Job Description - Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer
The Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of nuclear facilities by assessing and mitigating potential criticality hazards. This role requires a highly skilled professional with a deep understanding of nuclear physics, criticality safety methodologies, and regulatory compliance. The Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer works collaboratively with cross-functional teams to develop and implement criticality safety programs and procedures.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Conduct criticality safety evaluations and analyses to identify potential hazards and design appropriate controls and safeguards.
2. Develop and maintain criticality safety documentation, including safety analysis reports, technical specifications, and operating procedures.
3. Perform criticality accident analysis to assess the consequences and potential risks associated with nuclear material handling and storage.
4. Review and approve nuclear facility designs, modifications, and operational procedures to ensure compliance with criticality safety standards and regulations.
5. Provide technical guidance and support to facility personnel on criticality safety matters, including training and coaching on safe work practices.
6. Collaborate with project teams to assess and manage criticality safety risks during design, construction, and operation of nuclear facilities.
7. Conduct audits and inspections to verify compliance with criticality safety requirements and identify areas for continuous improvement.
8. Participate in incident investigations and root cause analyses related to criticality safety events, and recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
9. Stay updated with advancements in criticality safety practices, regulations, and industry best practices, and incorporate them into the organization's processes and procedures.
10. Liaise with regulatory authorities and participate in regulatory inspections and audits related to criticality safety.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
1. Bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering, physics, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
2. In-depth knowledge of nuclear physics, criticality safety principles, and related codes and standards (e.g., ANSI/ANS, NUREG, and DOE orders).
3. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex technical issues and develop effective solutions.
4. Proficiency in using criticality safety analysis software such as MCNP, SCALE, or similar tools.
5. Excellent understanding of nuclear facility design, operations, and maintenance practices.
6. Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry guidelines related to nuclear criticality safety, such as 10 CFR 830 Subpart B, DOE-STD-3007, and DOE O 420.1C.
7. Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
8. Detail-oriented mindset with a strong commitment to accuracy and quality in criticality safety assessments and documentation.
9. Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and foster positive relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
10. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Note: This job description outlines the primary duties and requirements of the Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer role. However, it is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and qualifications. The incumbent may be required to perform additional tasks as needed to support the organization's goals and objectives.