Engineering Technician - Liquid Metals

About Zap Energy

Zap is advancing the next generation of nuclear power technology across fusion, fission and hybrid applications. Built on an integrated platform of high-energy-density physics and pulsed power, liquid metals and advanced materials, and compact, modular systems, Zap is building the foundational technologies needed to deploy the energy sources of the future.

About the Opportunity

Zap Energy is seeking a self-motivated Engineering Technician with expertise applicable to the assembly, operation, and maintenance of test equipment and its associated infrastructure. Working alongside Zap Energy's scientific and technical staff, you will contribute to high-temperature liquid metal flow loops, vessels, piping, pumps, heat exchangers, instrumentation, and data acquisition equipment. The ideal candidate is an inquisitive problem solver with a history of hands-on experience who takes pride in the quality of their work. Candidates do not need to meet every qualification — training will be provided. Those coming from welding, machining, or mechanic backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Fabrication & Installation: Assist in the design, fabrication, installation, troubleshooting, and repair of test infrastructure and equipment.
• Fluid Systems: Assemble and alter high-temperature fluid systems using tubing, piping, compression fittings, valves, insulation, and heaters. Install and remove heaters and insulation as needed.
• Instrumentation & Wiring: Install power and instrumentation wiring on test equipment components such as solid-state relays, variable frequency drives, flow meters, thermocouples, level sensors, pressure transducers, load cells, accelerometers, and data acquisition systems.
• Test Support: Work closely with engineers to safely support testing activities through the development of procedures, monitoring of test equipment, acquisition of data, and execution of design changes.
• Safety: Proactively assess the operating conditions of equipment to ensure the team's safety.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical/vocational training or associate degree preferred.
• At least 3 years of relevant experience working in an industrial, R&D, or laboratory environment, with familiarity in fluid systems desired. Demonstrated experience setting up, operating, and troubleshooting custom industrial equipment.
• Ability to use a multimeter to trace and diagnose electrical issues.
• Familiarity with general leak testing methods such as pressure decay tests, helium leak testing, hydrostatic tests, and bubble testing.
• Ability to read engineering drawings, such as piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Ability to use forklifts, rigging, and cranes to accomplish tasks. 
• Strong preference will be given to those with proficiency in metal fabrication equipment such as welders, tube benders, saws, and angle grinders, and to those with experience installing and interfacing with data acquisition and control (PLC) systems. 
• Candidates with prior industrial pipe GTAW (TIG) certification are encouraged to apply. 
• Candidates are not required to have all skills; training provided.

Personal Attributes and Skills

• Careful craftsmanship and attention to detail.
• Comfort with changing priorities and a dynamic, research-driven work environment.
• Positive attitude during repairs.
• Physical problem solver.
• Desire to collaborate and communicate results with a team.
• Inquisitive, question-asking, and a continuous learner.
• Proactive commitment to the safety of the team and equipment.

Employment may be conditioned upon the ability to obtain export authorization. Estimated pay range: $38-48 per hour . Candidates may be considered for other positions at Zap Energy and actual salary will be based on relevant education, experience, and other qualifications. Range is published in accordance with Washington Equal Pay and Opportunity Act.

Zap Energy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.