Administrative Judge (Technical) - Remote Opportunity with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is seeking distinguished professionals to serve as Administrative Judges (Technical) on the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel. This unique, part-time, intermittent role offers an exceptional opportunity to leverage extensive expertise in engineering and scientific fields to contribute significantly to the regulation of nuclear energy and materials in the United States. If you possess a deep understanding of technical subject matter and a commitment to ensuring public health and environmental safety, this remote position provides a platform to apply your knowledge in a critical national capacity.

About the Agency: Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is an independent federal agency responsible for regulating the civilian use of nuclear materials, ensuring the protection of public health and safety, and promoting the common defense and security. Established in 1974, the NRC oversees the licensing, regulation, and oversight of nuclear power plants, fuel cycle facilities, and the use of radioactive materials in medicine, industry, and research. The agency is committed to scientific excellence, transparency, and a robust safety culture. The NRC values a diverse workforce with professionals from various backgrounds, including industry, academia, and government. They foster an environment of opportunity, leadership, training, teamwork, and work-life balance, encouraging employees to contribute to the nation's nuclear safety.

Job Responsibilities: Shaping Nuclear Regulation

As an Administrative Judge (Technical) with the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel (ASLBP), you will play a pivotal role in the NRC's adjudicatory proceedings. This position is primarily focused on serving as a technical member of three-member Licensing Boards, which are responsible for making critical decisions regarding the issuance, suspension, revocation, or amendment of licenses authorized by the Atomic Energy Act. These proceedings often involve complex issues related to nuclear power plants, advanced technology reactors, license renewals, power uprates, and facilities handling nuclear materials.

Your duties will encompass several key areas:

• Prehearing Activities: Thoroughly examine pleadings and filings, conduct in-depth research on highly technical subject matter, and draft and issue procedural and substantive orders.
• Hearing Activities: Advise the Board Chairperson on matters concerning testimony and evidence, critically question or examine witnesses, evaluate their testimony, and ensure the accuracy and completeness of the hearing record.
• Decision-Making: Analyze the complete hearing record, consider proposed findings of fact and conclusions of law submitted by parties, research legal and technical precedents, and author well-reasoned written decisions and orders.
• Advisory Role: As requested by the Chief Administrative Judge, you may also provide expert advice on regulatory, administrative, and procedural matters pertinent to the NRC's licensing processes, ensuring consistency and adherence to established protocols.

This role demands a blend of deep technical expertise, analytical rigor, and strong decision-making capabilities. You will be an integral part of a panel that ensures the safe and secure use of nuclear technology across the nation.

Requirements: Expertise and Experience

To be considered for this crucial role, applicants must meet specific qualifications:

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Security Clearance: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Q Access Authorization security clearance. This involves a thorough background investigation.
• Trial Period: Successful candidates will undergo a 1-2 year trial period to ensure their suitability and that their continued employment advances the public interest.
• Work Experience: A minimum of 15 years of professional work experience in a field directly related to the ASLBP's adjudicatory work is mandatory. This experience should demonstrate expert and comprehensive knowledge applicable to the board's functions.
• Federal Level Experience: At least one year of this experience must be comparable in complexity and responsibility to the work typically assigned at the Federal Grade 15 level or its equivalent in the private sector.
• Educational Background: Applicants must possess a degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited program or a related scientific field with equivalent professional engineering experience. Alternatively, a Ph.D. degree in a physical science, engineering, or mathematics, which included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, is acceptable. For applicants with a medical degree, an undergraduate degree in a specified scientific field with the required coursework and appropriate experience or additional education is necessary. Transcripts are required to verify educational qualifications.
• Technical Acumen: Comprehensive knowledge and experience in an engineering or scientific field, enabling the ability to understand, interpret, and assimilate complex technical subject matter is essential.
• Decision-Making: Demonstrated ability to make independent, timely, fair, and impartial decisions.
• Communication Skills: Proficiency in oral and written communication is critical. This includes the ability to convey complex technical information clearly, concisely, and persuasively, both in person and in writing. Experience in adjudicatory processes, such as expert witness testimony or report generation, is highly valued.
• Interpersonal Skills: The capacity to work courteously and effectively with diverse individuals in an adversarial or collegial setting, establishing effective working relationships, and fostering cooperation among colleagues is vital.

Preferred Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D./M.D. with at least 10 years of recent, specialized experience beyond the degree. This experience should be well-documented through publications, teaching, public speaking, research, or extensive industry involvement, establishing the applicant as a recognized expert in their field. Furthermore, a proven ability to collaborate effectively and achieve consensus within a team environment is highly desirable.

