Demo

ATR Systems Mechanic - 1st Class

Idaho National Laboratory
Idaho National Laboratory Salary
Idaho, ID Full Time
POSTED ON 8/2/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 9/2/2026
Job Description

The Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at Idaho National Laboratory is one of the most unique and consequential facilities in the world. As the nation's most powerful research reactor, ATR drives breakthroughs in nuclear fuel development, materials science, and national security—work that directly shapes America's energy independence and defense capability.

The systems that keep ATR operating do not maintain themselves. That is where you come in.

As a Systems Mechanic, you are not just keeping equipment running, you are keeping the mission running. Your hands-on expertise supports research that influences U.S. energy policy, nuclear deterrence, and the future of clean power. This is skilled trades work with national significance.

You will perform a broad range of mechanical maintenance activities throughout the ATR Complex, working on systems that demand precision, experience, and a thorough understanding of industrial equipment.

Essential Job Functions And Responsibilities

  • Perform corrective and preventive maintenance on industrial mechanical systems throughout the ATR Complex.
  • Maintain and repair small motors and the mechanical operations of airflow valves and controllers.
  • Maintain diesel fire pumps, including fluid changes, belt replacements, and major component repairs.
  • Maintain overhead cranes and a variety of pumps and compressors.
  • Utilize thermal sensing and vibration analysis equipment.
  • Read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and system prints to guide maintenance and repair work.
  • Participate in work planning, material identification, man-hour estimating, and procurement coordination.
  • Perform leadman functions as required, including directing work, coordinating crews, and maintaining job-site standards.
  • Provide on-the-job training and mentorship to developing craftsmen.
  • Actively participate in company safety programs, including VPP, ALARA, and EST.
  • Complete the ATR Mechanic Qualification Card and all other required training.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Knowledge of basic mechanical and operational theory.
  • Knowledge of tools, equipment, and electrical hazards associated with the mechanical trade.
  • Knowledge of material incompatibility, suspect materials, and fasteners.
  • Knowledge of work control requirements.
  • Knowledge of general Safety and personal protective equipment requirements.
  • Knowledge of and compliance with Industrial Safety Requirements. NFPA, 70E, Part III, First Aid/CPR,
  • Lockout/Tagout, Portable Ladders, Electrical Energy Awareness, PPE, Safe Work Permit, Working in
  • Hazardous Temperatures Hot/Cold
  • Knowledge of hazardous material supplies and disposal of waste streams.
  • Ability to read and interpret drawings, schematics, and other technical documents.
  • Ability to use the tools of the trade (drill press, hand tools, bench grinder, metal lathe, mag-bas drill, metal break, sheet metal nibbler, deburring and belt sander, laser alignment tools, precision instruments, power saws, (band, reciprocating, jig, chop)).
  • Ability to troubleshoot and install mechanical systems.
  • Ability to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain mechanical systems and components.
  • Ability to work extended periods of time in Radiological work areas including the required PPE (Respiratory Protection Etc.).

Required Qualifications

  • High School diploma or equivalent and 5 years years applicable experience, a two-year Vocational training plus three 3 years applicable experience, or the c ompletion of a recognized trade apprenticeship and 2 years of applicable experience.
  • Demonstrated senior-level proficiency across a broad range of mechanical systems.
  • Hands-on experience with small motor repair, diesel-driven equipment, and facility mechanical systems.
  • Proficiency with a full range of shop fabrication tools and equipment.
  • Ability to read and interpret drawings, schematics, and technical documentation.
  • Working knowledge of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), PPE requirements, and industrial safety standards, including NFPA 70E and First Aid/CPR.
  • Journeyman license may be required depending on scope of work.
  • Ability to obtain Radiological Worker Qualification within 45 days of hire.
  • Valid state driver's license.
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DOE "L" level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.

Required Certifications

  • Radiological Worker II (Rad Worker II): Required for work in radiological areas throughout the ATR Complex.
  • Respirator Qualification: Required for work in areas with potential airborne hazards.
  • Overhead Crane Inspector: Required for inspection and oversight of crane operations.

