Head of Nuclear & Radiation Protection Department

Job Title

The Head of Nuclear & Radiation Protection Department is responsible for overseeing and directing all activities related to nuclear and radiation safety, security, and regulatory compliance. This role involves providing strategic leadership for the department, ensuring effective implementation of nuclear and radiation policies, and managing the operational aspects of the department. The Head of the Department will coordinate with both the Nuclear & Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security & Safeguards Divisions to ensure that all regulations, standards, safety protocols, and safeguards obligations are adhered to and that nuclear and radiation practices meet national and international standards.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership

  • Provide strategic direction and leadership for the Nuclear & Radiation Department, ensuring alignment with RURA’s mission, national policies, and international standards.
  • Develop and implement departmental strategies, objectives, and policies related to nuclear and radiation safety, security, and safeguards.
  • Ensure the department’s activities support RURA’s overall goals and regulatory framework for nuclear and radiation protection management.
  • Assess needs of the Department, make procurement plans, and ensure effective delivery of procured items.
  • Prepare and compile needs for technical equipment for regulatory works in close collaboration with division managers.

• Regulatory Oversight

  • Oversee the development and enforcement of regulations, guidelines, requirements, and protocols related to nuclear and radiation safety, security, and safeguards.
  • Ensure compliance with national and international regulatory requirements and best practices in the nuclear and radiation protection sector.
  • Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to address regulatory issues and implement necessary changes in policies, legal, and regulatory frameworks.
  • Provide technical expertise regarding emergency preparedness issues and interpretations.
  • Conducts and coordinates Regulatory Authority intervention programs for response to incidents, accidents, and emergencies and is the emergency preparedness and incident response interface with the Ministry of Emergency Management and other concerned Agencies and Authorities.

• Division Management

  • Supervise the Division Managers for Nuclear & Radiation Safety and Nuclear Security & Safeguards, providing guidance, support, and oversight for their respective functions.
  • Ensure effective collaboration between the two divisions to address all aspects of nuclear and radiation protection management, including safety protocols, nuclear security and radioactive physical protection measures, waste management, and emergency response procedures.
  • Review and approve division reports, plans, and budgets, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and departmental objectives are met.
  • Provide direction and coordination of general administrative matters, and information management and technology functions and responsibilities delegated to his/her office.

• Safety and Security Management

  • Ensure that nuclear and radiation activities within the jurisdiction are conducted safely and securely in line with policies in place and in compliance with established legal and regulatory frameworks; oversee the implementation of safety and security measures to protect public health, the environment, and critical infrastructure from radiation hazards and security threats.
  • Oversee preparedness with regard to any nuclear and radiological incidents and/or accidents.
  • Develop emergency preparedness policies, regulations, programs, and guidelines for both currently licensed nuclear and radiation facilities and potential new facilities.
  • Provides technical expertise regarding emergency preparedness issues and interpretations.
  • Conducts and coordinates Regulatory Authority intervention programs for response to incidents, accidents, and emergencies and is the emergency preparedness and incident response interface with the Ministry of Emergency Management and other concerned Agencies and Authorities.
  • Oversee all regulatory investigations and reports pertaining to incidents and accidents events.

• Policy Development and Implementation

  • Develop and revise internal policies, procedures, and guidelines for nuclear and radiation safety, security, and safeguards, based on emerging trends, regulatory updates, and best practices.
  • Ensure that all internal policies are effectively communicated and implemented across the department and relevant stakeholders.
  • Review and recommend general administrative procedures. Provide independent review of office policy papers and issues to ensure completeness, promptness, accuracy, and adherence to the Regulatory Authority.

• Stakeholder Engagement

  • Plan and direct Regulatory Authority programs of cooperation and liaison with International Bodies, local government Institutions, domestic organizations, and Agencies for all matters with regard to Nuclear and Radiation Protection.
  • Engage with government agencies, industry stakeholders, and international organizations to promote collaboration and information sharing on nuclear and radiation protection issues.
  • Represent RURA in meetings, forums, and negotiations related to nuclear and radiation safety, security, and safeguards, advocating for the interests of the organization and promoting best practices.

• Risk Management

  • Identify, assess, and manage risks associated with nuclear and radiation activities, including safety, security, safeguards, and environmental risks.
  • Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies and contingency plans to address potential threats and vulnerabilities.

• Resource Management

  • Oversee the allocation and management of resources within the Nuclear & Radiation Protection Department, including budget, personnel, and equipment.
  • Ensure that the department operates efficiently and effectively, with a focus on achieving strategic objectives and maintaining high standards of performance.

• Reporting and Documentation

  • Prepare and present reports to the Director General, government officials, and other stakeholders on departmental activities, performance, and regulatory compliance.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records related to nuclear and radiation safety, security, and safeguards, including incident reports, regulatory filings, and safety and security assessments.

Requirements

• Education and Experience

  • Minimum of a Master’s degree in Nuclear/Radiation Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Radiation Protection and Safety, Nuclear Power Plant Engineering, or related Nuclear and Radiation Studies with a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in nuclear and radiation regulatory management.
  • Having completed a professional course in radiation safety or nuclear regulatory affairs is an added advantage.

• Skills and Competencies

  • Strong knowledge of nuclear and radiation safety, security, and safeguards legal and regulatory frameworks, and best practices.
  • Proven leadership and management skills, with the ability to guide and motivate a team, manage complex projects, and make strategic decisions.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders, government officials, and industry representatives.
  • Experience in the analysis of protection and the investigation of acts involving nuclear and radioactive material.
  • Excellent knowledge of relevant national and international legal instruments pertaining to nuclear and radiological procedures.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess risks, develop solutions, and implement effective strategies.
  • Commitment to safety, security, safeguards, and regulatory compliance, with a focus on protecting public health and the environment.

How to Apply

Applicants must be Rwandan nationals, in accordance with the applicable legal provisions governing public service recruitment.

• An application letter addressed to the Director General Required
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) Required
• Copies of academic qualifications. Required
• Copy of identity card or passport. Required
• Notarized service certificate(s) from current and/or previous employer(s) must be provided to substantiate the number of years of experience, particularly in managerial positions. In addition, a recommendation letter from the most recent employer is required. Required
• Signed reference letters from at least three (3) referees listed in the applicant’s Curriculum Vitae (CV) must be submitted. Required