Become a Senior Materials Engineer with the NRC
Are you looking to advance your career in nuclear safety and engineering? The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is currently hiring for a Senior Materials Engineer to join their team in Rockville, Maryland. This role is a cornerstone of the agency’s mission to protect public health and safety through rigorous scientific research and regulatory oversight.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Materials Engineer, you will perform a wide range of analytical and management duties, including:
- Leading research on the chemical and physical degradation of nuclear materials.
- Developing technical criteria and regulatory guides for light water reactors.
- Evaluating contractor proposals and managing research projects to meet licensing needs.
- Coordinating technical presentations for the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards (ACRS).
- Conducting assessments of structural integrity and fracture mechanics.
Requirements
Candidates must meet the OPM qualification standards for the 0806 Engineering series. This typically includes a bachelor's degree in engineering or a combination of education and professional experience. You must also have one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level in the federal service or a comparable role in the private sector.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $169,279 – $197,200 |
| Grade Level | GG-15 |
| Location | Rockville, MD |
| Benefits | Comprehensive Health/Life/Retirement |
Application Tips
Your resume is the most important part of your application. Ensure it is concise, limited to 2 pages, and provides specific examples of your leadership in engineering projects. Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all necessary fields like hours-per-week and series/grade are captured correctly.
This position offers a unique chance to impact the future of nuclear safety standards. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to apply your materials engineering expertise to a vital federal mission, apply today via the official USAJOBS platform.
Why This Senior Materials Engineer Job Matters
Join the Nuclear Regulatory Commission as a Senior Materials Engineer and play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and structural integrity of our nation's nuclear infrastructure.
Senior Materials Engineer Job Overview
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is seeking a dedicated Senior Materials Engineer to join the Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research in Rockville, Maryland. This high-level position involves leading research into materials behavior, irradiation effects, and the structural integrity of components within licensed nuclear facilities. You will be instrumental in developing the regulatory frameworks and technical criteria that govern safe nuclear operations.
Requirements for Senior Materials Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship.
- One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (or equivalent).
- Must meet security and suitability background investigation requirements.
- Participation in mandatory drug testing.
- Completion of confidential financial disclosure reports.
- Must submit official or unofficial academic transcripts.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Materials Engineer
- Advanced technical expertise in nuclear plant component design, construction, and inspection.
- Proficiency in applying NRC regulations, regulatory guides, and industry codes to materials engineering.
- Proven ability to manage complex, multi-faceted engineering research projects.
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills for diverse audiences.
- Experience in fracture mechanics and structural integrity analysis for reactor systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance plans.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement savings).
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts for health and dependent care.
- ✓Generous annual and paid sick leave policies.
- ✓11 paid federal holidays per year.
- ✓Transit benefits.
- ✓Telework eligibility.
💡 How to Apply Senior Materials Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Materials Engineer Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement in detail.
- Prepare a concise, results-oriented resume (maximum 2 pages).
- Gather all required academic transcripts.
- Locate your most recent non-award SF-50 form.
- Complete the online application via the USAJOBS portal before the deadline.
- Submit responses to all mandatory vacancy questions.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included.
- Be specific about your hours worked per week to ensure your experience is credited correctly.
- Ensure your resume focus is on results and leadership rather than just duties.
- Check for any prohibited information (e.g., photos, SSN) before uploading.
- Apply well before the August 5, 2026 deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
Yes, relocation expenses may be authorized in accordance with agency policy.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this role is eligible for telework, subject to NRC agency policies.
What level of security clearance is required?
This position requires L Access Authorization and is classified as Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS) / Moderate Risk.
What documents must I include?
*A: You must include your resume, college transcripts, and your most recent non-award SF-50.*
Is there a deadline?
*A: Yes, all applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET on August 5, 2026.*
Job from Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is an independent federal agency tasked with the critical responsibility of overseeing the safe use of nuclear materials. From power generation to medical and industrial applications, the NRC ensures that radiation safety standards are met and environmental integrity is maintained. Employees at the NRC enjoy a collaborative culture focused on work-life balance, continuous learning, and professional development.