Experimental Engineer

Villigen (PSI)
Target Unit /
Full time /
On-site
Summary
Join us as an Experimental Engineer and apply your expertise to develop innovative solutions that meet the challenges of advanced nuclear technologies.
 
About us
Transmutex is a Geneva-based start-up founded in 2019. We aim at reinventing nuclear energy by designing START to optimize the transmutation of long-lived nuclear waste. The innovative combination of particle accelerators and fuel, based on existing long-lived radioactive waste, will let us develop energy process that will be intrinsically safe, will reduce the stockpile of long-lived waste, is resistant to proliferation, and will be cost competitive.
 
About the Role
We are looking for an Experimental Engineer to support the creation and operation of a new research laboratory. The role involves both hands-on laboratory work and the coordination of activities related to the installation and use of experimental facilities. The successful candidate will contribute to the set-up of laboratory infrastructure and equipment, take part in the execution of experiments, and support the characterization of materials exposed to demanding environments. The position combines practical experimental work, technical problem-solving, and organizational responsibilities. It offers the opportunity to work closely with researchers, facility providers, and external partners in building and running a laboratory that enables high-quality studies of materials performance.
 
Main Responsibilities
 - Participate in the design, installation, and commissioning of laboratory equipment and infrastructure.
 - Perform experimental work in the laboratory, including preparation, execution, and monitoring of tests.
 - Support the characterization of materials after testing, using standard laboratory techniques and analysis methods.
 - Develop and maintain operating procedures, safety protocols, and maintenance schedules.
 - Coordinate laboratory logistics, consumables, and day-to-day operations.
 - Act as an interface with hosting institutions, safety services, and external suppliers.
 - Contribute to reporting and documentation of experimental activities and results.

Qualifications and Professional achievements
 - Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
 - Proven experience with experimental laboratory work (set-up, operation, or maintenance of test systems) with liquid metals.
 - Familiarity with materials testing and characterization methods.
 - Good knowledge of laboratory safety practices and standards.
 - Good organizational and communication skills.
 - Proficiency in German required (spoken and written).
 
Additionally, it will be an advantage if you have: 
 - Familiarity with fast reactors, Accelerator Driven System (ADS) technologies, or nuclear structural materials.
 - Experience with liquid metal thermal-hydraulics systems
 - Solid knowledge of material behaviour under extreme environments, such as irradiation and liquid metal exposure.
 - Hands-on experience with advanced characterization techniques (e.g., SEM, TEM, mechanical testing) and post-irradiation examination (PIE).
  
Terms And Conditions
Start date:          As soon as possible
Location:            Villigen, AG, Switzerland - with required short-term stays at Transmutex headquarters in Geneva.
Contract:            Full-time, permanent employment contract
Package:             We offer competitive remuneration and social security, accident/disability insurance and pension plans; one day per week work from home, as well as five weeks paid vacation.
 
Recruitment process:
One to two technical interview.s with the Hiring manager and other Transmutex team members; Interview with HR for retained candidates, final interview with Management for shortlisted candidates.