Quality Engineer - SMR Nuclear Programs

The Quality Engineer III is a senior nuclear quality assurance authority responsible for implementing, overseeing, and enforcing Holtec’s quality assurance program in support of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) initiatives. Reporting directly to the SMR Quality Manager, this role serves as an independent quality function, providing authoritative oversight and regulatory interpretation to ensure SMR design, manufacturing, construction, and supplier activities comply with 10 CFR 50 Appendix B, NQA 1, ASME Section III & VIII, ISO 9001, and other applicable standards. The Quality Engineer III plays a critical role in identifying, escalating, and resolving quality issues; leading corrective action and audit activities; coaching organizations on nuclear QA expectations; and driving continuous improvement to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of Holtec’s nuclear quality assurance program.

Location: Camden, NJ (Travel and potential remote project assignments required)

Primary Responsibilities:

• Provide senior‑level quality engineering oversight to ensure SMR project activities meet regulatory requirements, codes, standards, and approved procedures
• Serve as a technical authority on nuclear quality requirements including 10 CFR 50 Appendix B, NQA‑1, ASME Section III & VIII, and ISO 9000
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve quality processes supporting SMR design, manufacturing, construction, inspection, and testing activities
• Perform defect trend analysis and root cause analysis related to nonconforming materials, processes, and systems
• Create, review, trend, and oversee Corrective Action Requests (CARs) and ensure timely and effective closure
• Generate, revise, and implement Holtec procedures, work instructions, and quality documentation
• Conduct and support internal surveillances, commercial grade surveys, and audits of Holtec operations and supplier facilities
• Provide technical support for design verification, testing, inspection, receiving inspection, and work‑in‑process activities
• Review quality and regulatory documentation packages to verify compliance with governing requirements
• Provide oversight for Measuring and Test Equipment (M&TE) calibration and control programs
• Support supplier quality activities including qualification, surveillance, audits, and performance evaluation
• Partner with Engineering, Procurement, Manufacturing, and Project Teams to establish inspection, testing, and acceptance criteria
• Lead and support SMR quality investigations and corrective actions
• Support new‑hire quality training and annual retraining requirements across Holtec
• Manage, mentor, and train quality team members; support performance management and assist with hiring within the department

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Nuclear, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, or Controls preferred); OR Associate’s degree with a minimum of one (1) year of nuclear quality assurance (NQA‑1) experience; OR High school diploma with a minimum of three (3) years of nuclear quality assurance (NQA‑1) experience
• Minimum 5–7 years of direct experience working within a nuclear Quality Assurance organization under 10 CFR 50 Appendix B and NQA‑1
• Demonstrated knowledge of nuclear quality and regulatory requirements, including 10 CFR 50 Appendix B, NQA‑1, ASME Section III & VIII, ASTM/ANSI standards, ISO 9000 / ISO 17025, and 10 CFR 21
• Proven commitment to nuclear safety culture and quality assurance principles in highly regulated environments
• Strong technical aptitude with the ability to interpret engineering documentation, regulatory requirements, and quality records
• Demonstrated experience with root cause analysis, defect trending, corrective action programs, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Ability to develop, implement, and maintain quality processes, procedures, documentation, and quality management systems
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time‑management skills with the ability to prioritize work in fast‑paced, multi‑project environments
• Ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, procurement, manufacturing, and supplier organizations, serving as a technical quality liaison as needed
• Demonstrated leadership capability, including mentoring and supporting training, audits, surveillances, and supplier evaluations
• Experience supporting nuclear facilities or nuclear power plant construction activities preferred
• Lead Auditor (NQA‑1) or Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) credentials preferred
• Knowledge of statistical process control (SPC), Six Sigma, Non‑Destructive Examination (NDE) methods (VT, PT, MT, UT, RT), and Commercial Grade Dedication (CGD) programs preferred
• Willingness and ability to travel and support on‑site or remote project assignments as required

A Generation Ahead by Design™
Investing in people who power the future.

We believe great work deserves great rewards. Our benefits go beyond the basics, reflecting our commitment to supporting your whole self…your health, your future, and your career growth. This includes:

Compensation:

• Annual compensation based on skills and experience ranging from $xx,xxx to $xx,xxx

Benefits:

• Industry‑leading medical, dental, and vision coverage with a generous employer premium contribution and Day 1 eligibility!
• FLEX Program – Hybrid work opportunities available for eligible roles, where business needs and role requirements allow
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to a 5% company match and immediate vesting to support long‑term financial security
• Paid time off and 11 paid holidays to support rest, balance, and recharge
• Wellness program offering rewards for participation in company‑supported health initiatives
• Commuter benefits supporting mass transit and commuter parking options
• Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance for added peace of mind
• Education assistance to support continued education and professional growth
• Employee support and voluntary benefits, including an Employee Assistance Program and optional coverage such as disability, legal, identity theft, and insurance programs
• Benefits eligibility and offerings may vary based on role, location, and employment status 

If you’re driven to solve meaningful challenges and make a lasting impact, we invite you to build your career at Holtec—a generation ahead by design™.