Advance Your Career as a Materials Engineer with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) plays a foundational role in the security and prosperity of the United States. By overseeing the peaceful use of nuclear materials in medicine, industry, and energy production, the NRC ensures that the highest safety standards are maintained. We are currently looking for a skilled Materials Engineer to join our team in Rockville, Maryland, and contribute to the next generation of nuclear safety.
Job Responsibilities
As a Materials Engineer, you will serve as a technical authority within the Office of Advanced Reactors. Your duties will include:
- Evaluating applicant and licensee implementation of complex regulatory requirements.
- Reviewing safety evaluation reports for construction, operating, and design certification applications.
- Applying risk-informed and performance-based principles to technical problem-solving.
- Providing expert guidance to agency leadership and internal stakeholders regarding metallurgical engineering issues.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet several key criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. citizen |
| Education | ABET-accredited degree in Engineering or P.E. License |
| Experience | At least 1 year of specialized experience at the lower grade level |
| Background | Must pass drug testing and security investigation |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $143,913 to $187,093 per year, commensurate with your qualifications and experience.
Benefits
Employees of the NRC receive comprehensive federal benefits, including robust health/life insurance, a retirement savings plan (Thrift Savings Plan), paid time off, and transit benefits.
Application Tips
Your resume is the most critical document in your application package. Ensure it is concise, strictly limited to two pages, and details specific technical results. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to guarantee that all required metrics (like hours worked per week and grade level) are included.
Join a mission that impacts the entire nation. If you have the technical expertise and the drive to protect the public through excellence in engineering, we encourage you to apply for this Materials Engineer position today.
Why This Materials Engineer Job Matters
Shape the future of nuclear safety in the United States by joining the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s elite team of materials engineers.
Materials Engineer Job Overview
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is seeking a dedicated Materials Engineer to join the Office of Advanced Reactors in Rockville, Maryland. In this pivotal role, you will perform technical reviews of safety, design, and operational compliance, ensuring that nuclear facilities adhere to the highest regulatory standards. You will work within a highly collaborative environment to address complex metallurgical challenges, supporting generic licensing actions and providing expert advice to agency leadership.
Requirements for Materials Engineer
- U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
- Completion of a 1-2 year trial period.
- Must be able to successfully undergo and maintain a security and suitability background investigation.
- Mandatory pre-appointment drug testing.
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level in Federal service or equivalent private sector experience.
- Possession of a Bachelor's degree or higher in an engineering discipline (mechanical, metallurgical, materials, nuclear, structural, or chemical) from an ABET-accredited institution, or current Professional Engineer (P.E.) registration.
- Submission of official or unofficial college transcripts.
Preferred Qualifications for Materials Engineer
- Demonstrated expertise in the design, maintenance, and inspection of nuclear facilities.
- Proven history of leading or contributing to complex, highly technical research projects.
- Exceptional ability to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders on materials engineering issues.
- Advanced communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical data into clear documentation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance plans.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401(k) equivalent) with retirement savings.
- ✓Paid annual vacation and sick leave.
- ✓11 paid federal holidays per year.
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts for health and dependent care.
- ✓Transit and commuter benefits.
- ✓Situational telework opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Materials Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Materials Engineer Job
- Create a profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Review the full vacancy announcement in detail.
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) emphasizing specialized results and specific technical achievements.
- Gather and upload official/unofficial transcripts and relevant eligibility documents (SF-50, DD-214, etc.).
- Complete the online application questionnaire and submit all materials by the closing date.
- Monitor application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required federal employment information is captured.
- Be explicit in your resume regarding your specialized experience; the agency will not make assumptions.
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week and specific dates for all previous roles.
- Do not include personal photos or sensitive data like social security numbers on your resume.
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 p.m. ET deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for remote work?
The position is not remote-eligible but may be eligible for situational telework according to NRC policy.
What level of security clearance is required?
This position requires an L Access Authorization.
What is the application deadline?
The closing date is November 5, 2026.
Can I apply if I have foreign education?
Yes, provided you include documentation confirming that your degree is equivalent to a U.S. program from an accredited institution.
Job from Nuclear Regulatory Commission
The NRC is an independent federal agency tasked with protecting public health and the environment. Our professionals come from a diverse array of backgrounds, including the military, academia, and private industry. We pride ourselves on cultivating a culture of innovation, rigorous technical standards, and work-life balance.