Laser/Vision Systems Operator - Metrology Analyst

Valar Atomics is a nuclear energy company focused on scaling high-temperature gas reactors (HTGRs) for grid-independent industrial applications. The company is developing what it calls gigasites, large-scale facilities housing hundreds of nuclear reactors intended to power heavy industry, data centers, hydrogen production, and clean hydrocarbon fuel synthesis. Their reactor design uses TRISO fuel, a graphite moderator, and helium coolant, a combination the company highlights for its strong safety profile and proliferation resistance. By operating outside the traditional electricity grid, Valar Atomics aims to unlock economies of scale that have historically eluded the nuclear industry. Valar Atomics' mission centers on making nuclear energy the cheapest and most reliable energy source in the world, with a particular emphasis on decarbonizing industrial processes and enabling clean fuel production. Their hydrogen output, generated via a sulfur-iodine thermochemical cycle, can be combined with captured CO2 to produce synthetic hydrocarbons through a modified Fischer-Tropsch process, offering a pathway to drop-in clean fuels. The company also targets the surging power demands of AI data centers, which are projected to require over 200 additional terawatt-hours of grid power by 2030. The company is currently advancing its Ward 250 project, a test reactor being developed in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, the San Rafael Energy Research Center, and the State of Utah, with a target go-live date of July 4, 2026, America's 250th birthday. The reactor has already been physically transported to Emery County, Utah, with logistical support from the U.S. military. Four executive orders issued under the Trump administration provided a mandate supporting the project's accelerated deployment timeline.

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 Team 

The Manufacturing organization transforms engineering designs into high-quality products through precision manufacturing, disciplined execution, and continuous improvement. The team develops scalable production capabilities that support the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology. 

The Role 

Valar Atomics is looking for a Laser / Vision Systems Operator - Metrology Analyst to own dimensional inspection and quality data for components going into our modular nuclear reactor systems. You will operate laser scanning, laser tracker, and machine vision inspection equipment to verify precision parts against engineering specifications, analyze the resulting data, and partner with Manufacturing and Engineering to resolve quality issues. This is a hands-on role critical to ensuring first-of-a-kind hardware meets nuclear-grade tolerances. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Set up and operate laser scanners, laser trackers, and machine vision systems to inspect precision components. 

• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and inspection plans to determine correct measurement approach. 

• Collect, analyze, and report dimensional data; flag non-conformances and support root cause investigations. 

• Maintain and calibrate metrology equipment per established schedules and procedures. 

• Develop and refine inspection programs/routines for new parts and vision system fixtures. 

• Partner with Manufacturing and Engineering to resolve quality issues and improve inspection processes. 

• Maintain accurate inspection records, certifications, and quality documentation. 

Basic Qualifications 

• 3+ years of experience in dimensional inspection, metrology, or quality control in a manufacturing environment. 

• Hands-on experience with laser scanning, laser tracker, CMM, or machine vision inspection systems. 

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and inspection plans. 

• Proficiency with precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges) and metrology software. 

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy and integrity. 

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup manufacturing environment with evolving processes. 

• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs and work in a shop-floor/metrology lab setting with appropriate PPE. 

 Preferred Skills and Experience 

• Experience with laser trackers (e.g., FARO, Leica, Surphaser) and associated software (Verisurf, Polyworks). 

• Experience using mobile metrology equipment to scan large items or parts still on CNC machines to verify tight tolerances  

• Experience programming or operating machine vision inspection systems. 

• ASQ Certified Quality Technician (CQT) or equivalent certification. 

• Experience in nuclear, aerospace, or other highly regulated quality environments. 

• Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC) and GR&R studies. 

What We Offer  

• Competitive base salary 
• Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company 
• Comprehensive medical benefits 
• Unlimited PTO
• Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite 
• Generous PPE stipend
• 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).