HVAC Lead

- Regular/Permanent

- USA / Tennessee

- In Office

Welcome to Orano

Helping to meet current and future challenges to preserve our world and build the world of tomorrow while taking care of everyone's health is stimulating for you. For us too. By joining the Orano Group, a leading international player in the nuclear industry, you are in the right place.

Every day we work to produce efficient low-carbon energy, to fight global warming, to find solutions that save natural resources, and to contribute to progress in health.

Our strengths? Across the entire fuel cycle, we have extensive expertise in cutting-edge technologies, safe, high value-added products and services, and a strong capacity for innovation. All of these factors reflect the strong skills of our 17,000 employees, whom we are constantly striving to develop. With their different backgrounds and experience, they are proof of our openness to all talents. They share the same ambition: to give nuclear energy its full value.

Job description

Join Orano – Shaping a Sustainable Future Together

Step into a career-defining opportunity with Orano USA, a global leader in nuclear innovation, as we launch Project IKE—a cutting-edge uranium enrichment facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. As HVAC Lead, you’ll be at the forefront of building one of the most advanced clean energy infrastructures in the country.

This isn’t just another HVAC role. You’ll be leading the design, installation, and commissioning of complex climate control systems for a multi-billion-dollar facility that will power America’s energy independence. From precision cooling for high-tech centrifuge equipment to large-scale ventilation systems that meet rigorous nuclear standards, your expertise will shape the backbone of a transformative project.

If you’re ready to lead with purpose, solve big engineering challenges, and leave a legacy in sustainable energy—Project IKE is calling.

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead HVAC system design and analysis for uranium enrichment facilities, ensuring high-integrity, safety-critical performance.

- Serve as the technical authority on HVAC systems, providing mentorship to junior engineers and reviewing deliverables.

- Oversee and coordinate HVAC engineering work performed by the EPC contractor, ensuring compliance with design intent, nuclear safety standards, schedule, and quality requirements.

- Ensure all HVAC design and construction activities comply with applicable codes and standards (ASHRAE, SMACNA, NFPA, DOE/NRC requirements).

- Develop and approve design documentation including system flow diagrams, duct layouts, equipment specifications, load calculations, and control sequences.

- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (process, mechanical, electrical, and nuclear safety engineers) to integrate HVAC systems into facility design.

- Evaluate and approve vendor equipment specifications, submittals, and drawings for technical accuracy and regulatory compliance.

- Support safety and reliability assessments including ventilation performance, confinement integrity, and testing protocols.

- Conduct and oversee site visits, inspections, and commissioning activities for HVAC systems.

- Represent the organization in technical reviews, audits, and inspections with clients, regulators, and stakeholders.

- Contribute to project planning, cost estimating, scheduling, and risk mitigation strategies.

Our Full-Time Benefits

- Competitive compensation

- Health, Dental, and Vision insurance – with generous employer contributions

- 401(k) with employer matching and contribution amounts

- Life insurance and Short- and Long-Term Disability insurance provided by the company

- Generous Paid Time Off and holiday schedules

- Numerous Training and Development opportunities

- and more…

Ideal qualifications

All candidates must meet the following minimum requirements in order to be considered for this opportunity. Candidates who exceed minimum qualifications may be considered for a higher-level position.

Required Qualifications

- BS in Mechanical Engineering

- 3-7 years of engineering experience

- PE license preferred

- MS may substitute for 1-2 years of experience

Technical Skills & Knowledge

- Strong knowledge of HVAC design principles and standards

- Experience with nuclear HVAC requirements

- Proficiency in HVAC calculation software

- Understanding of building automation systems

- Experience with quality assurance requirements

- Knowledge of energy efficiency and sustainability practices

- Familiarity with project management principles

Orano is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic predisposition or carrier status or any other characteristic protected by law.