Vice President, Engineering

Job Description Job Description About Ampera At Ampera, Inc., our mission is to enable the future of AI, world-class defense, and off-grid infrastructure with the world’s safest, most compact nuclear energy systems. We are pioneering next-generation nuclear technologies designed for resilience, portability, and unmatched safety — delivering clean, reliable power where it is needed most. Position Summary The Vice President, Engineering will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team and will be responsible for leading the end-to-end engineering strategy, design, development, testing, and deployment of Ampera’s advanced nuclear energy systems. This leader will build and scale a world-class, multidisciplinary engineering organization spanning nuclear, mechanical, electrical, thermal, systems, materials, safety, and software engineering. The VP will drive innovation while ensuring regulatory compliance, safety, manufacturability, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in complex, highly regulated environments (nuclear, aerospace, defense, energy, or advanced hardware), a track record of leading large engineering teams, and the ability to translate bold technical vision into commercially viable products. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership Define and execute Ampera’s long-term engineering roadmap aligned with corporate strategy. Serve as technical advisor to the CEO, Board, investors, and strategic partners. Lead technical risk identification and mitigation planning across all programs. Translate mission requirements (AI infrastructure, defense, off-grid) into scalable, modular system architectures. Engineering Execution Oversee the design, analysis, prototyping, testing, validation, and commercialization of compact nuclear systems. Ensure integration across reactor design, shielding, thermal management, controls, and power conversion systems. Implement rigorous systems engineering and configuration management processes. Establish engineering KPIs focused on safety, performance, cost, and schedule. Regulatory & Safety Oversight Ensure compliance with applicable nuclear regulatory bodies and safety standards. Lead safety case development and probabilistic risk assessments. Embed a culture of nuclear-grade quality and operational discipline. Oversee licensing support and engagement with regulatory authorities. Productization & Manufacturing Drive design-for-manufacturability and scalable production processes. Partner with Operations to transition from prototype to production. Oversee supplier selection, qualification, and technical audits. Ensure engineering documentation supports quality assurance and traceability. Team Building & Organizational Development Recruit, develop, and retain top-tier engineering talent. Build cross-functional collaboration across Engineering, Operations, Regulatory, and Business Development. Foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and safety-first decision-making. Develop succession plans and scalable organizational structures. External Engagement Partner with others in the organization to represent Ampera with government agencies, defense partners, national laboratories, and investors. Establish strategic technical partnerships and research collaborations. Support proposal development for government and defense contracts. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field (Master’s or PhD preferred). 15+ years of progressive engineering leadership experience in nuclear, aerospace, defense, advanced energy, or similarly regulated industries. Proven experience leading complex hardware product development from concept through commercialization. Deep understanding of nuclear safety principles and regulatory frameworks. Experience managing multidisciplinary engineering teams of 50+ professionals. Demonstrated success delivering high-reliability systems in mission-critical environments. Strong executive presence and ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Preferred Qualifications Direct experience with small modular reactors (SMRs) or microreactor technologies. Experience interfacing with U.S. defense agencies or national laboratories. Familiarity with ASME, NRC, DOE, or equivalent international regulatory standards. Experience scaling engineering organizations in high-growth or venture-backed environments. Active security clearance (or ability to obtain one). Leadership Competencies Visionary systems thinker Relentless commitment to safety and quality Decisive and data-driven Collaborative and mission-focused High integrity and ethical leadership Ability to operate effectively in ambiguity and rapid growth environments What We Offer Competitive salary Comprehensive benefits package including healthcare, dental, vision, STD, LTD, Life/AD&D and 401(k). Opportunity to pioneer advanced nuclear fuel technologies driving the next generation of clean energy. Collaborative, mission-driven environment that fosters technical excellence and innovation. Career advancement potential as AMPERA expands its fuel development and reactor manufacturing programs.