DIRECTOR, REACTOR OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE

About McMaster University

Ranked as one of the world’s top 70 universities, McMaster University is known for teaching and research excellence. Our purpose is the discovery, communication, and preservation of knowledge. We seek to create a Brighter World through research, focussed on the health and well-being of all. Through our teaching, research, and scholarship, we are committed to creativity, innovation, and excellence. We value integrity, quality, inclusiveness, and teamwork in everything we do. We inspire critical thinking, personal growth, and a passion for lifelong learning. We serve the social, cultural, and economic needs of our community and our society. 

About the McMaster Nuclear Reactor
The McMaster Nuclear Reactor (MNR) has an international reputation as one of the world’s most innovative university-based research reactors and a major supplier of medical isotopes.  It plays a critical role in the re-emerging Canadian nuclear community by enabling national programs in nuclear engineering and small modular reactor development, materials science, and medical isotope research.

As the only research reactor in the world operating without government subsidies and funding, unique challenges exist to ensure the reactor is operated and maintained in a cost effective and sustainable manner.

New Leadership Opportunity

McMaster is seeking a Director, Reactor Operations and Maintenance to lead the transition to a 24 hours per day operation at a higher power, embark on a major aging management plan to ensure safe continued operations while leading the growth of scientific and nuclear engineering research-based applications and the user base of the nuclear facility. The incumbent will drive overall strategic planning, budgeting, and management for the MNR. 

As a new leadership role with a tremendous opportunity for growth, the incumbent will have autonomy to shape their own career path and build strong connections to McMaster’s academic and research community. This role plays an integral part in delivering on McMaster’s strategic priorities and four critical areas of focus which include environmental, health, materials and nuclear. The incumbent will be part of an inclusive and collaborative working environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and curiosity.

Core Accountabilities

In a collaborative team environment which embraces the values of integrity, teamwork, and inclusivity, the Director will serve as an organizational leader and is expected to:

• Nuclear Operations Leadership – Ensure the safe, secure and effective operation of the McMaster Nuclear Reactor.  Develop strategic plan(s) for the McMaster Nuclear Reactor to ensure successful completion of short- and long-term goals and objectives.

• Research and Education – Support research and education through the provision of staff support, facilities, equipment, scheduling, and technical and administrative support. This is the primary purpose of the nuclear and related activities at McMaster University and priority support is provided to McMaster University departments.
• Commercial Products and Services – Collaborate and support other key university stakeholders and private sector partners to translate new market opportunities into commercial realities utilizing MNR.  Develop and execute facility modifications, operating cycles and strategies which deliver customer demands while balancing research and educational priorities.
• Legislation and Regulations – Act as the primary liaison/ Single Point of Contact (SPOC) for federal agencies responsible for implementation of legislation and issue of licences related to MNR and specifically the Class 1 Non-Power Reactor Operating Licence. Ensures that best practices are implemented in all safety and control areas.
• Human Resources - Recruit, manage, and retain staff in a highly specialized and competitive field. Provide direct supervision for 4 managers and 3 staff and indirect supervision for an additional ~ 30 employees. Foster outstanding teamwork and motivation and provide strong leadership to the team while creating a safe, inclusive and respectful work environment
• Stakeholder Relationship Management – Act as the point of contact for various internal and external stakeholders. Manage divergent / competing stakeholder requests and expectations to maximize the University’s reputation.

Are you the right candidate?

This role requires a minimum of 8 years of progressive leadership experience in nuclear operations or maintenance; as well as at least five years in a management role. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree or higher in nuclear engineering or science (or a related field) and the following qualifications:

• A proven leader with demonstrated experience achieving positive results managing teams of experts and complex projects in a nuclear environment. In this role, you will harness your superior leadership competencies and strong communication skills in order to develop collaborative relationships with a diverse group of constituents.

• Industry qualifications demonstrating working knowledge of reactor physics, radiation safety, operating policies and procedures, supervision of licenced personnel, and safety culture.
• Knowledge of national and international statutes and regulations pertaining to the operation of nuclear facilities.

Important Considerations

• The position requires an excessive amount of travel domestically and internationally (minimum of 1 month/annum) to meet with regulators, international customers, and industry colleagues.
• The position requires frequent on-call duties and the incumbent will serve in a leadership role in the emergency response team for the University’s nuclear facilities.