Director, Nuclear Engineering — Fusion Systems Leader

Thea Energy; Kearny (NJ); On-site; USD 160,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Employee equity stock options

PTO 20 days

Job summary

Thea Energy is seeking a Director of Nuclear Engineering to lead our nuclear engineering program for a first-of-a-kind integrated fusion system. You will steer safety, design, and regulatory compliance while building and mentoring a high-performing team in a startup setting.

Ideal candidates have 15+ years in nuclear engineering, leadership in advanced nuclear projects, and a strong ability to translate business needs into technical strategies.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of work experience in nuclear engineering or a related field.
• Proven leadership on cutting-edge nuclear projects (e.g., Gen-IV, SMR, accelerator projects).
• Experience thriving in a startup environment with proven team-building ability.
• Strong analytical skills and understanding of first principles in engineering.
• Ability to translate business needs into technical solutions.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and grow a world-class team of nuclear engineers.
• Direct the nuclear design of fusion systems including blanket, shield, and fuel cycle.
• Manage system facility nuclear aspects, dose rates, activation products, and high-energy cascades.
• Interface safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental standards.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop engineering talent.
• Collaborate with system owners to align development with schedules.
• Ensure quality and accuracy of the team's work, reports, and presentations.

Skills

leadership experience

analytical skills

communication skills

startup experience

Education

MS/PhD in nuclear engineering

Job description

Thea Energy is seeking a Director of Nuclear Engineering to lead our nuclear engineering program for a first-of-a-kind integrated fusion system. You will steer safety, design, and regulatory compliance while building and mentoring a high-performing team in a startup setting.

Ideal candidates have 15+ years in nuclear engineering, leadership in advanced nuclear projects, and a strong ability to translate business needs into technical strategies.