Regulatory Coordinator - Rancho Seco Nuclear Facility

SMUD stands out as a forward-thinking utility dedicated to delivering clean, reliable energy while promoting safety, sustainability, and operational excellence. We take pride in our community-centered approach and our proactive commitment to meeting rigorous regulatory standards. The successful candidate for this role will be vital in helping us maintain compliance with Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) requirements and manage nuclear fuel safely at Rancho Seco. This position is especially well suited for candidates with experience in the U.S. Navy's Nuclear Propulsion Program or similar military nuclear operations. That background provides valuable skills and insights that directly support the critical compliance, security, and emergency management responsibilities required to succeed in this role. We are seeking a skilled and dedicated Regulatory Coordinator to join our Rancho Seco team. Reporting directly to the Manager, Rancho Seco Assets, you will ensure SMUD meets evolving NRC regulations, especially in response to upcoming rulemakings and Executive Orders. Your work will directly safeguard SMUD's ongoing compliance, operational integrity, and our ability to manage spent nuclear fuel safely and securely at the Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installation (ISFSI) The ideal candidate will lead compliance management, risk mitigation, security access authorization, emergency planning, and system performance efforts, playing a key role in SMUD's ongoing leadership in safety and stewardship within the nuclear industry. If you are passionate about public service, enjoy complex challenges, and want to make a lasting impact at the intersection of nuclear operations and community care, we encourage you to apply and join the SMUD family. Purpose Coordinates the development and implementation of a comprehensive regulatory compliance program for SMUD’s Power Generation assets. Ensures that all necessary documents meet regulatory requirements and serves as the key contact for all compliance-related interactions, both internally and with external agencies. Nature and Scope Oversee regulatory compliance for all power generation assets, including thermal, gas, hydro, and renewables. Provide functional expertise to ensure adherence to standards and regulations. Key responsibilities:
Compliance leadership: Direct, plan and monitor compliance activities across all asset types.
Expertise and direction: Act as a subject matter expert for key regulatory bodies, including FERC, NERC, DSOD, and CEC.
Risk management: Proactively manage compliance issues, adapting to new and revised standards for all assigned areas, including dam safety, gas pipelines, and nuclear operations. Duties and Responsibilities NUCLEAR: Compliance
Ensure operations, physical protection, and security of spent nuclear fuel at the Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installation (ISFSI) comply with Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) requirements (10 CFR 72 and 10 CFR 73.51).
Manage the Access Authorization Program, including personnel background checks and security clearances.
Support the Rancho Seco Quality Control Program.
Monitor and review NRC regulations for changes and updates. Emergency Management and Trainin g
Develop, maintain and update the Emergency Response Plan (ERP) in compliance with NRC, state and local regulations.
Coordinate emergency drills and exercises, collaborating with internal and external agencies.
Ensure the functionality of emergency communication systems.
Serve as the primary liaison for emergency response with external agencies. Procedures and Documentation
Develop and maintain operational procedures and policies that align with NRC requirements and industry best practices.
Manage comprehensive documentation for personnel security, spent fuel inventory, and regulatory inspections and audits.
Maintain accurate and auditable records, including material history and inspection reports. System Performance and Corrective Actions
Lead system upgrades and modifications to ensure continued regulatory compliance.
Collaborate with engineering teams to enhance ISFSI system performance.
Identify and address deficiencies through the Corrective Action Program (CAP), including root-cause analysis.
Performs other related duties as needed; schedules, hours and locations may fluctuate based on business needs. Required Education
Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from an accredited college or university or equivalent experience. Required Experience Qualifications
Five or more (5+) years of progressively responsible relevant work experience in compliance, engineering, maintenance, operation, or construction activities related to power generation or relevant field. Knowledge Of Comprehensive understanding of hydro/dam safety, gas pipeline, NERC, and nuclear regulations, along with proficiency in project and contract management, economic and environmental analysis, and contractor oversight, and electric generation technologies. Skills To Interpersonal Skills
Build and maintain effective working relationships internally and externally.
Influence and coordinate work across departments and with external stakeholders (staff, contractors, consultants).
Motivate and gain cooperation from diverse technical and non-technical teams. Decision Making
Evaluate data, identify key factors, and weigh costs/benefits to make informed decisions.
Resolve complex, multi-priority problems across internal and external entities. Technical Acumen
Interpret regulations and data sources.
Demonstrate strong technical reporting.
Prepare statistical, analytical reports and presentations.
Provide operational training and implement procedural/system improvements.
Utilize relevant software, including standard office applications (SAP, Word, Excel). Communication
Communicate complex information clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing, adapting to the audience.
Demonstrate strong communication and organizational abilities.
Develop and deliver effective oral presentations.
Interpret and assess verbal/written information.
Resolve customer issues and concerns effectively. Desirable Qualifications
Direct experience with NRC rulemaking and regulatory compliance in spent fuel storage and ISFSI operations, or equivalent experience from military or commercial power reactor operations.
Previous participation in emergency management planning, drills, and exercise.
Experience developing, implementing, or managing Access Authorization Programs, including personnel background checks and security clearance.
Proficiency in interpreting and applying 10 CFR Parts 72 and 73.51 regulations and other federal/state nuclear regulatory requirements, or comparable work with procedural standards from military or commercial power reactor operations.
Advanced knowledge of emergency communication systems and technology relevant to nuclear plant or ISFSI operations.
Strong background in quality assurance and quality control programs for nuclear or industrial power assets, including Navy nuclear or engineering program experience.
Demonstrated skill in maintaining accurate, audit-ready records for regulatory inspections and material history in a highly regulated environment, such as commercial nuclear facilities or on Navy nuclear vessels.
Experience from military or commercial power reactor operations with Corrective Action Programs (CAP), root-cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions for compliance-related deficiencies.
Effective liaison experience with federal, state, and local agencies or regulators in compliance-related contexts.
Advanced degree in engineering, health physics, nuclear technology, or a related field; professional certification relevant to nuclear operations (e.g., Certified Nuclear Professional) or
Navy Nuclear Power Program completion. Required Licenses/Certificates
Valid California Drivers License. Physical Requirements Applicants must be able to perform the essential job functions with or without a reasonable accommodation. Hybrid Work This position may be eligible for SMUD's hybrid (office/home) work employee benefit, the schedule of which will be determined by the successful candidate and the Hiring Manager. SMUD takes pride in powering the Sacramento region community where we live and work. We value the strong working relationships we develop with our colleagues. Our approach to hybrid work will continue to evolve. Please be aware that should SMUD’s business needs change, emergencies occur, or various other reasons arise, you may be required to report onsite on a part-time or full-time basis.