Senior Material Scientist

About the role

Zeno Power develops nuclear batteries that use the heat from radioisotopes to power critical missions on Earth, in space and at sea. It is seeking a Senior Material Scientist in Seattle to support the development and commercialization of Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) technologies. The role leads R&D on advanced materials, including metals and ceramics, and works in a startup environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead R&D efforts in developing and characterizing advanced materials, including metals and ceramics, and improving chemical products, processes and materials.
• Develop test requirements, plans, specifications and procedures for materials testing.
• Execute testing and materials analysis to determine chemical, physical and mechanical properties.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on material selection and qualification for heat source and power system designs.
• Direct and mentor technicians and other workers in testing and analysis techniques.
• Prepare solutions, compounds and reagents used in laboratory procedures.
• Write technical reports detailing methods and findings.
• Contribute to patent filings, technical publications and internal knowledge sharing.
• Support Zeno Power Systems' safety culture.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Chemistry, Physics or a related field.
• 5+ years of industry or research experience (Master's degree and 3+ years, or PhD and 1+ year).
• Ability to lead technical projects from concept to completion, work with minimal direction, meet deadlines and perform under pressure.
• In-office presence in Seattle (South Lake Union) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; remote work optional on Mondays and Fridays, with occasional lab work; travel less than 10%.
• Must be a U.S. person (citizen, national or lawful permanent resident).

Required skills

• Strong understanding of structure-property-processing relationships.
• Background in chemistry, material compatibility and mechanical testing.
• Ceramic material processes such as pelletization.
• Design of experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis.
• Materials characterization and analytical tools.
• Preferred: radiological effects on materials, familiarity with ASME, ASTM, ISO or MIL-STD standards, and material modeling/simulation.

What we offer

• Anticipated salary of $140,000 - $160,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Stock options, flexible paid time off and 16 weeks of paid family leave.
• 401k with employer match, employer HSA contributions and life insurance.
• Medical, dental and vision insurance, transit benefits, relocation assistance and professional development.
• Company-sponsored ClassPass benefit, employee recognition program and a dog-friendly office.