Position SummaryThe Prin. Operations Instructor is a leader for operations training programs and provides expertise for the analysis, design, development, implementation and evaluation of operator training. Delivery of training occurs in a variety of settings with other instructors and other groups in accordance with the accredited training processes and all-applicable codes and regulations. The Prin. Operations Instructor evaluates trainee performance on-the-job and in the simulator, and implements SAT process for the Operations training programs. May include initial and continuing training for all Operations personnel. The Principal Operations Instructor serves as an instructional leader and role model within the nuclear training department, ensuring the quality, consistency, and regulatory compliance of training programs while providing oversight and mentoring to other instructors. This role emphasizes leadership skills, technical excellence, instructional leadership, and operational coordination-not tenure.
Essential Responsibilities- Leads program development t and conducts training in the classroom and/or simulator for all operator training programs including non-licensed operator, licensed operator, Shift Manager and Shift Technical Advisor training per NRC requirements. Develop and administer examinations for all operator training programs. Mentor staff in the analysis, design, development, implementation, evaluation strategies, facilitation techniques, and maintenance of training programs. Coordinate daily activities of instructors, including task assignments, schedule management, and resource allocation. Lead curriculum development and updates to ensure alignment with NRC, INPO, and ACAD 21-001 standards. Conduct observations in all settings and evaluations for instructors. Support supervisory functions on a limited and/or short-term basis as assigned by the manager.
- Analyze programs, operational experience and designs training for all operations training programs including non-licensed operator, licensed operator, Shift Manager and Shift Technical Advisor training. Leads Assist with self-assessments and other evaluations of the various operator training programs. Validate technical content and instructional methods to maintain training effectiveness and compliance. Ensure training addresses job performance requirements and supports safe, reliable plant operation. Lead corrective actions for training deficiencies, including causal analysis and documentation.
- Continuously pursues personnel development, learning and qualifications to support the various operator training programs such as general instructor, simulator booth operator, SRO Certification, and simulator floor instructor. Once qualified, maintain SRO Certification to support instructional needs. Serve as a peer leader and role model, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Coordinate daily activities of instructors, including task assignments, schedule management, and resource allocation. Provide performance feedback and support professional development. Conduct observations in all settings and evaluations for instructors.
- Leads the training department in developing programs to support of the safe operations of the plant by exercising expertise in operations; Supports plant refueling outages by transitioning to the plant staff during lengthy outages and / or Assists with in-processing for the large number of contract employees for plant outages; participates as a member of the site Emergency Response Organization (ERO) as needed. Monitor training effectiveness through performance indicators, trainee feedback, and post-training evaluations. Ensure training records, qualification files, and accreditation documentation are accurate and audit-ready. Support accreditation efforts and participate in internal and external evaluations. Represent the training department in cross-functional meetings and planning sessions. Champion innovation in instructional delivery and student centric learning (for example, simulation, e-learning, and scenario-based training). Stay current with industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices in nuclear training. Lead initiatives to improve training efficiency, engagement, and outcomes. Support supervisory functions on a limited and/or short-term basis as assigned by the manager.
Minimum Requirements- High-school diploma or GED is required. Associate's degree from a two-year college or technical school or equivalent work experience is required. Military or commercial nuclear experience is considered equivalent on a 1:1 basis. Bachelor's degree preferred.
- Requires 10 or more years of related work experience, including 5 years of training related experience. Any combination of instructional experience, providing training/education in a related technical discipline and comparable journeyman/military experience.
- Demonstrated instructional capability and leadership in a nuclear training environment.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the demonstrated ability to lead peers and influence outcomes.
- Deep technical knowledge of nuclear plant systems, operations, and regulatory requirements.
- Commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence.
- Requires National Academy of Nuclear Training (NANT) instructor qualification. Previous power plant or Nuclear Navy background is preferred.
- Must be fluent in SAT principles and familiar with applicable regulatory requirements associated with the assigned discipline. Must be familiar with requirements to maintain accreditation of the maintenance and technical training programs.
- Ability to obtain and maintain unescorted access to nuclear power plant is required.
Non-Bargaining
The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $112,200.00 to $159,400.00 per year
This position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave
Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.
In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Deadline to Apply: 07/28/26
