Principal Engineer, Power Generation System

Position Overview

• Location Type: Not Specified
• Employment Type: Not Specified
• Job Type: Principal Engineer
• Salary: Not Specified

This role involves leading the development of the KP-FHR Power Generation System (PGS), including steam cycles and associated equipment, to enable the rapid development and integration of KP-FHR PGS Structures, Systems and Components (SSCs).

Company Information

Kairos Power is a new nuclear energy technology and engineering company whose mission is to enable the world’s transition to clean energy, with the ultimate goal to dramatically improve people’s quality of life while protecting the environment. This goal will be accomplished through the commercialization of the fluoride-salt-cooled, high-temperature reactor (FHR) that can be deployed with robust safety, affordable costs, and flexible operation to accommodate the expansion of variable renewables.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Principal Engineer to lead the development of the KP-FHR Power Generation System (PGS), including steam cycles and associated equipment. Reporting to the Director of Power Generation Systems, you will develop technical design solutions to enable the rapid development and integration of KP-FHR PGS Structures, Systems and Components (SSCs). This role requires a visionary leader with extensive experience in thermal systems and power conversion technologies to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation of the plant's energy conversion processes.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop the PGS, focusing on steam cycle, turbine, condenser, and related auxiliary systems options that meet Kairos Power’s FHR deployment objectives.
• Lead design trades, performance analyses and optimization of the steam cycle to maximize efficiency and output.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate the PGS with overall plant design and operations.
• Manage and coordinate external partners, suppliers, regulators and vendors in the area of power generation.
• Oversee the preparation of technical specifications, design documents, and system drawings for all PGS components.
• Perform feasibility studies and risk assessments related to power conversion technologies and systems.
• Mentor and guide engineering team, promoting professional growth and innovation in power conversion solutions.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders, ensuring clear communication of technical concepts and strategies.
• Support commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting of the PGS during the plant’s startup phase.
• Stay abreast of industry advancements, best practices, and emerging technologies in power conversion and nuclear energy.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Education: M.S. or Ph.D. degree in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Experience: 15+ years of experience in the design and development of power conversion systems, particularly in the nuclear or thermal power sectors
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer principles as they relate to steam cycles
• Skills: Demonstrated experience in managing complex engineering projects and leading technical teams, with thorough understanding of evaluation, design, and licensing of a new technology
• Regulatory: Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards for nuclear power systems