Chemical Engineer (Thorium Metallurgy & Chemistry)

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionBenefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Chemical Engineer (Thorium Metallurgy & Chemistry)

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 merges the agility of a startup with the ambition of a global energy leader. Joining us means becoming part of a bold mission to revolutionize how the world generates and delivers power through advanced thorium fuel chemistry, nuclear metallurgy, and next- materials science.

Position Overview

AMPERA is seeking a Chemical Engineer with deep expertise in thorium metallurgy, fuel chemistry, and chemical process engineering to lead the development of AMPERAs thorium-based fuel cycle. This role will focus on the synthesis, purification, and metallurgical processing of thorium and associated fuel compounds for use in hybrid fission-fusion micro-reactors.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in molten salt chemistry, actinide metallurgy, fuel reprocessing, and high-temperature chemical systems, as well as familiarity with nuclear-grade material qualification and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead thorium and actinide chemistry R&D, including oxide reduction, alloy formation, and purification processes.
• Develop and optimize metallurgical processes for thorium-based fuels and structural materials under inert and reducing atmospheres.
• Design and operate experimental setups involving high-temperature furnaces, glove boxes, and corrosion-resistant systems.
• Characterize chemical and physical properties of thorium compounds (e.g., ThO, ThF, Th-U alloys) using analytical and spectroscopic methods.
• Collaborate with fuel development and materials teams to integrate thorium fuels with TRISO and LMJ-based fabrication systems.
• Perform thermodynamic and kinetic modeling to support process scale-up and reactor integration.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and radiological safety standards (DOE, NRC, EPA).
• Document and present research results, contributing to fuel qualification and licensing efforts.
• Mentor junior engineers and support cross-functional collaboration between chemical, materials, and reactor teams.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or Nuclear Chemistry.
• 7+ years of experience in thorium or actinide chemistry, nuclear materials processing, or metallurgical R&D.
• Strong knowledge of high-temperature thermochemistry, reduction processes, and alloy formation.
• Experience with molten salt systems, fuel reprocessing, or metal refining .
• Familiarity with radiation safety protocols, glove box handling, and contamination control.
• Excellent analytical, documentation, and problem-solving skills.
• U.S. citizenship or eligibility for security clearance may be required.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits including healthcare, dental, vision, and 401(k).
• Opportunity to advance thorium-based nuclear fuel innovation for the next of clean energy systems.
• A collaborative, mission-driven environment where chemistry and engineering drive real-world impact.
• Career growth potential as AMPERA expands its thorium fuel and materials programs.