Quality Assurance Manager

Job title: Quality Assurance Manager

About the Role Develop, implement, and maintain the NEXT Lab Quality Assurance Program in accordance with NRC, DOE, and industry standards. Ensure QA processes support safe and compliant research, training, and experimental activities. Monitor adherence to quality requirements across all projects and operations.

What You'll Do

• Develop, implement, and maintain the NEXT Lab Quality Assurance Program per NRC/DOE/industry standards and lab needs.
• Monitor adherence to QA requirements across all projects and operations.
• Establish inspection and testing protocols for research activities, experimental systems, and facility equipment; verify conformity to specifications and safety requirements.
• Document and track non-conformances; implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Oversee PFMEA creation and maintenance to proactively identify risks and drive corrective actions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate QA strategies into process design and improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate inventory and accountability of all nuclear materials per DOE/NRC requirements; track usage, transfers, and storage.
• Establish document control procedures for QA/QC records, licenses, and compliance documents; ensure accessibility, security, and retention per federal requirements.
• Support staff with proper document preparation, version control, and archiving.
• Oversee export control compliance (ITAR, EAR); train researchers and staff; review proposals for export restrictions.
• Act as QA/QC representative during NRC/DOE and third-party audits; prepare documentation and address findings; coordinate corrective actions.
• Identify opportunities to improve QA/QC processes and efficiency; develop and deliver QA/QC training programs; promote a culture of quality and safety across the lab.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Quality Assurance, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in nuclear QA/QC or regulated research/industrial environment.
• Preferred experience with NRC/DOE audits, inspections, and quality management systems.
• Preferred familiarity with export control laws and nuclear material accountability practices.
• Professional certification in Quality Management (ASQ-CQA, ISO 9001 Lead Auditor, etc.) preferred.
• Proficient with general computer skills including e-mail, video conferencing, Acrobat, and Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint).
• Knowledge of NRC and DOE QA/QC regulations and standards.
• Strong understanding of nuclear materials accounting principles.
• Expertise in document control systems and compliance management.
• Ability to conduct audits, root cause analysis, and corrective action plans.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Personal integrity, attention to detail, and commitment to safety; ability to work across technical and administrative teams.
• Organized, proactive, and adaptable in a dynamic research environment.
• Commitment to NEXT Lab’s mission and safety in nuclear research.

Nice to Have

• Master’s degree (preferred) and additional relevant certifications (e.g., ASQ-CQA, ISO 9001 Lead Auditor).
• Familiarity with export control practices and nuclear material accountability.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary information not provided in the posting.