Supplier Quality Engineer

About NANO Nuclear Energy

NANO Nuclear Energy is an advanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation microreactor systems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and resilient energy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, LOKI MMR™ Energy System, and ZEUS™ Solid Core Battery Reactor—advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technologies designed for applications including data centers, industrial operations, remote communities, and critical infrastructure—the company is advancing innovative nuclear solutions for a rapidly evolving energy landscape. NANO Nuclear has also submitted a Construction Permit Application (CPA) to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to support the planned deployment of the KRONOS MMR at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), representing a significant milestone toward the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology.

Joining NANO Nuclear means contributing to pioneering technologies with the potential to redefine the nuclear industry while working alongside experts in engineering, science, and innovation. Our team operates in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where employees are encouraged to solve challenging technical problems and advance the materials technologies needed for next-generation energy systems. 

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and collaborative professional to help ensure our suppliers consistently deliver products and services that meet the highest standards of quality, reliability, and compliance. In this role, you will partner with internal teams and external suppliers to drive continuous improvement, resolve quality issues, and support a strong, resilient supply base.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and qualify suppliers to confirm they meet technical, quality, and process requirements.
• Develop and maintain supplier quality standards, procedures, and performance metrics.
• Lead root cause analysis, trend analysis, non-conformance activities and corrective action activities for supplier-related quality issues.
• Collaborate with suppliers to improve processes, reduce defects, and strengthen product consistency.
• Conduct supplier audits, assessments, and quality reviews as needed.
• Review supplier documentation, including inspection plans, certifications, and control methods.
• Monitor supplier performance and communicate trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Work closely with engineering, procurement, manufacturing, and operations teams to support issue resolution.
• Support incoming inspection, nonconformance management, and containment activities when required.
• Participate in supplier development initiatives to enhance long-term quality and delivery performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, quality, supply chain, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of 10 CFR 50 Appendix B, 10 CFR 21, and ASME NQA-1
• Experience reviewing contracts, purchase orders, procedures and other documentation for compliance to quality standards and internal procedures.
• Nuclear industry experience in supplier quality, manufacturing quality, or a related quality assurance role.
• Knowledge of quality tools and methodologies such as root cause analysis, CAPA, FMEA, SPC, or control plans.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and inspection requirements.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency with quality management systems and common business software tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and follow through on action items with attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience conducting supplier audits or working with NQA-1-based quality systems.
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes, statistical analysis, and process capability methods.
• Experience supporting new product introductions or supplier onboarding activities.
• Professional certification in quality or related disciplines, such as ASQ certifications.

What We Offer 

• A collaborative culture focused on innovation and technical excellence.
• Opportunities for mentorship, professional growth, and technical leadership.
• The opportunity to contribute to a cleaner, more reliable energy future.
• Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance with generous company contributions.
• Company 401(k) plan with 5% match.
• Unlimited PTO policy with company holidays and paid parental leave.

Additional Information

This role may require occasional travel to supplier locations, facilities, or internal sites. The ideal candidate will bring a proactive mindset, strong communication skills, and a commitment to building trusted supplier relationships that support long-term business success.

Equal Opportunity Statement 

NANO Nuclear Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to apply.