Reactor Operator

Job description

Last Energy is seeking an experienced Reactor Operator to support the commissioning, startup, and safe operation of our PWR-5 test reactor. This is a ground-floor opportunity to help establish the operational foundation for a fleet of reactors that will be deployed globally at scale. You will work hands-on with a multidisciplinary team of nuclear engineers, I&C specialists, and plant staff to execute reactor operations safely, reliably, and in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements. ### Key Duties & Responsibilities - Monitor, operate, and control reactor systems during startup, operation, and shutdown in accordance with approved procedures and technical specifications - Execute fueling operations, including fuel handling, loading, core management activities, and associated radiological controls - Perform and document routine surveillances, plant walkdowns, and equipment checks to ensure systems remain within operational limits - Respond to abnormal and emergency plant conditions; execute abnormal operating procedures (AOPs) and emergency operating procedures (EOPs) as required - Support the development, review, and validation of plant operating procedures, especially as the PWR-5 design matures toward commercial deployment - Maintain rigorous configuration control and documentation standards consistent with nuclear quality assurance requirements - Participate in training, simulator exercises, and qualification programs; support the training of junior operators as applicable - Interface with regulatory authorities and support inspections, audits, and licensing activities as needed - Other duties as assigned ### Qualifications - 2+ years of hands-on reactor operations experience, with demonstrated proficiency in licensed or certified operator duties - Experience with pressurized water reactor (PWR) or pool-type reactor operations; BWR experience will also be considered - Direct experience supporting fueling operations, including fuel handling and associated radiological and criticality safety controls - Strong working knowledge of reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, and plant systems as applied to day-to-day operations - Familiarity with nuclear QA programs, technical specifications, and the regulatory framework governing nuclear plant operations (NRC or equivalent) - NRC Reactor Operator (RO) or Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, or equivalent certification (e.g., DOE-facility certification, international equivalent) is preferred - Experience with small modular reactors (SMRs), research reactors, or naval reactors is preferred - Familiarity with startup and commissioning activities for new reactor facilities is preferred - Experience supporting regulatory inspections or participating in licensing submittals is preferred - Ability to work effectively in a lean, fast-paced startup environment with a "builder" mindset - Proven ability to execute procedures with a rigorous, questioning attitude and high attention to detail