Senior Mechanical Engineer

Hexium is modernizing Atomic Vapor Laser Isotope Separation (AVLIS), a laser-based isotope enrichment technology originally developed and demonstrated at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). We are advancing AVLIS into a scalable, industrial-grade enrichment platform designed to strengthen domestic energy infrastructure, industrial resilience, and national security.

Role

We're hiring a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the translation of decades of AVLIS research and development into modern, manufacturable hardware. Initially based on-site at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in Livermore, CA, you'll work through legacy technical records to identify the most relevant mechanical designs, reconstruct them as modern 3D assemblies, and identify gaps requiring further engineering. You'll collaborate with national laboratory scientists and engineers as needed to resolve technical questions and inform the modernized design.

From there, you'll advance designs through simulation, prototype hardware, and test fixtures, while serving as a mechanical design authority for Hexium's initial prototype and pilot systems. This is foundational engineering work that will bridge national laboratory R&D with the systems needed to advance AVLIS toward commercial application.

As the program progresses, this role will transition to a Hexium production facility and will require relocation.

Key Responsibilities

Review and assess legacy AVLIS mechanical designs and technical records at a DOE national laboratory, working within required classified-handling procedures

Own mechanical design of chamber and vacuum systems, including all system interfaces

Apply vacuum system design to materials compatibility selection, outgassing mitigation, and contamination control

Convert legacy designs into modern 3D CAD assemblies and validate them via thermal/structural simulation

Work directly with national laboratory scientists and engineers to close technical design gaps

Collaborate with Hexium's Integration Team on prototype procurement and testing requirements

Qualify vacuum suppliers and custom equipment fabricators

Define facility and utility interface requirements for prototype and pilot systems

Partner with Nuclear Safety on design compliance

Required Qualifications

5+ years of mechanical engineering experience, including vacuum system design and/or precision mechanical hardware

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field

Proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, Creo, or similar)

Must currently hold an active DOE Q clearance or active DOD Top Secret clearance, or have held DOE Q / DOD Top Secret clearance within the past 18 months

Must be a U.S. Person (required for access to export-controlled technical data)

Willingness to work on-site full-time at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory initially, with required relocation to Hexium's production facility (location not yet determined) as the program progresses

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with specialty alloys and refractory metal fabrication

Experience with high-temperature vacuum processes

FEA/thermal simulation experience

Background in safety-critical hardware (aerospace, nuclear, defense)

Physical Requirements

Extended periods reviewing physical archival documents and fine-detail technical drawings, requiring sustained close visual focus

Fine motor skills and dexterity for precision component assembly and inspection

Ability to work in confined spaces around vacuum hardware

Occasional lifting up to 50 lbs

Extended periods standing/moving within a lab environment

Work Environment

On-site at a DOE national laboratory in Livermore, CA, with standard site security and classified-handling protocols. Role will transition to a separate Hexium production facility as the program scales.

Benefits

Stock Options

Paid Time Off

401(k) Matching

Medical, Dental, Vision insurance

HSA & FSAs

E-Verify: Hexium Inc. participates in E-Verify. All new hires are required to complete the I-9 employment eligibility verification form and provide documentation to confirm their identity and authorization to work in the United States.

Screening : Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.

Hexium Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Hexium Inc. is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities upon request. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact Hexium’s Human Resources at [email protected] .