How to apply for Regulatory Engineer

About Oklo

Oklo is developing next-generation fast fission reactors and nuclear fuel recycling technology to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy. Unlike traditional nuclear companies, Oklo is focused on deploying small, advanced reactors and closing the fuel cycle, which makes it a unique player in the clean energy transition. Working here means contributing to cutting-edge nuclear innovation with a mission-driven team.

About the role

As a Regulatory Engineer at Oklo, you will be at the forefront of licensing and compliance for advanced nuclear technologies. You'll research and interpret NRC regulations, prepare and review licensing documents, and collaborate with technical teams to ensure designs meet regulatory standards. This role is critical for bringing Oklo's fast fission technology to market and advancing nuclear waste recycling.

A typical day

A typical day might involve researching NRC regulations, drafting sections of a license application, and meeting with engineers to discuss design changes. You'll also review technical documents for regulatory compliance and collaborate with colleagues to refine licensing strategies. Expect a mix of independent writing and cross-functional collaboration in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Who Oklo is looking for

• Has direct experience with NRC license applications or amendments, such as preparing, contributing to, or evaluating them.
• Possesses a strong technical background (e.g., engineering, physics, or related field) and can quickly understand complex reactor designs.
• Is passionate about clean energy, environmental sustainability, and nuclear fuel recycling, and can articulate this passion.
• Demonstrates excellent writing skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and modern regulatory documentation in active voice.

Tips for this application

• Highlight specific NRC licensing experience in your resume and cover letter, including which applications or amendments you worked on and your role.
• Showcase your technical writing by providing a writing sample or describing documents you've authored that required translating technical details for regulatory audiences.
• Research Oklo's reactor designs (e.g., Aurora) and fuel recycling approach, and mention how your skills can support their licensing efforts.
• Emphasize your ability to work cross-functionally with engineers and scientists, as the role requires interfacing with technical staff.
• Use active voice and concise language in your application materials to demonstrate the writing style Oklo values.

What to cover in your cover letter

["Your hands-on experience with NRC license applications or amendments, and how it prepares you to contribute to Oklo's licensing dockets.", "Your passion for clean energy and nuclear fuel recycling, and why Oklo's mission resonates with you.", 'Your technical proficiency and ability to collaborate with design teams to ensure regulatory compliance.', "Your strong writing skills, evidenced by examples of clear, modern regulatory documentation you've produced."]

Research before applying

• Oklo's Aurora reactor design and its intended deployment model, including any recent NRC interactions or licensing milestones.
• Oklo's nuclear fuel recycling technology and how it differs from traditional nuclear fuel cycles.
• The NRC's regulatory framework for advanced reactors, including Part 52 and Part 53, and any recent changes affecting non-light-water reactors.
• Oklo's company culture, values, and recent news or press releases to understand their priorities and challenges.

Likely interview topics

Based on the job description, expect questions about:

• Walk us through your experience with NRC license applications or amendments. What was your specific role and what challenges did you face?
• How do you approach interpreting and applying NRC regulations to novel reactor designs like Oklo's fast fission technology?
• Describe a time you had to review technical material and provide feedback to engineering teams. How did you ensure accuracy and clarity?
• What interests you about Oklo's mission to recycle nuclear waste, and how do you see regulatory engineering contributing to that goal?
• How do you stay current with evolving nuclear regulations and ensure your documentation meets both current and future requirements?

Common mistakes to avoid

• Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention Oklo's specific technology or mission.
• Failing to provide concrete examples of NRC licensing experience, which is a key requirement.
• Using passive voice or overly complex language in writing samples, which contradicts Oklo's preference for modern active voice.