MELE Associates is looking for an exceptional candidate to fill a part-time (consultant) Metal Matrix Composites (MMC) Expert with a specialization in fuel fabrication to support an Independent Technical Review.  The SME will provide technical insights, assessments, and recommendations related to metal matrix composite applications in advanced nuclear fuel fabrication processes.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Provide expert analysis and recommendations on the use of metal matrix composites in nuclear fuel fabrication. Evaluate existing fuel fabrication techniques and identify potential areas for improvement. Review and assess technical reports, research findings, and industry best practices related to MMC and nuclear fuel production. Participate in ITRP meetings, offering guidance on material selection, processing techniques, and performance evaluation. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to assess the feasibility, safety, and performance of MMC-based fuel applications. Contribute to technical reports, white papers, and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Materials Science, Nuclear Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 10 years of experience in metal matrix composites and/or nuclear fuel fabrication. Extensive knowledge of MMC processing methods, including powder metallurgy, casting, and additive manufacturing. Familiarity with regulatory and safety requirements in nuclear fuel development. Experience supporting independent technical reviews, advisory boards, or similar expert panels is highly desirable. Strong analytical, communication, and technical writing skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Prior experience working with national laboratories, DOE programs, or nuclear fuel vendors. Knowledge of irradiation effects on MMC materials. Experience with mechanical and thermal performance testing of MMC fuel components.

LOCATION: Remote with occasional travel.

SALARY: Salaries are determined based on several factors including external market data, internal equity, and the candidate’s related knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position.

BENEFITS

Employer Paid, High Quality Employee Medical, Dental & Vision Care Low-Cost Family Health Care offered 11 Federal Holidays and 3 weeks’ vacation 401k with Generous Employer Match Cross-training opportunities

About MELE

With over 300 employees and offices in Rockville, MD, Washington, DC, and Albuquerque, NM, MELE is a veteran and minority-owned government contractor empowering its customers with innovative solutions for more than three decades. MELE has team members located across the U.S. and has served more than a hundred countries across hundreds of project locations. The company offers technical, engineering, and programmatic support expertise to a host of U.S. federal and international agencies, including, but not limited to, the Department of Energy, the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, INTERPOL, and the International Atomic Energy Agency. MELE’s services include National Security and Intelligence, CBRNE Defense and Security, Facility Management and Engineering, Law Enforcement and Emergency Response Training, Technical, Analytica, and Program Management Support, and IT/Cybersecurity.

MELE Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. MELE Associates, Inc. is an E-Verify