Richard A. Smith
Nuclear Reactor Operator
Goose Creek,SC
Summary
Experienced Navy nuclear-trained technician specializing in reactor operations, instrumentation & control systems, and high-reliability engineering environments. Proven track record as Reactor Control Division Leading Petty Officer on the USS OREGON, overseeing preventive maintenance, startup/shutdowns, and technical training. Skilled in operating and maintaining complex nuclear systems to strict procedural standards. Experienced Reactor Operator with a background in student advising and guidance, fostering academic success and personal development. Seeking opportunities in the commercial nuclear industry to contribute to safe, compliant, and efficient power generation. Effective communicator with a talent for building rapport with diverse student populations and staff.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
2014
2014
years of post-secondary education
5
5
Certifications
Work History
Dedicated Student Advisor
Nuclear Power Training Unit (NPTU)
Goose Creek, South Carolina
08.2022 - Current
- Company Overview: United States Navy
- Selected as the first-ever Dedicated Student Advisor for the Department of Students initiative, overseeing mentorship and academic development programs.
- Provided personalized technical guidance and career counseling to students, ensuring a 100% success rate in student retention and qualification progress.
- Implemented structured training programs that enhanced student performance, reinforcing core technical competencies in nuclear power operations and instrumentation control.
- Developed new mentorship strategies, creating a standardized framework that improved training efficiency and qualification timelines.
- United States Navy
- Developed strong relationships with staff members, fostering an environment of collaboration in support of student goals.
Reactor Control Division Leading Petty Officer
USS OREGON
Groton, CT
04.2017 - 07.2022
- Company Overview: United States Navy
- Operated and maintained reactor instrumentation and control systems, executing safe, compliant nuclear operations aligned with NRC-equivalent standards.
- Served as Primary Propulsion Plant Operator, leading startup/shutdowns and executing first-time procedures such as Rod Testing and Time-Response Testing.
- Supervised and qualified junior operators through over 200 preventive maintenance actions and real-time troubleshooting of plant systems.
- Partnered with General Dynamics to coordinate Builder’s Sea Trials and achieve full propulsion readiness, mirroring civilian commissioning efforts.
- Designed and managed training pipelines: authored qualification exams, drills, and oral boards for over 120 operators.
- Led post-construction testing and fleet support exercises, contributing to operational readiness and successful completion of the Post Operational Reactor Safeguards Examination (PORSE).
- Streamlined daily operations for improved efficiency through the development of standard operating procedures.
- Boosted morale within the division by actively promoting a positive work environment and addressing concerns promptly.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Immaculata University
Malvern, United StatesSkills
Reactor Plant Operations
Reactor Control Systems
Commercial-Relevant Nuclear Safety
Compliance
Preventive Maintenance
Corrective Maintenance
Critical Systems
Qualification Programs
Operator Training
Team Leadership
Watchstanding Oversight
Emergency Response
Casualty Response Procedures
Leadership qualities
Career counseling
Academic advising
Certification
Master Training Specialist (MTS) – U.S. Navy
Timeline
Dedicated Student Advisor
Nuclear Power Training Unit (NPTU)
08.2022 - Current
Reactor Control Division Leading Petty Officer
USS OREGON
04.2017 - 07.2022
Bachelor of Science - Biology
Immaculata University