BEO - Director of Operations

Bwxt • Oak Ridge, TN

84d • $161,000 - $233,000 • Remote

About The Position

At BWXT, we are committed to delivering innovative nuclear solutions that contribute to a better world. We recently announced a new venture in advanced uranium enrichment, designed to support a new era of energy innovation and national security while modernizing the fuel cycle. As a trusted leader in nuclear operations, we are expanding into the enrichment sector and are actively seeking visionary leaders to help shape the future of nuclear energy in the United States. The Director of Operations will provide executive leadership and strategic oversight of BWXT's uranium enrichment centrifuge operations and plant start-up. This position is responsible for driving safe, compliant, and high-performing operations across the enrichment enterprise — including cascade production, regulatory engagement, safety basis management, and facility readiness.

Requirements

• 20+ years of progressive leadership experience in nuclear operations, including direct oversight of fuel cycle facilities, uranium enrichment, or high-hazard Category I operations.
• Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Deep technical understanding of gas centrifuge enrichment, safety analysis methods, and NRC licensing frameworks.
• Experience leading or supporting NRC Operational Readiness Reviews, safety basis implementation, and integrated facility startups.
• Strong working knowledge of 10 CFR 70, NQA-1 programs, ISA processes, and DOE/NRC regulatory interfaces.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex teams and multi-million-dollar operational budgets in high-consequence nuclear environments.
• Proven ability to interface with federal agencies, regulators, and corporate stakeholders with clarity and confidence.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) security clearance (active clearance strongly preferred).
• Ability to report to an assigned work location. This is not a remote work opportunity.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• MBA or other advanced business/leadership education.
• DOE 'Q' Clearance.
• Prior experience with BWXT, URENCO, or similar uranium enrichment programs strongly preferred.
• Military nuclear background (e.g., U.S. Navy Nuclear Program) considered a strong asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day and strategic operations for uranium enrichment centrifuge facilities, including production, engineering integration, and safety compliance.
• Oversee the commissioning, testing, and operational readiness of enrichment cascades while ensuring alignment with BWXT's safety, quality, and performance standards.
• Ensure full regulatory compliance with NRC, DOE/NNSA, and IAEA requirements, including license amendments, safety evaluations, and ISA/ISA Summary implementation.
• Drive a performance-focused culture through measurable KPIs, root cause analysis, operational excellence initiatives, and workforce development.
• Manage and develop senior operational leadership, including Shift Managers, Technical Advisors, Engineering Leads, and Licensing personnel.
• Lead interactions with NRC, DOE/NNSA, and internal audit/assurance teams on licensing, inspections, and compliance programs.
• Provide direct oversight of NQA-1 quality assurance programs, configuration management, and continuous improvement strategies across operations.
• Steward an operating budget exceeding $10M and contribute to capital planning and strategic funding decisions in coordination with corporate leadership.
• Serve as a member of the site executive team and contribute to long-term enrichment capability expansion and technology innovation.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work-life balance.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
• An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
• The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree