feedwater systems, and generator switch gear.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical field with a deep understanding of engineering fundamentals and modern design practices.
• Understanding of nuclear QA programs (e.g., NQA-1), and compliance documentation.
• Proven ability to perform in a senior design role leading, or coordinating large design efforts with multiple interfaces and stakeholders.
• Ability to maintain communication and stakeholder engagement in a virtual and hybrid team environment.
• Ability to travel - Candidate will be required to travel on a moderate basis depending on the project phase up to 20%.
• Must be a U.S. person eligible to meet DOE Export Control requirements under 10 CFR 810

Desired Skills & Experience

• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE)
• Experience with SMRs, Gen IV technologies, or first-of-a-kind nuclear reactor development.
• Demonstrated experience navigating NRC or DOE regulations. Strong understanding of nuclear QA programs (e.g., NQA-1), and compliance documentation.
• Advanced degree (MS or MBA) in Engineering or other technical field.
• Background in nuclear construction, site development, or commissioning of safety-related systems.
• Proficiency with engineering software tools and AI-enabled platforms.
• Experience in startup or innovation-driven organizations.
• Project management experience a plus

Key Competencies:

• Design Acumen – Ability to make assumptions and establish design concepts based on wisdom gained from experience and education.
• Organizational – Experience on structured engineering teams functioning with other engineering disciplines, and subcontractors to support project objectives.
• Subcontractor Management – Ability to achieve engineering objectives utilizing subcontracted services.
• Adaptability/Resilience - The capacity to adjust actions, strategies, and behaviors in response to unexpected or ambiguous situations, learning and pivoting quickly.
• Stakeholder Influence – Builds trust and alignment across internal teams, regulators, and partner organizations
• Decision-Making – Balances technical rigor with business trade-offs; uses data and judgment effectively.