Quality Assurance Manager

Abilene Christian University; Abilene (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Abilene Christian University seeks a seasoned Quality Assurance professional to lead NEXT Lab’s QA program, ensuring compliance with NRC/DOE standards across research and training activities.

You will establish inspection protocols, manage PFMEA, and coordinate audits with regulators while driving continuous improvement and staff training within a safety-focused culture.

Qualifications

• Professional Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Quality Assurance, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in nuclear QA/QC or regulated research/industrial environment.
• Preferred experience with NRC/DOE audits, inspections, and quality management systems.
• Preferred familiarity with export control laws and nuclear material accountability practices.
• Professional certification in Quality Management (ASQ-CQA, ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, etc.) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the NEXT Lab Quality Assurance Program per NRC/DOE standards.
• Establish inspection protocols and track non-conformances; drive corrective actions.
• Maintain PFMEA for risk identification and mitigation in processes and projects.
• Oversee regulatory interface, audits, and documentation readiness for regulators.
• Deliver QA/QC training and promote quality culture across the lab.

Skills

Computer skills

NRC/DOE QA

Nuclear materials accounting

Document control

Audits & CAPA

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s in Nuclear Eng, Mechanical Eng, QA or related

Master’s preferred

Tools

Quality Management Systems

Job description

Basic Responsibilities

Quality Assurance Program Oversight

Develop, implement, and maintain the NEXT Lab Quality Assurance Program in accordance with NRC, DOE, and industry standards. Ensure QA processes support safe and compliant research, training, and experimental activities. Monitor adherence to quality requirements across all projects and operations.

Quality Control Implementation

Establish inspection and testing protocols for research activities, experimental systems, and facility equipment. Verify conformity of processes, equipment, and outcomes to established specifications and safety requirements. Document and track non-conformances, implementing corrective and preventive actions. Oversee the creation and maintenance of Process Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (PFMEA) to proactively identify potential risks, assess their impact, and drive corrective actions. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to integrate quality assurance strategies into process design and improvement initiatives.

Nuclear Material Control & Accountability

Maintain accurate inventory and accountability of all nuclear materials in compliance with DOE and NRC requirements. Use approved methods for tracking nuclear material usage, transfers, and storage. Conduct periodic audits of nuclear materials control and reconcile discrepancies.

Document & Records Management

Establish document control procedures for QA/QC records, facility licenses, and compliance documents. Ensure accessibility, security, and retention of QA/QC documentation per federal requirements. Support staff with proper document preparation, version control, and archiving.

Export Control Compliance

Oversee compliance with federal export control laws (e.g., ITAR, EAR) relevant to NEXT Lab’s research. Provide training and guidance to researchers and staff regarding export control obligations. Review research proposals and collaborations for compliance with export restrictions.

Regulatory Interface & Audits

Act as QA/QC representative during NRC, DOE, and third‑party audits or inspections. Ensure timely preparation and availability of QA/QC documentation for regulators. Address findings from inspections and coordinate implementation of corrective actions.

Continuous Improvement & Training

Identify opportunities for improving QA/QC processes and efficiency. Develop and deliver QA/QC training programs for NEXT Lab staff. Promote a strong culture of quality, compliance, and accountability across the lab.

Essential Duties

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

Professional Development Requirements

Skills

• Proficient with general computer skills including e‑mail, video conferencing, Acrobat, and Microsoft Office products (i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint).
• Knowledge of NRC and DOE QA/QC regulations and standards.
• Strong understanding of nuclear materials accounting principles.
• Expertise in document control systems and compliance management.
• Ability to conduct audits, root cause analysis, and corrective action plans.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Qualifications

Professional Bachelor’s degree in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Quality Assurance, or related field (Master’s preferred). Minimum 5 years of experience in nuclear QA/QC or regulated research/industrial environment. Preferred experience with NRC/DOE audits, inspections, and quality management systems. Preferred familiarity with export control laws and nuclear material accountability practices. Professional certification in Quality Management (ASQ‑CQA, ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, etc.) preferred.

Personal

• Strong attention to detail and analytical problem‑solving skills.
• High integrity and commitment to compliance and safety.
• Effective communicator with ability to work across technical and administrative teams.
• Organized, proactive, and adaptable in a dynamic research environment.
• Committed to fostering NEXT Lab’s mission and innovation and safety in nuclear research.

Physical Demands

Able to lift50pounds on a regular basis. Able to stand1hour or more.

Disability and Background Check Policy

ACU does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, sex, disability, genetic information, national or ethnic origin in employment opportunities, in keeping with applicable state and federal law. ACU is committed to maintaining a safe and secure campus environment and protecting the university's financial and physical assets. Therefore, Abilene Christian University conducts background checks on all candidates for employment in security sensitive positions. As a current employee, it will be determined if you need an additional background check upon your hire.

About Abilene Christian University

Abilene Christian University is the premier university for the education of Christ‑centered, global leaders, offering an exceptional education to about 6,700 students annually from 51 states and territories, and 42 nations. This private, comprehensive university, founded in1906 in Abilene, Texas, offers 88 baccalaureate majors that include more than 175 areas of study, 77 areas of study in master’s degree and specialist programs, and five doctoral programs. It has been ranked as one of the top institutions in the nation for undergraduate research, undergraduate teaching, first‑year experiences, service learning, study abroad and learning communities. ACU’s mission is to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world. ACU Dallas, a branch campus in Addison, Texas, is the home of the university’s online undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.