Vacuum Systems Engineer

ClearanceJobs, on behalf of our client, is seeking a Vacuum Systems Engineer for a full-time position onsite in Oak Ridge, TN. Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and optimize vacuum systems including chambers, piping, and gas handling subsystems for UF6 service.Select and specify vacuum pumps (dry pumps, Roots blowers, turbomolecular, hybrid trains) based on performance and chemical compatibility.Develop and maintain P&IDs and system specifications.Model gas flow, conductance, and pressure profiles using ChemCad, Aspen Plus, or similar tools.Design and integrate cold traps and cryogenic traps for UF6 capture and recovery.Define materials of construction (metals, seals, coatings) to mitigate corrosion and HF formation.Specify and integrate instrumentation (pressure gauges, temperature sensors) for vacuum and cryogenic systems.Establish pump-down, purge, and passivation procedures to prevent contamination and moisture ingress.Partner with vendors; maintain strong knowledge of UF6-compatible vacuum equipment suppliers. Lead vacuum component procurement, supplier qualification, and vendor management for critical systems.Support installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and performance validationEnsure compliance with nuclear and safety requirements, including coordination with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission as well as ISO vacuum standards.Education, Qualifications & Required SkillsRequiredM.S. or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.7+ years of experience with vacuum pumps/systems in corrosive or high-purity environments.Expertise in vacuum pump technologies and system design.Proficiency with ChemCad, Aspen Plus, or equivalent simulation tools.Strong understanding of vacuum conductance, gas dynamics, and transient behavior.Experience with P&IDs, vacuum hardware, and trapping systems.Demonstrated vendor knowledge and equipment selection experience.Ability to translate simulation into real-world system performance.Strong judgment in vacuum pump selection in either corrosive or non-corrosive environments.Detail-oriented approach to safety-critical design.Effective collaboration with vendors, regulators, and cross-functional teams.PreferredExperience with UF6, fluorinated gases, or nuclear fuel cycle systems.Familiarity with laser isotope separation technologies.Knowledge of fluorine/HF materials compatibility and corrosion control.Experience with HAZOP, FMEA, or similar safety methodologies.Background in UHV or semiconductor-grade vacuum systems.Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Created: 2026-05-08