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.

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.

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. , 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.

QUALIFICATIONS

(No degree required — candidates with strong mechanical or industrial backgrounds are encouraged to apply.) Minimum