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. 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 details
Salary Range: $123,395 - $193,146
Any salary offered within the posted range is based on market data and aligned with the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience. The specific point within the range will vary depending on the candidate’s geographic location.
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/
