Head of Manufacturing Quality Control

TRISO-X is a first‑of‑its‑kind nuclear fuel fabrication facility which will be manufacturing TRISO coated‑particle fuel. This role is responsible for hiring and developing a high‑performing team of quality control professionals focused on manufacturing excellence for nuclear fuel pebble production. The role is primarily intended to ensure manufacturing and quality control (QC) activities across our manufacturing facility by implementing standardized QC protocols and performing rigorous in‑process and final product inspections. The role will interface with operational leadership to identify manufacturing risks, communicate quality requirements, and ensure regulatory compliance with 10 CFR 70 and 10 CFR 71 and quality standards such as ISO 9001 and ASME NQA‑1. The role will also be responsible for expanding the existing Quality Management System to incorporate manufacturing‑specific requirements and establishing a phased QC plan that prioritizes critical processes. In addition, the role will oversee receipt inspection and limited calibration activities.

Quality Control Oversight : Develop, implement, and enforce a comprehensive QC strategy for manufacturing nuclear fuel pebbles, verification of facility items relied on for safety and development of monitoring and escalation protocols. Include QC protocols, policies, and benchmarks aligned with regulatory requirements (e.g., QMS : Expand the existing Quality Management System (QMS) to incorporate manufacturing‑specific QC requirements, focusing on adaptability to evolving customer requirements.

Planning : Establish and implement a phased QC plan for manufacturing verification, prioritizing critical processes while planning for future scalability.

Inspections & Audits : Conduct routine and special inspections, audits, and evaluations of input materials, nuclear fuel product, nuclear material transportation packages, facility safety components, and systems to verify compliance and identify improvement opportunities. Include receiving inspection and hold activities.

Testing & Analysis : Perform or supervise tests, measurements, and analyses on material in‑process and final fuel product, and related systems to verify performance, safety, and compliance.

Measurement & Testing Equipment : Perform and validate calibration of quality control laboratory equipment. Supervise the monitoring of measuring and test equipment used throughout the facility.

Lead investigations, root‑cause analyses, and corrective/preventive actions for quality product and facility equipment nonconformances, overseeing 10 CFR 21 issues.

Regulatory Compliance : Ensure adherence to nuclear regulatory frameworks, industry standards, and customer specifications.

Collaboration : Work closely with project managers, engineers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to resolve quality issues and implement improvements. Proactively identify and mitigate manufacturing risks through close working relationships with strategic partners. Interface with senior management to communicate manufacturing quality status and potential impacts on schedule or product integrity. Support Engineering, QA, Supplier Quality, and Procurement teams by communicating relevant corrective actions, non‑conformances, and deficiencies from QC activities.

Maintain accurate quality records and audit trails for regulatory and operational purposes.

Training & Development : Recruit, train, and manage specialized quality control technicians, maintaining a flexible mix of permanent and temporary personnel (as needed).

Bachelor’s degree in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, or math) or related field from an ABET‑accredited institution. business management, supply chain, project management, quality) may be considered with relevant work experience and training.

Typically requires 10 years of experience, including eight years performing QC activities and oversight in a manufacturing environment and QC inspection, test, and/or oversight of fabrication in the nuclear industry. Fabrication experience may be considered to augment QC experience.

Comprehensive knowledge and ability to interpret and apply various nuclear/non‑nuclear quality standards, including 10 CFR 50 App B, 10 CFR 21, ASME NQA‑1, ISO 9001. Strong knowledge of process control, in‑process inspections, and final product verification techniques. Experience in risk assessment and mitigation specific to manufacturing processes. Ability to expand and adapt quality management systems to incorporate manufacturing‑specific requirements. Experience with managing change control within manufacturing environments and updating inspection plans to reflect design revisions.

Analytical Skills : Ability to interpret inspection results, identify trends, and recommend corrective measures.

Experience leading cross‑functional teams and managing quality control programs.

Certifications : Familiarity with nuclear QA/QC standards (10 CFR 50 Appendix B, 10 CFR 21, 10 CFR 21) and relevant industry certifications (e.g., Work Site Expectations: 5 days a week in office

Travel: 10%

Salary may vary by location and market data.

Full time – Exempt

X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401(k) plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports continuing education.

Equal Opportunity Employer & Legal Statements

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish.

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