Program Manager - Reactor

About the role

Focused Energy is at the forefront of developing laser-driven inertial fusion technology aimed at delivering sustainable energy on a commercial scale. We are currently looking for a Program Manager to lead our reactor department initiatives, ensuring they align with our overarching company goals. This role is pivotal in managing complex projects that will contribute to the future of energy production.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and oversee comprehensive project timelines, tasks, and milestones for significant long-term projects, including the design of fusion island walls, procurement processes, and commissioning activities.
• Manage resource allocation and budgetary considerations across extensive multi-year programs, ensuring efficient use of personnel and financial resources.
• Utilize tools such as Jira, Jira Big Picture, and Confluence to administer workflows and project plans, ensuring all team members are aligned and informed.
• Foster effective communication among engineering, scientific, laser, and target teams to monitor and report on project progress and address any challenges that arise.
• Organize and maintain documentation for meetings, safety reviews, and internal progress updates, ensuring that all action items are tracked and completed in a timely manner.
• Supervise risk management processes and change control protocols within a safety-sensitive environment, prioritizing safety and compliance.
• Serve as the main point of contact between internal teams, external suppliers, regulatory agencies, and government partners, facilitating collaboration and information exchange.
• Support the finance department by coordinating public funding resources and ensuring that all financial aspects of projects are managed effectively.
• Ensure adherence to nuclear regulatory standards, high-voltage safety protocols, and radiation safety requirements throughout all project phases.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in physics, nuclear engineering, or a closely related discipline is required; a PhD is highly desirable.
• A solid professional background in research and development, along with engineering project management, particularly in the fields of nuclear energy or experimental physics.
• Proficiency in both English and German is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
• The ability to convey complex scientific ideas to non-technical audiences and regulatory entities is crucial.
• Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM) and the development of Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) is necessary.
• Familiarity with project management tools such as Jira, Jira Big Picture, and Confluence is required.
• A comprehensive understanding of the entire plant lifecycle, from initial design through to commissioning, is important for this role.
• Knowledge of safety case development and the processes involved in nuclear justification is essential.

Nice to have

• Previous experience in environments where radiation is controlled would be advantageous.
• Familiarity with nuclear regulatory frameworks or the licensing processes associated with them is a plus.
• Possession of IPMA or PMI certification would be beneficial.
• Experience managing programs that involve government research funding is desirable.
• A specialization in disciplines related to fusion technology would be a significant asset.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in using Jira, Jira Big Picture, and Confluence for project management.
• Knowledgeable in Earned Value Management (EVM) techniques.
• Experienced in creating Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) for project planning.
• Familiar with both agile and hybrid methodologies for project management.

Practical notes

• Employees enjoy a generous benefits package that includes 30 vacation days annually, a company-sponsored pension plan with a 20% employer contribution, and equity options in the form of stock options.
• Team members can choose between Windows or Apple hardware, along with necessary peripherals to support their work.
• Daily lunch options are provided at the Darmstadt canteen, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• Mobility assistance is available through a partnership with NAVIT, ensuring ease of commuting.
• Focused Energy is committed to being an equal opportunity employer, fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

About the company

Energy Focused Energy is at the forefront of developing NeoLyte - a pioneering initiative in compact, laser-driven radiation sources (LDRS) utilizing high-power laser technology. Our dual-mode LDRS platform integrates MeV X-rays and fast neutrons within a single, modular system, enabling real-time, non-destructive inspection of even the most complex and shielded materials.