Prin Operation Instructor

Xcel Energy·Monticello, MN, 55362·Posted July 2026

Nuclear industryUS only

About this role

Principal Operations Instructor at Xcel Energy leads nuclear operator training programs across classroom and simulator settings. This instructional leadership role develops curricula, mentors instructors, and ensures training compliance with NRC, INPO, and regulatory standards while maintaining operational excellence.

Responsibilities

—Lead program development and conduct training in classroom and simulator settings for non-licensed operator, licensed operator, Shift Manager, and Shift Technical Advisor programs per NRC requirements
—Develop and administer examinations for all operator training programs
—Mentor staff in analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation of training programs; facilitate instructor development in techniques and program maintenance
—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 and evaluations of instructors across all training settings
—Analyze operational experience and design training to address job performance requirements and support safe plant operation
—Lead corrective actions for training deficiencies including causal analysis and documentation
—Validate technical content and instructional methods to maintain training effectiveness and compliance
—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
—Serve as peer leader and role model, fostering culture of accountability and continuous improvement
—Support plant refueling outages by transitioning to plant staff and/or assisting with contract employee in-processing
—Participate in site Emergency Response Organization (ERO) as needed
—Represent training department in cross-functional meetings and planning sessions
—Champion innovation in instructional delivery and student-centric learning including 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 limited and/or short-term basis as assigned
—Pursue personnel development and qualifications including general instructor, simulator booth operator, SRO Certification, and simulator floor instructor

Qualifications

—High school diploma or GED
—Associate's degree from two-year college or technical school, or equivalent work experience (military or commercial nuclear experience considered on 1:1 basis)
—10+ years of related work experience, including 5 years of training-related experience
—Demonstrated instructional capability and leadership in nuclear training environment
—Strong interpersonal and communication skills with 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
—National Academy of Nuclear Training (NANT) instructor qualification
—Fluency in SAT (Systematic Approach to Training) principles and familiarity with applicable regulatory requirements
—Familiarity with requirements to maintain accreditation of maintenance and technical training programs
—Ability to obtain and maintain unescorted access to nuclear facilities