Nuclear Exam Writer
The Exam Developer will play a key role in designing and executing the licensing examination program for TerraPower’s FOAK fast sodium reactor (FSR). This includes all Initial License Training (ILT) program examinations and Licensed Operator Continuing Training (LOCT) examinations, ensuring full compliance with NUREG‑1021, 10 CFR Part 55, and future advanced‑reactor guidance (e.g., NEI 23‑01, NRC DRO‑ISG‑2301‑1, DANU‑ISG‑2022‑05).
A core element of this role is to develop and gain NRC approval of a customized Knowledge and Abilities (K/A) Catalog or equivalent competency framework tailored to fast sodium reactor technology, establishing the foundation for operator licensing, regulatory compliance, and long-term training program accreditation.
This individual will collaborate with internal reactor design, I&C, human factors, and training specialists—as well as external stakeholders such as the NRC—to ensure exam content validity, reliability, and traceability to plant systems and licensing requirements
Responsibilities
Obtain and maintain NATRIUM Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) Certification.
Develop and manage the Natrium licensing examination program in alignment with NUREG-1021, 10 CFR Part 55, advanced-reactor guidance (e.g., NEI 23-01, DRO-ISG-2301-1, DANU-ISG-2022-05), and all regulatory, accreditation, and QA requirements.
Design and manage all ILT program assessments using the Systematic Approach to Training (SAT), aligned with task, K/A, and KSA analyses.
Develops and administers periodic LOCT examinations—both written and simulator—to meet 10 CFR 55.59 requalification requirements.
Create and maintain reactor-specific Knowledge and Abilities (K/A) frameworks and catalogs, ensuring traceability to plant systems, procedures, design documents, and SAT-based training objectives.
Develop, update, and validate written examinations, simulator operating tests, JPMs, LOCT examinations, and exam scenarios using validated exam-development methodologies (item analysis, psychometrics, difficulty balancing, and peer review).
Maintain secure and accurate exam item banks, scenarios, and performance measures with strict confidentiality, version control, documentation standards, and auditable records.
Collaborate with simulator engineers, instructors, operators, SMEs, and licensing personnel to ensure exam content reflects Natrium design features, human-system interface characteristics, operator tasks, and operating expectations.
Coordinate with NRC examination and review staff to develop, submit, validate, and obtain approval for exam materials and K/A mappings; support audits, inspections, RFIs, and corrective actions.
Analyze exam results, candidate performance data, operating experience, and feedback to continuously improve exam quality, validity, and integration with the overall SAT-based training and qualification program.
Remain current on evolving NRC policies, advanced-reactor guidance, and industry best practices for exam development, validation, and program governance.
Key Qualifications and Skills Minimum
Previous NRC Reactor Operator (RO) or Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license or certification (license preferred); advanced‑reactor or non‑LWR experience a plus.
Certified Nuclear Instructor (INPO) or equivalent, or the ability to obtain certification.
5 years of nuclear plant operations and/or operator training
Strong technical writing and editing skills; ability to translate complex technical concepts into fair, testable items.
High attention to detail, sound judgment, and commitment to regulatory compliance and exam integrity.
Effective collaborator with strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
Eligibility for work on export-controlled projects (U.S. Citizen, National, or Permanent Resident).
Preferred
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, nuclear technology, or a related technical field preferred.
5+ years of experience developing licensing or qualification examinations in the nuclear power industry, preferably within a regulated environment.
Prior experience developing or maintaining a K/A Catalog or similar knowledge and abilities mapping for a nuclear training or licensing program.
Experience collaborating with NRC staff on exam plan development, validation, or licensing reviews.
Familiarity with fast reactor systems, sodium coolant behavior, and digital I&C architectures.
Demonstrated experience developing examinations in accordance with NUREG‑1021 and applying SAT, task, and KSA analyses.
Familiarity with proposed advanced‑reactor licensing/training guidance (e.g., NEI 23‑01, DRO‑ISG‑2301‑1, DANU‑ISG‑2022‑05); knowledge of 10 CFR Part 55 and associated NRC processes.
Demonstrate flexibility and ability to navigate and implement current and future regulator and industry guidance for license examinations to the NATRIUM reactor design while fostering effective open-communication and fostering trust with internal and external stakeholders.
Performance Expectations
ILT and LOCT exams are delivered on schedule, meet regulatory standards, and withstand NRC review.
Exam content reflects current procedures, plant modifications, and operating experience.
Operators are well‑prepared for licensing and demonstrate competence in required knowledge and skills.
Examination processes maintain full integrity and security; findings from audits and reviews are addressed promptly and effectively.
This position is subject to qualification requirements in accordance with ANSI/ANS 3.1. Candidates must meet the minimum education and experience criteria applicable to the role, including relevant nuclear industry experience where required. Verification of data will be part of the hiring process.
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. Information provided below is to help describe the job so that the applicant has a reasonable understanding of the job duties/expectations. An applicant's ability to perform and/or tolerate these actions and conditions will be discussed and workplace accommodations may be made on a case-by-case basis following an individualized assessment of the applicant and other considerations, including but not limited to any governing safety standards.
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%
TerraPower’s technology is controlled for export by various agencies of the U.S. Government. TerraPower must evaluate applicants who are foreign nationals (other than asylees, refugees, or lawful permanent residents) in accordance with U.S. Government export control requirements. To facilitate TerraPower’s export control reviews, you will be asked as part of the application process to identify whether you are a U.S. Citizen or national, asylee, refugee, or lawful permanent resident of the United States. Government export authorization approval times vary. Based on the business needs for a particular position, TerraPower may not consider a foreign national from a country if it is impracticable to obtain timely Government export approval.
Job Type: Full-time
Salary Range: $141,385 - $212,079
We typically place offers in the lower to middle portion of the range to maintain internal equity and allow room for growth. Any salary offered within the posted salary band is based on market data and commensurate with the selected individual’s qualifications experience. This range is specific to Wyoming State.
Benefits
Competitive Compensation
Salary, eligible to participate in discretionary short-term incentive payments
Comprehensive Medical and Wellness Benefits
Medical
Vision
Dental
Life and Disability
Gender Affirmation Benefits
Parental Leave
401k Plan
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
21 days of annually accrued PTO
Generous Holiday Schedule
10 paid holidays
Relocation Assistance
Professional and Educational Support Opportunities
TerraPower Career and Benefits information: https://www.terrapower.com/contact-us/careers/
