Mechanical Test Engineer

Job Summary 

Kairos Power is seeking a Mechanical Test Engineer with experience designing, building, and operating complex systems that integrate mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical components. This role focuses on the development of test systems that support the advancement of Kairos Power’s nuclear reactor subsystems. 

The ideal candidate will contribute to both conceptual and detailed design efforts across multiple engineering domains and must be proficient in mechanical CAD with a strong understanding of engineering fundamentals. We’re looking for a collaborative, hands-on, and detail-oriented engineer who enjoys working in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment. 

Responsibilities 

• Design and develop thermal, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical systems used in test, prototyping, and operational environments. 
• Create and revise engineering drawings and models for components and assemblies using CAD tools. 
• Collaborate with engineers, lab technicians, and manufacturing staff to implement and maintain test systems. 
• Assist with the fabrication, assembly, and troubleshooting of test setups and hardware. 
• Support test operations by monitoring equipment performance and collecting data. 
• Develop and write procedures and documentation for test execution and system operation. 
• Prepare technical reports that summarize test results and that identify opportunities for design improvement. 
• Lead and contribute to design reviews, incorporating feedback to improve system performance reliability. 
• Support continuous improvement of engineering processes and documentation standards. 
• Engage in professional development activities, including technical learning and peer collaboration. 
• Support other duties as assigned, including occasional travel. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. 
• 3+ years of relevant industry experience in mechanical system design, prototyping, or testing. 
• Proficient in mechanical CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred). 
• Experience working collaboratively in multi-disciplinary teams. 
• Experience with systems that integrate pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical system components. 
• Experience with lab instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and control systems. 
• Experience with mechanism design, assembly, and development. 
• Experience with manufacturing techniques and processes. 
• Experience in regulated industries such as nuclear or aerospace is a plus. 

 Knowledge, Skills & Abilities 

• Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals and design principles across thermal, fluid, and mechanical domains. 
• Strong technical writing and documentation skills. 
• Proficiency with CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred). 
• Working knowledge of engineering drawing standards (e.g., GD&T). 
• Familiarity with engineering analysis tools (e.g., FEA, CFD, heat transfer, kinematic analysis, system modeling, circuit simulation). 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable working in a collaborative, team-oriented environment. 

 Physical Demands 

• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, scissor lifts, articulated boom lifts and the like.
• Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
• Adjusting, moving, transporting, installing, positioning, or removing objects up to 50 pounds in all directions. 

Environmental Conditions 

• General office environment 
• Prototyping/Test Facilities 
• Manufacturing/Industrial Environments 

Safety and PPE 

• Reading and interpreting hazardous warning signs 
• Manipulating, cleaning and disposal of hazardous materials 
• Reporting issues with equipment or unsafe conditions 
• Color identification: detecting, distinguishing, recognizing and identifying colors 
• Wearing proper PPE, to include face mask, face shields, gloves, safety shoes, etc. 

Travel 

• Occasional travel may be required 

Additional Requirements 

• Occasionally requires working weekends  
• Occasionally requires schedule flexibility 
• Occasionally requires extended hours to support launch and critical project timelines 

The salary range for this position is $122,300 to $143,800 for employees working onsite at our Alameda, CA headquarters. The range provided in this job posting represents the typical range or starting rate of candidates hired in California. Factors that maybe used to determine your actual salary may include your education, experience, knowledge, skills, ability and the market data for your work location, and a comparison to other employees already in the role.

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