Standard Nuclear is fueling America’s nuclear renaissance at industrial scale. Our mission is to deliver the essential building blocks of nuclear power—enabling cost-effective, safe, and secure energy for the world.
The Mechanical Operator will support Standard Nuclear’s production operations by operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting mechanical processing equipment used in the manufacture of advanced ceramic and particulate materials. This is a hands-on role involving high-temperature equipment, mechanical fixtures, gas-flow systems, compaction tools, heat-treatment units, and various mechanical assemblies.
Operators in this role will be cross-trained across multiple processing areas and will support operations at Standard Nuclear’s Oak Ridge facilities as production needs evolve. Candidates do not need prior experience with specialized equipment—strong mechanical aptitude and experience in industrial or manufacturing environments is sufficient.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Equipment Operation
- Operate mechanical processing systems including high-temperature units, gas-controlled reactors, compaction equipment, and mechanical handling systems.
- Adjust equipment parameters such as temperature, pressure, gas flow, timing, and mechanical settings according to defined procedures.
- Load, inspect, and maintain mechanical fixtures, tooling, and material batches.
- Monitor equipment performance and respond to alarms, process deviations, or abnormal conditions.
Mechanical Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and basic repairs on mechanical equipment and fixtures.
- Replace wear components, adjust mechanical assemblies, and assist with equipment setup and changeovers.
- Identify operational issues and coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams for resolution.
Process Execution & Documentation
- Follow detailed work instructions for operating, adjusting, and monitoring mechanical systems.
- Record process data, measurements, and equipment readings accurately in production logs.
- Support process optimization by providing feedback on equipment behavior and workflow improvements.
Safety, Quality & Compliance
- Follow all Standard Nuclear environmental, health, and safety (EH&S) requirements, including use of PPE and safe handling of high-temperature and mechanical equipment.
- Adhere to quality assurance procedures and report nonconformances or equipment concerns promptly.
- Support audits, inspections, and operational readiness activities.
Cross-Training & Production Support
- Train across multiple mechanical systems to provide operational flexibility across manufacturing areas.
- Work across Standard Nuclear’s Oak Ridge production locations as needed to support manufacturing demands.
- Collaborate with engineering, operations, and quality teams to meet production schedules and resolve mechanical or process challenges.
PREFERED QUALIFICATIONS
(No degree required — candidates with strong mechanical or industrial backgrounds are encouraged to apply.)
Minimum Requirements
- 3+ years of experience as a mechanical technician, industrial operator, manufacturing technician, or similar hands-on role.
- Ability to operate, adjust, and troubleshoot mechanical equipment, tools, and fixtures.
- Comfort working with high-temperature systems, gas-flow equipment, and mechanical assemblies.
- Ability to follow detailed procedures and record accurate data.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs., work at heights, and work in environments involving heat, noise, or odors.
- Ability to work in controlled or restricted-access areas with required PPE.
Preferred Experience (Not Required)
- Experience with high-temperature furnaces, heat-treatment systems, compaction tools, or pneumatic/mechanical equipment.
- Exposure to industrial processing, maintenance, or materials-handling environments.
- Experience with equipment start-up, commissioning, or process scale-up.
- Familiarity with regulated or quality-controlled environments (NQA-1, ISO, etc.).
- Strong mechanical troubleshooting skills or hands-on mechanical background.
BENEFITS
- Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Health Savings Account
- Disability and Life Insurance
- 401K Plan
- Paid Time Off, Holidays
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This role is based in Oak Ridge, TN and involves a mix of manufacturing and operations as well as interaction with office-based work.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Work is performed in chemical processing and industrial manufacturing areas.
- PPE such as gloves, safety glasses, and respirators may be required.
- Some work occurs in controlled or restricted-access environments involving powders and chemical solutions.
Standard Nuclear embraces equal opportunity and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.