Mechanical Design Engineer

Summary

Join Oklo as a Mechanical Design Engineer to develop design solutions for advanced reactor technology. You will work on high-impact engineering challenges, designing structural components and mechanical systems for the reactor module. Responsibilities include concept generation, CAD modeling, analysis coordination, documentation, and ensuring designs meet performance and regulatory requirements. Collaboration with vendors and cross-functional teams is crucial. This role demands technical excellence and a collaborative mindset. The position requires a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, along with 4+ years of industry experience. Oklo offers competitive pay, benefits, and a flexible work environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline
• 4+ years of industry experience in mechanical or structural design within sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy, or industrial equipment
• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling software (e.g., Siemens NX, CATIA, SolidWorks), including part modeling, large assemblies, and detailed drawings
• Experience with CAD version control using PDM/PLM tools (e.g., SolidWorks PDM, Teamcenter, Windchill)
• Solid understanding of mechanical design principles, including DFM (Design for Manufacturability), DFA (Design for Assembly), and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Ability to interpret and produce engineering drawings that apply GD&T in line with ASME Y14.5 or similar standards
• Working knowledge of material selection (particularly metals), manufacturing methods, and fabrication techniques
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate on cross-functional teams, integrating feedback from analysis, manufacturing, and systems engineering
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly document and present engineering work

Responsibilities

• Develop and own the design of complex mechanical components and subsystems within the reactor module
• Collaborate cross-functionally with other engineering teams to define design and functional requirements, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and industry standards
• Use CAD tools to translate functional requirements into robust designs that meet structural, thermal, and integration constraints
• Conduct and participate in design reviews, providing and receiving technical feedback
• Rigorously evaluate mechanical designs to identify deficiencies and proactively propose and implement solutions
• Generate and maintain detailed 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and bills of materials using controlled processes in PDM/PLM systems
• Coordinate closely with analysis teams to guide and interpret thermal, structural, fatigue, and safety analyses in support of design validation
• Perform detailed manufacturability reviews, tolerance studies, and DFM/DFA assessments to prepare components for fabrication and assembly
• Create and maintain clear, well-written engineering documentation, including design rationales, functional requirements, reviews of historical designs, and detailed explanations of system architecture and performance
• Work closely with fabrication partners to refine designs for cost-effective and practical production
• Manage engagements with consultants and engineering firms to support high-fidelity analysis, ASME code compliance, and design maturity advancement
• Contribute to continuous improvement of Oklo’s mechanical design processes, tools, and standards through feedback and development of best practices

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing large structural weldments and mechanical joints
• Familiarity with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, particularly Sections III or VIII
• Background in designing components for high-integrity or safety-critical systems (e.g., nuclear, aerospace, defense, or heavy industry)
• Proven ability to lead hardware projects through the full development cycle—from concept and design to testing and production
• Comfortable working with external manufacturers and engineering consultants for fabrication and analysis support
• Knowledge of large scale fabrication techniques and transportation/handling of large components
• Understanding of thermal-mechanical analysis principles, with experience designing for high-temperature environments
• Basic knowledge of nuclear fission and radiation effects on materials and components
• Exposure to simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS) and scripting languages (e.g., Python) is a plus

Benefits

• Flexible time off
• Equity
• Competitive pay
• 401k
• Health insurance
• FSA
• Flexible work hours