The project:
Terra Innovatum's mission is to make nuclear power accessible. We deliver simple and safe micro-reactor solutions that are scalable, affordable and deployable anywhere 1 Mwe at a time.
You will be joining a fast-growing scaleup developing SOLO – a micro modular reactor – able to provide clean energy and radioisotopes where it is needed. You will be supporting the reactor licensing process in the US at first.
You will support the founding team to scaleup to a leading tech company supplying much needed energy solutions globally.
This is a unique opportunity to join a high performance team developing a global energy solutions leader.
What you will be working on
Terra Innovatum Mechanical Systems Designer will be:
* responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing mechanical systems and components used in nuclear power plants, research reactors, and other nuclear applications
* creating detailed technical drawings, collaborating with engineers and regulatory agencies, and ensuring designs comply with nuclear safety, performance, and regulatory standards
* using CAD software to develop 2D and 3D models, perform mechanical analyses, and support prototype development and testing
Potential next steps
As the company is growing fast and plans international expansion in 2026, the right candidate will be considered for regional and/or global responsibility.
What you will be in charge off:
* Designing and developing mechanical systems, components, and assemblies for nuclear reactor applications, including piping, heat exchangers, pressure vessels, and cooling systems.
* Creating and modifying detailed 2D and 3D CAD drawings using software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CREO.
* Collaborating with nuclear engineers, project managers, and regulatory agencies to ensure design feasibility, safety, and compliance.
* Performing material selection, stress analysis, and thermal analysis to optimize mechanical system performance under high-radiation and high-temperature conditions.
* Ensuring all designs adhere to industry regulations and codes, including ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC), NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission) guidelines, and ANSI standards.
* Engineering activities related to design and analysis of mechanical loads on systems and components including pressure vessels
* Assisting in prototype development, testing, and troubleshooting of nuclear mechanical systems.
* Preparing technical documentation, including design specifications, engineering reports, and bills of materials (BOM).
* Revising designs based on testing results, manufacturing feedback, and regulatory requirements.
* Maintaining organized design files and version control for nuclear components and systems.
* Supporting the product lifecycle management (PLM) process, including design updates and safety improvements.
Who we want to work with:
* Education: Master degree in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field.
* Experience: 2-5 years of experience in mechanical design for nuclear applications, power plants, or industrial settings
* Certifications (Preferred): CSWP (Certified SolidWorks Professional), AutoCAD Certification, or equivalent industry certifications.
* Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CREO).
* Knowledge of mechanical design principles, material properties, and manufacturing processes specific to nuclear applications.
* Understanding of nuclear reactor components, cooling systems, and radiation shielding.
* Familiarity with ASME BPVC, NRC regulations, and ANSI standards for nuclear mechanical design.
* Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) is a must and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for nuclear applications is a plus.
* Tribology, Seals, Welding experience
* Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
* Effective communication and teamwork skills for collaborating with engineers and regulatory bodies.
* Attention to detail and a strong commitment to quality, accuracy, and nuclear safety.
* Ability to manage multiple projects and meet regulatory deadlines.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
Preferred:
* PhD degree
* IPO experience
* Written and oral fluency in Italian
* Ability to build relationships and influence at all levels of the organization