Nuclear Operations ManagerValar Atomics
We’re seeking an Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of one of the most advanced nuclear and fuel systems ever built. This is a hands-on leadership role - responsible for guiding reactor and fuel plant operators, managing radiation safety and compliance, and ensuring operational excellence across all systems and shifts. You’ll oversee both the reactor plant and the pilot TRISO fuel fabrication facility, ensuring smooth, safe, and efficient operation of all site activities - from startup and commissioning through steady-state operation and production.
This position is based at the Orangeville, Utah pilot facility, with periodic travel to Valar Atomics’ Los Angeles headquarters for coordination, training, and integration with engineering and design teams. At Valar, we believe in shared ownership of the mission. Everyone contributes where needed - whether that means lending a hand on the floor, leading a safety review, or troubleshooting equipment. As Operations Manager, you’ll model this culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Salary is dependent on experience.
Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of reactor and fuel plant operators, fostering technical excellence and a strong safety culture
Oversee daily operations of advanced high-temperature reactor systems and TRISO fuel fabrication processes
Manage radiation protection, safety, and environmental compliance programs in coordination with EHS and regulatory teams
Develop, implement, and maintain operating procedures, training programs, and qualification standards for plant personnel
Plan and manage budgets, staffing, and scheduling for operational activities and maintenance
Support commissioning, startup, and performance testing for both reactor and fuel systems
Monitor and analyze operational data to ensure efficiency, reliability, and adherence to performance goals
Coordinate cross-functional efforts between engineering, quality assurance, and regulatory teams
Promote a culture where everyone steps up to meet the most critical needs--regardless of title--to ensure safe and successful operation
Hands-on leader with a deep understanding of complex technical systems and process operations
Experienced in building and mentoring high-performing operational teams
Committed to safety, precision, and continuous improvement
Comfortable in a startup environment where priorities evolve and collaboration is essential
Motivated by the mission to redefine what’s possible in clean, scalable energy
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, nuclear technology, or a related technical discipline
- Power plant leadership•5+ years
- OR Nuclear leadership•5+ years
- OR Advanced manufacturing leadership•5+ years
- Operations, maintenance, or production leadership•1+ years
- Knowledge of industrial safety•1+ years
- Knowledge of radiation protection•1+ years
- Quality assurance programs•1+ years
- Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, staffing, and operational schedules
- Willingness to travel as needed to Los Angeles for coordination and training
- Background in nuclear reactor or fuel fabrication operations
- Familiarity with TRISO fuel systems, helium coolant loops, or high-temperature process systems
- Commissioning, facility startups, or regulatory compliance under DOE, NRC, or equivalent frameworks
- Radiation safety officer•5+ years
- Nuclear operations supervision•5+ years
At Valar Atomics, we’re redefining what’s possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable - unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We’re a team of builders, engineers, and visionaries who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future.
Lead a pioneering operations team driving the future of clean nuclear energy and fuel innovation
Work at the intersection of reactor technology, advanced manufacturing, and safety excellence
Join a culture that values curiosity, initiative, and teamwork - where everyone helps achieve the mission
Competitive compensation, equity opportunities, and significant room for growth as we scale
