Quality Assurance Lead Engineer

Quality Assurance Lead Engineer

Zap Energy is advancing the next generation of nuclear power technology across fusion, fission and hybrid applications. Built on an integrated platform of high-energy-density physics and pulsed power, liquid metals and advanced materials, and compact, modular systems, Zap is building the foundational technologies needed to deploy the energy sources of the future.

Zap Energy is seeking a Quality Assurance Team Lead to support the Zap Micro Reactor (ZMR) program. In this role, you will lead the Quality Assurance (QA) team to establish a right-sized QA Program, implement a graded approach that aligns with design phases and maturation of design, and integrate the QA Program throughout design, testing, procurement, fabrication, commissioning, and build.

• Leadership
  :
  • Plan, organize and lead the establishment, implementation, and adherence to the Quality Assurance program, including:
    Quality Assurance Program Description, NRC and DOE Engagements, Compliance with Federal Regulations (10 CFR Part 50, Appendix B and 10 CFR Part 830).
  • Define Quality Program Requirements, Corrective Action Program, Records/Document/Data Management, Design and Test Control, Configuration Control, Procurement, Material Handling/Control, Qualified Suppliers.
• Line Manager
  :
  Build out the QA team and act as line manager. Develop and monitor metrics to assess and improve team performance, own team’s performance, delivery of scope, and their professional development.
• Individual Contribution
  :
  Develop roadmap for QA Program implementation and be accountable for its execution. Write graded, high-quality procedures and implementation guides. Plan and assign work packages to meet schedule milestones. Serve as the primary point of contact for the Zap QA Program.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration
  :
  Work with broader engineering and procurement teams to ensure QA program compliance. Actively identify areas for engineering and process improvement, including implementation of solutions.
• Supplier Collaboration
  :
  Organize and participate in supplier audits, ensure QA Program requirements are met by suppliers, and review supplier submittals, including non‑conformance reports, requiring QA signature.

• Education
  :
  Bachelor’s degree in Nuclear Engineering or related field from an ABET‑accredited program is required.
• Technical Experience
  :
  • At least 8 years of experience as a member or manager of a QA team or engineering team subject to a QA Program.
  • Experience implementing or modifying QA Program processes and procedures.
  • Experience managing technical documentation.
  • Experience with ASME NQA‑1 is preferred.
  • Experience working within the NRC Licensing and/or DOE Authorization frameworks.
• Technical Skills
  :
  • Firm understanding of the product lifecycle, including maturation of design and testing, and transition from design to fabrication, commissioning, and build.
  • Ability to understand how a complex system works, including its key functions and characteristics.
  • Ability to identify quality issues during shop walk‑downs and oversight of fabrication and testing activities.
• Managerial Experience
  :
  At least 2 years of experience managing a team of three or more direct reports.
• Communication
  :
  Excellent technical writing skills and the ability to clearly present complex information to both internal and external stakeholders, including regulators. Proficiency in reducing complex standards into procedures and actionable work instructions.
• Licenses / Certifications
  :
  An NQA‑1 Lead Auditor certification is a bonus.
• Personal Attributes and Skills
  :
  • Strong commitment to safety, quality, and ethical standards in engineering.
  • Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with attention to detail.
  • Self‑starter with a can‑do attitude.
  • Familiarity and competence with basic program management processes and tools.
  • Outside‑the‑box thinking, grounded in practical engineering solutions.
  • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary team environment.
  • Adaptability, resilience, and commitment to continuous learning.
• Eligibility for export authorization may be required.

Estima…