Nuclear Operations Lead/Manager

About the role

Antares is seeking a Nuclear Operations Lead to manage the execution of our nuclear programs and systems. This position is critical for ensuring the successful deployment, initiation, and operation of our reactors in accordance with established safety and design standards. The ideal candidate will excel in navigating technical and organizational boundaries while ensuring clarity and precision in complex environments. You will own the end-to-end management of nuclear operational activities, translating strategic objectives into safe and reliable execution. This role requires a leader who can foster cross-functional alignment while maintaining unwavering adherence to nuclear quality and safety standards. You will be the central point of accountability for the operational integrity of Antares' reactor systems and test programs. Your decisions will directly influence the scalability, reliability, and customer satisfaction of our deployed nuclear solutions.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee the daily execution of nuclear test operations and reactor facility activities to ensure adherence to schedule, safety, and performance targets.
• Lead the development and implementation of nuclear operational procedures and training curricula for reactor operators and maintenance personnel.
• Analyze current staffing capabilities and define future operational roles, creating structured programs to close any identified capability gaps.
• Drive a culture of operational excellence by establishing metrics, monitoring performance, and instituting corrective actions where necessary.
• Coordinate and supervise all nuclear-related activities for Antares test reactors and deployed systems, ensuring seamless integration with broader program objectives.
• Facilitate technical reviews and discussions with internal engineering teams and external partners to resolve operational challenges and optimize processes.
• Translate complex operational data and insights into clear recommendations for engineering and program management teams.
• Collaborate with engineering and program functions to identify opportunities for improving reactor deployment consistency and scalability.
• Ensure all nuclear operations remain compliant with internal standards and the expectations of regulatory stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary operational subject matter expert for cross-functional initiatives and strategic decision-making forums.
• Mentor junior operations staff and foster their growth through structured guidance and hands-on leadership opportunities.
• Support the preparation of operational documentation, status reports, and technical narratives for internal and external audiences.
• Evaluate emerging operational risks and implement mitigation strategies to protect personnel, equipment, and program success.
• Promote continuous improvement by challenging existing workflows and proposing enhancements based on operational feedback and best practices.

Requirements

• Possess a minimum of 4 years of experience in nuclear, aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated technical sectors.
• Demonstrate a proven track record of collaborating across multiple disciplines to successfully deliver complex projects.
• Show the ability to integrate technical, regulatory, and operational requirements into clear and actionable implementation plans.
• Exhibit experience operating effectively in fast-paced, ambiguous, and rapidly changing environments without losing focus on safety and objectives.
• Communicate technical information with precision and confidence to both internal teams and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Maintain U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, refugee status, or asylee status to meet requirements for ITAR-related authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
• Adhere to eligibility conditions that necessitate U.S. government security eligibility and related vetting for access to controlled information.
• Apply judgment and rigor to ensure that all nuclear operational activities align with established safety protocols and quality expectations.

Nice to have

• Hold a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in engineering disciplines such as nuclear, mechanical, chemical, aerospace, or a closely related field.
• Bring direct experience with reactor operations, including roles in startup, commissioning, or deployment activities.
• Possess in-depth knowledge of nuclear safety principles and compliance protocols relevant to regulated environments.
• Have a history of engaging with customers, regulators, or external partners in technically demanding contexts.
• Draw on a background within the U.S. Navy nuclear program, national laboratories, or the commercial nuclear energy sector.

Practical notes

This role requires U.S. citizenship or equivalent eligibility to obtain necessary authorizations due to ITAR regulations. Travel may be required to support program needs as outlined in operational schedules. Employment is contingent upon meeting all security and eligibility requirements for access to controlled information. Antares complies with all applicable visa and employment authorization regulations for the position location.