Section Head, Research Reactor Safety Section

Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that works to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent its use for military purposes. Established in 1957, the IAEA has a mission to ensure that nuclear energy is used safely and securely, protecting people and the environment from radiation exposure. The organization operates in over 170 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,500 employees. The IAEA's work encompasses a wide range of activities, including nuclear safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, technical cooperation, and the promotion of nuclear science and technology for sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Section Head of the Research Reactor Safety Section is responsible for leading and managing the section's activities related to the safety of research reactors and fuel cycle facilities. This position involves developing and implementing the IAEA's policies and programs in this area, ensuring that the organization's objectives are met on a global scale. The Section Head will work closely with Member States to enhance their capabilities in applying IAEA safety standards and will be involved in various technical and managerial tasks, including safety reviews, education and training initiatives, and the development of safety standards. The role requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Section Head will be responsible for planning, initiating, developing, implementing, guiding, coordinating, and supervising the activities of the Research Reactor Safety Section. Key responsibilities include providing technical and managerial leadership, enhancing Member States' capabilities in safety standards application, coordinating education and training efforts, organizing scientific meetings, and maintaining contacts with relevant scientific communities. The Section Head will also lead the development and publication of safety standards, manage complex safety review missions, and analyze information to enhance the Section's program capabilities. Additionally, the role involves providing specialized technical input to technical cooperation projects and ensuring effective communication of the IAEA's vision and mission.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in engineering or physical/nuclear sciences, with a Bachelor's degree considered in combination with additional relevant professional experience. A minimum of 10 years of experience in nuclear installation design, operation, or regulatory oversight is required, including at least 4 years at an international level and 5 years in a senior position. Proven leadership in managing technical programs and multidisciplinary teams is essential, along with experience in developing nuclear regulations and implementing IAEA safety standards. Strong scientific communication skills and stakeholder engagement experience are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree) in engineering or physical/nuclear sciences. A Bachelor's degree may be considered if combined with two additional years of relevant professional experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of nuclear safety and the technical aspects of research reactors and fuel cycle facilities.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant experience, with a significant portion of that time spent in international settings. This experience should include a minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role, demonstrating advanced expertise in research reactor and fuel cycle safety. Experience in delivering international safety review missions and managing technical programs is highly desirable, as is experience in capacity-building and training coordination.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written command of English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is considered an asset and is preferred for effective communication within the organization and with Member States.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $101,540, along with a variable post adjustment, dependency benefits, rental subsidy, education grant, and relocation expenses. Employees are entitled to 6 weeks of annual leave, home leave travel, and benefits such as a pension plan and health insurance. The IAEA is committed to gender equality and diversity in its workforce, encouraging applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries. The appointment is subject to a satisfactory medical report, and staff members may be assigned to any location as per the IAEA's rotation policy.