ATR Qualification Requirements

  • Employees must complete and maintain the ATR Certification Qualification Card, a comprehensive set of facility-specific and position-specific qualifications tied directly to this role. Full qualification requirements will be discussed during the hiring process.

Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, climb ladders, work at heights, and in confined spaces. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Working Conditions

The work environment includes an office, buildings, and a field environment. The field environment may include exposure to adverse weather, working in high traffic areas, potential exposure to radiation work, hazardous chemicals/waste, and noisy and/or loud equipment. Field work may include working with hazards involving the use of ladders, stairs, confined spaces, power tools and equipment which subjects the employee to mechanical and electrical hazards, moving vehicles, and heavy equipment. Varied work locations may expose incumbent to extreme temperatures and UV (sun) exposure. Position requires use of protective clothing and respirator as needed. Position requires irregular hours/overtime, shifts greater than 8 hours/day, and working alone.

Job Information

Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a System Mechanic to work on our Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) Maintenance team. Our team works a 4x10 schedule located out of our ATR facility with every Friday off.

  • Starting Pay: $46.35/hour. (Rates can vary based upon individual work location, clearances, qualifications, and certifications. Rates are accurate for current posting and subject to change. These are bargaining unit positions.) ATR-Qualified Pay: $48.94/hour. (Rates can vary based upon individual work location, clearances, qualifications, and certifications. Rates are accurate for current posting and subject to change. These are bargaining unit positions.)
  • TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

About Us

Benefits and Relocation

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
  • Paid time off (personal leave)
  • Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
  • Comprehensive Relocation Package
  • Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.

INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

INL Mission

Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.

INL Vision

Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.

Selective Service Requirements

To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov .

Equal Employment Opportunity

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Other Information

When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.

INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.

Salary : $46 - $49

If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution. Compensation Planning
Enhance your organization's compensation strategy with salary data sets that HR and team managers can use to pay your staff right. Surveys & Data Sets

What is the career path for a ATR Systems Mechanic - 1st Class?

Sign up to receive alerts about other jobs on the ATR Systems Mechanic - 1st Class career path by checking the boxes next to the positions that interest you.
Income Estimation: 
$53,290 - $69,188
Income Estimation: 
$61,853 - $80,766
Income Estimation: 
$53,290 - $69,188
Income Estimation: 
$61,853 - $80,766
Employees: Get a Salary Increase
View Core, Job Family, and Industry Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles Skills Library

Job openings at Idaho National Laboratory

  • Idaho National Laboratory Idaho, ID
  • Job Description Idaho National Laboratory is hiring a Fire Protection Engineer to work in our Environmental, Safety, Health and Quality department. Our tea... more
  • Just Posted

  • Idaho National Laboratory Idaho, ID
  • Job Description Idaho National Laboratory is hiring an Intellectual Property Licensing Specialist to support our Technology Deployment team with managing, ... more
  • Just Posted

  • Idaho National Laboratory Idaho, ID
  • Job Description Idaho National Laboratory is seeking Postdoctoral Research Associate candidates for the Energy Storage Research and Analysis Department. As... more
  • 1 Day Ago

  • Idaho National Laboratory Idaho, ID
  • Job Description Idaho National Laboratory is hiring an Industrial Hygienist/Industrial Safety Professional to work on our Occupational Safety Health team. ... more
  • 1 Day Ago


Not the job you're looking for? Here are some other ATR Systems Mechanic - 1st Class jobs in the Idaho, ID area that may be a better fit.

  • Idaho National Laboratory Idaho, ID
  • Job Description The Advanced Test Reactor at Idaho National Laboratory is one of the most unique and consequential facilities in the world. As the nation's... more
  • 3 Days Ago

  • Idaho National Laboratory Idaho, ID
  • Job Description The Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) organization at Idaho National Laboratory is seeking applicants for the Director of Operations. In this rol... more
  • 4 Days Ago

AI Assistant is available now!

Feel free to start your new journey!