Associate Laboratory Director (ALD) for the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR)
About the role
The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is seeking an Associate Laboratory Director (ALD) for the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) to join their senior leadership team. ATR is a critical national capability with a validated mission need through at least 2085, serving as a cornerstone for the U.S. Navy's Naval Reactors program, advanced fuel qualification, and next-generation reactor development.
Responsibilities
Develop and execute a forward-looking integrated strategy ensuring ATR maintains world leadership in irradiated materials and nuclear fuels research capabilities.
Lead multidisciplinary research teams advancing nuclear energy, national security, and emerging reactor concepts, including molten salt, sodium, and microreactor technologies.
Shape and deliver an innovation agenda integrating advanced instrumentation, digital engineering, and next-generation experimental platforms.
Collaborate and partner with peer ALDs across INL directorates — Nuclear Science & Technology, EES&T, N&HS, and MFC — to achieve a unified science and technology strategy for the Laboratory.
Collaborate and partner with peer Management and Operations Executive Directors to achieve unified Laboratory strategies and objectives.
Provide leadership ensuring safe, secure, and environmentally compliant operations across ATR and all associated facilities.
Oversee long-term lifecycle planning, modernization, infrastructure renewal, and resilience for aging reactor systems and mission-critical capabilities.
Champion INL's Integrated Safety Management System (ISMS) and hold workforce accountable for maintaining all research and operational activities within the approved safety envelope.
Achieve or exceed published reactor milestones.
Build, lead, and develop an engaged, high-performing research and operations workforce grounded in INL's mission, values, and expectations.
Develop, maintain, and lead a robust human capital management plan, including succession planning, talent development, and performance management across all ATR divisions.
Ensure ATR is adequately staffed with trained personnel, provided appropriate development opportunities, and consistently rewarded for performance.
Foster an inclusive, engaged, innovative, and safety-centric culture.
Develop and execute a financial model that supports the ATR mission within defined cost, scope, schedule, and regulatory requirements, while continuously implementing cost efficiency initiatives.
Set strategy and allocate resources within approved budgets for business development efforts and strategic initiatives.
Lead and monitor performance against contractual measures, laboratory strategic objectives, and stewardship assignments.
Serve as INL's institutional lead for major ATR stakeholders including DOE Nuclear Energy (NE-3), Naval Reactors, NNSA, NASA, academia, and industry.
Represent INL and ATR across national and international forums, including preparation of presentations, briefings, and senior-level correspondence.
Build and sustain trusted, long-term partnerships with current and prospective customers, communicating the value of ATR's unique capabilities to senior national stakeholders.
Qualifications
Master’s degree in Engineering or related science and a minimum of 15 years of demonstrated leadership experience in nuclear reactor management.
Demonstrated ability to develop a strategy and implementation plan to achieve long-term mission goals.
Proven ability to lead large technical organizations, build strategic partnerships, and inspire multidisciplinary teams.
Expertise in nuclear R&D, reactor operations, materials science, or related fields.
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain required DOE “Q” clearance (US Citizenship required).
Ideal candidates will possess experience engaging with DOE, Naval Reactors, NNSA, NRC or other federal nuclear stakeholders, familiarity with DOE laboratory or similar operating frameworks and federal budget and planning cycles, and experience operating within or leading organizations subject to nuclear safety and security regulatory requirements.
Benefits and Relocation
Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
Paid time off (personal leave)
Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
Comprehensive Relocation Package
Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.
Job Information
Pay Range: $420,000 - $490,000
Compensation decisions at Idaho National Laboratory are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.
This position is eligible to participate in BEA's incentive compensation program.
About Us
Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities, and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.