Principal Nuclear Licensing Engineer

Terrapower is seeking an experienced and strategic Principal Nuclear Licensing Engineer to join the Regulatory Affairs and Licensing team. Reporting to the Sr. VP of Regulatory Affairs, this leader will provide advanced licensing expertise, influence regulatory strategy, mentor licensing staff, and drive high-impact licensing activities for the Natrium advanced reactor project. The role includes leading development of licensing documents, directing regulatory interactions, and ensuring that licensing approaches are fully aligned with TerraPower’s long-term regulatory strategy.

This position requires deep proficiency in U.S. NRC regulations and guidance, extensive experience preparing and reviewing licensing applications, and a demonstrated ability to lead complex regulatory engagements. The Principal Nuclear Licensing Engineer will collaborate closely with engineering, project management, partners, and contractors to ensure successful, timely, and compliant licensing outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, authorship, and technical review of complex licensing documents, including major sections of an Operating License Application (e.g., Safety Analysis Report, Environmental Report).
• Provide strategic direction for regulatory engagement plans, technical justifications, and licensing pathways to support project goals.
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams to prepare high-quality responses to NRC audit questions and requests for additional information.
• Mentor junior and mid-level licensing engineers; provide guidance on regulatory interpretation, drafting approaches, and NRC engagement.
• Serve as a senior interface with the Licensing Team to scope, prioritize, and execute licensing activities.
• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to ensure regulatory compliance in design development, modifications, and configuration control.
• Oversee preparation, review, and control of licensing documentation in accordance with regulatory requirements and stringent QA standards.
• Lead technical and strategic interactions with partners, contractors, and internal engineering disciplines.
• Review and provide final approval recommendations on correspondence to and from regulatory agencies.
• Contribute significantly to the development of TerraPower’s licensing strategy, ensuring alignment with project timelines, risk profiles, and regulatory guidance.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (preferably nuclear or civil engineering) from an accredited university, or equivalent experience. Advanced degree strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to meet and uphold strict quality assurance standards.
• 15–20+ years of applicable experience in nuclear licensing or a closely related field.
• Extensive experience analyzing and interpreting U.S. NRC 10 CFR regulations and associated guidance.
• 15–20+ years of experience leading or significantly contributing to NRC construction permit and operating license applications.
• Deep understanding of nuclear reactor design, operation, and safety principles.
• Proven leadership experience, including mentoring and guiding technical staff.
• Ability to manage complex deadlines and work independently at a senior level.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite and Adobe Professional.
• Exceptional communication skills, including the ability to effectively represent TerraPower in regulatory interactions.
• High degree of integrity, trust, collaboration, and commitment to fostering strong team relationships.

Job Functions

Job Functions are physical actions and/or working conditions associated with the position. These functions may also constitute essential functions for the job which the employee must be able to fulfill, with or without accommodation.

• Motor Abilities: Sitting for extended periods, bending/stooping, grasping/gripping, fine motor control (hands)
• Physical exertion and/or requirements: Minimal, with ability to safely lift up to 25 pounds.
• Repetitive work: Prolonged
• Special Senses: Visual and audio focused work
• Work Conditions: Stairs, typing/keyboard, standard and/or sitting working environment of >8 hours/day
• Travel required 0-10%