Salary Overview: Competitive Compensation

This part-time, intermittent position offers competitive hourly compensation. The salary range for this Administrative Judge (Technical) role is between $73.87 and $100.43 per hour, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Benefits: Comprehensive Federal Package

While this is a part-time position, employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of Federal benefits, which may include:

• Health Insurance: Access to federal health insurance plans.
• Life Insurance: Federal life insurance coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Programs for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Dental and Vision Insurance: Options for dental and vision coverage.
• Retirement Savings: Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a retirement savings and investment plan similar to a 401(k).
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual (vacation) leave and paid sick leave.
• Holidays: 11 paid federal holidays per year.
• Family Leave: Family-friendly leave policies.
• Transit Benefits: Assistance with commuting costs.

Application Process: Your Path to Joining the NRC

To apply for this exciting opportunity, please follow these steps carefully:

1. Review the Announcement: Read the entire job announcement and all instructions thoroughly.
2. Online Application: Complete the online application process via USAJOBS.gov. Ensure all required documents are submitted electronically by the closing date.
3. Resume Submission: Craft a detailed resume (limited to two pages) that clearly highlights your qualifications, skills, and experience relevant to the position. Federal employees are encouraged to use the USAJOBS Resume Builder.
4. Vacancy Questions: Answer all vacancy-related questions accurately and completely.
5. Supporting Documents: Upload required documents, including transcripts (if applicable) and two writing samples. These samples should demonstrate your technical expertise and analytical abilities.
6. Eligibility Verification: Submit any additional documentation required to verify your eligibility claims (e.g., veterans' preference, Schedule A status, etc.).
7. Submission Deadline: Ensure your complete application package is submitted by April 26, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).

Note: Paper applications are generally not accepted unless specific hardship circumstances are demonstrated. Contact the agency HR specialist for hardship assistance if needed.

Application Tips for Success

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to mirror the language and requirements of the job announcement. Emphasize experience in nuclear engineering, radiological sciences, environmental impact assessment, or related technical fields.
• Highlight Achievements: Instead of just listing duties, focus on quantifiable achievements and the impact of your work. Use action verbs and provide context for your responsibilities.
• Writing Samples Matter: Select writing samples that best showcase your ability to analyze complex technical issues, structure arguments logically, and communicate findings clearly and persuasively. Ensure they are your original work.
• Complete All Sections: Thoroughly answer all questions in the online application and questionnaire. Incomplete applications are often disqualified.
• Review Before Submitting: Double-check all uploaded documents for accuracy, completeness, and proper formatting. Ensure names and dates align with your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the nature of the Administrative Judge (Technical) position?	This is a part-time, intermittent role serving on the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board Panel. Responsibilities include reviewing technical filings, conducting research, advising on proceedings, questioning witnesses, and authoring written decisions for licensing cases involving nuclear power and materials.
What specific technical fields are most sought after?	Expertise is highly sought in nuclear and radiological engineering, environmental sciences/engineering, geology/hydrology/civil engineering, nuclear materials, nuclear waste, and health physics. Exceptional candidates in related scientific or engineering disciplines will also be considered.
What is the minimum experience required?	A minimum of 15 years of relevant professional work experience is required. A preferred candidate will have a Ph.D./M.D. with at least 10 years of specialized post-doctoral experience demonstrating expert knowledge in a field applicable to the ASLBP's work.
Is this a remote position?	Yes, the position is advertised as 'Anywhere in the U.S. (remote job)', offering significant flexibility in work location.
What is the hourly pay rate?	The compensation for this role ranges from $73.87 to $100.43 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience.
What documentation must I submit with my application?	You must submit a resume (max 2 pages), answers to vacancy questions, two writing samples, and transcripts if education is a qualification requirement. Additional documents like SF-50s or DD-214s may be needed for specific eligibility claims.
When is the application deadline?	Applications must be submitted electronically by April 26, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Do I need a security clearance for this role?	Yes, a Q Access Authorization security clearance is required. The NRC will conduct a thorough background investigation, including suitability and security checks, as part of the hiring process.
Can I apply if I have resided outside the U.S. for an extended period?	Extended periods of residence outside the U.S. may impact the ability to obtain the necessary security clearance or a temporary waiver (145(b) waiver) in a timely manner, potentially affecting eligibility for continued employment.

The Administrative Judge (Technical) position at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission represents a distinguished opportunity for experienced technical experts to contribute to national safety and regulatory oversight. This remote, part-time role allows you to apply your specialized knowledge in a challenging and rewarding capacity. If you are ready to make a significant impact on the future of nuclear energy and materials regulation, we encourage you to submit your application and become a vital part of the NRC's mission.