Materials Scientist

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits :

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.