Lead Mechanical Technician

About Valar Atomics

At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable—unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.

The Role

We're seeking a highly skilled Lead Mechanical Technician with a strong background in process or chemical plant operations. This role is critical to leading a team of technicians and ensuring the efficient and safe operation of high-pressure gas systems, piping, and vessels. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience managing complex water systems and pump operations, and combines hands-on technical depth with the leadership skills to develop a team and partner closely with engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise a team of mechanical technicians to ensure optimal performance and safety.
• Oversee the maintenance and operation of high-pressure gas systems, piping, and vessels.
• Diagnose mechanical issues and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to improve system efficiency and reliability.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and procedures.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities and equipment performance.

You Will Be Successful in This Role If

• You lead from the front, setting clear standards for safety, quality, and accountability across your team.
• You bring strong technical judgment to high-pressure gas systems, piping, and vessels, and you know what matters functionally versus cosmetically.
• You diagnose issues quickly and methodically, balancing speed with thoroughness to keep systems running.
• You communicate clearly with engineering partners and surface problems early when something is unrealistic or unsafe.
• You maintain disciplined documentation and records, treating accurate maintenance history as the foundation of reliable operations.
• You develop the technicians on your team, raising the capability of the group over time.

Basic Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in a process or chemical plant environment.
• Proven experience leading and managing a team of technicians.
• Strong knowledge of high-pressure gas systems and their maintenance.
• Experience with piping and vessel operations.
• Expertise in water systems management, including pumps and circulators.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Two references from prior employers and two references from members of teams the applicant has led.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience in nuclear, power generation, oil and gas, or other safety-critical industries.
• Familiarity with formal maintenance management systems (CMMS) and reliability engineering practices.
• Experience supporting commissioning and startup of new mechanical systems.

What We Offer  

• Competitive base salary 
• Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company 
• Comprehensive medical benefits 
• Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite 
• High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy 
• Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement 
• Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders 
• The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).