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Design Specialist

Hanford Tank Waste Operations & Closure (H2C)
Richland, WA Full Time
POSTED ON 5/28/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/26/2026

Job Responsibilities/Duties

H2C is seeking a Designer Specialist to join its Design Services Support organization. In this role, you will work collaboratively with Design Engineers to plan, schedule, execute, and coordinate detailed project phases related to design work. Key responsibilities include supporting the development of man-hour estimates and schedules, ensuring designs are prepared with a focus on quality, compliance, and adherence to requirements and procedures, and meeting both schedule and budget objectives. You will also coordinate with personnel from other departments, project managers, and clients to review designs and resolve concerns.

The Designer Specialist will conduct field walkdowns and inspections, gather measurements, and prepare accurate field sketches and notes. Effective problem-solving skills are essential, as you will be expected to address and resolve issues promptly.


H2C welcomes candidates with design experience in any discipline—Electrical, Instrumentation & Controls, Mechanical & Piping, or Civil and Structural. While specialists from all disciplines are encouraged to apply, preference will be given to candidates who can operate across multiple disciplines as needed to support the team and project requirements.


Success in this position requires strong situational assessment capabilities, sound judgement in determining optimal solutions, resource identification, and effective direction and follow-through in alignment with applicable policies and procedures. Additionally, the ability to deliver innovative solutions and a commitment to continuous improvement are crucial, especially in the fast-paced, time-sensitive environment of tank farm facilities.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Create designs for engineering systems, structures, plant arrangements, and equipment with minimal supervision.
  • Prepare and revise complex designs for Structures, Systems, and Components (SSC).
  • Develop and maintain drafting standards in accordance with site requirements.
  • Plan and coordinate detailed CAD work.
  • Generate and review design change forms; resolve existing design discrepancies using cost-effective approaches.
  • Initiate design modifications and coordinate approvals with subcontractors or responsible parties.
  • Prepare fabrication and construction specifications and details.
  • Perform field walkdowns to assess as-found conditions and resolve design/installation issues.
  • Demonstrate expert capability in 2D and/or 3D design using CAD tools.
  • Prepare plant layouts and study drawings for construction.
  • Ensure design consistency with technical requirements and project scope.
  • Participate in and help lead technical issue resolution; conduct investigations and prepare technical reports with recommended actions.
  • Provide technical guidance to less experienced design staff as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


Required Qualifications

Grade 19:

  • AA/AAS degree in related field and 12 years of related experience as a Designer, or equivalent combination of education and/or experience; 2 years of related experience must be in the nuclear industry.


Grade 20:

  • AA/AAS degree in related field and 14 years of related experience as a Designer, or equivalent combination of education and/or experience; 2 years of related experience must be in the nuclear industry.
  • Note the essential duties for this grade level are like that of the previous grade level, however the scope of responsibility is larger, and the expected level of performance is increased.


Desired Qualifications

  • Working Knowledge of Autodesk AutoCAD.
  • Working knowledge of Autodesk Inventor and/or SolidWorks 3D CAD.
  • Working knowledge of Autodesk Civil 3D.
  • Working knowledge of Autodesk Revit.
  • Experience working with point cloud data.
  • Experience in design drafting within any discipline-Electrical, Instrumentation and Controls, Mechanical and Piping, and/or Civil and Structural, particularly as it relates to facility modifications and support.
  • Familiarity with drafting and designing electrical equipment, electrical diagrams and schedules; mechanical equipment and piping systems; pipe supports; structural and civil components; as well as preparing plot plans, floor plans, sections, and detailed drawings is preferred.
  • Experience incorporating change notices and as-building drawings.
  • Familiarity with construction practices and issues specific to operating nuclear facilities.


Compensation & Benefits

In accordance with the company's philosophy on compensation for exempt and salaried non-exempt employees, H2C takes into consideration a variety of factors when determining initial grade and salary to include assigned job scope and responsibility, a candidate's qualifications as compared to internal comparators performing in a similar role, and the external labor market. A salary offer will be made at the appropriate grade level and within the targeted hiring range posted according to these factors. Note a candidate's prior salary history will not be taken into consideration.


Hiring Range Minimum: $119,813

Hiring Range Maximum: $166,263


H2C offers a comprehensive benefits package to include medical/dental/vision, short-and long-term disability, life insurance, 401(k) with employer match, and paid time off. For a full list of benefits please visit https://hmis.hanford.gov/hr/page.cfm/HEWTBenefits


Depending on the nature of your employment with H2C, you can expect the following:

- A business casual dress work environment: jeans are permissible (restrictions may apply).

- Opportunity for work/life balance: a standard 4 x 10 work schedule, allowing more personal time to enjoy life outside of the office (other schedules and/or shift work may be required).

Note: employment at H2C involves working in the office or in the field depending on the role.


Relocation Funding Provided - Yes

U.S. Citizenship Required - Yes

Clearance Required - No

Job Classification - Exempt

Shift Work Required - No

Salary : $119,813 - $166,263

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