Construction Manager

Blykalla is building its first reactor in the United States at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), the US Department of Energy's leading nuclear research site. We're looking for an experienced Construction Manager to define and own how we engage with contractors and shape our construction strategy as we move from early design into execution.

This is a rare opportunity to join a first-of-a-kind nuclear project at an early stage where every decision you make will define how we deliver safe, high-quality infrastructure that supports one of the most ambitious clean energy builds underway.

Our US program, Fjäll, is targeting first criticality in 2027/2028 and is backed by ~EUR 50M in funding. We are building this program from the ground up which means every hire is foundational.

Your assignment and mission

As Construction Manager, you will own the contracting strategy and contractor interface for the Fjäll program from the owner’s side. You’ll ensure the right contractors are engaged, contracts protect the owner’s position, and scope packages are clearly defined, cost-disciplined, and aligned with nuclear quality requirements.

This is a first-wave hire. You will build the contracting function from the ground up, work directly with the Program Director, and shape how Fjäll engages with contractors for the life of the program.

- Contracting Strategy & Framework

Define and lead the construction contracting strategy, selecting the right model (EPC, hybrid, phased, or ECI) based on risk, project stage, and execution goals.

- Contractor Engagement & Governance

Lead early contractor engagement across Pre-FEED and FEED, including RFPs, qualification, bid evaluation, and ongoing contractor management.

- Scope Ownership & Boundary Control

Define and enforce nuclear vs. non-nuclear scope boundaries, prevent QA classification creep, and oversee commercial grade dedication for construction scope.

- Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with Engineering and Program Leadership to translate design requirements into clear, executable contractor scopes aligned with the schedule.

- Risk & Performance Management

Own cost estimates, change control, and contractor invoices. Maintain risk registers and escalate key risks to the Program Director.

What We’re Looking For

Must have

- Significant experience managing construction and contractors on complex capital projects

- Degree in Civil, Mechanical, Construction Management, or similar

- Strong commercial understanding of contract structures (EPC, ECI, LSTK, T&M, etc.)

- Proven ability to control scope, costs, and execution in early-stage programs

- Comfortable operating in a build-from-scratch, founder-stage environment

- Strong communication skills, able to translate complex issues for executive and regulatory audiences

- US work authorization

Strong advantage

- Experience in nuclear or other highly regulated industries (e.g. oil & gas, aerospace, defense, large infrastructure)

- Familiarity with nuclear scope classification, NQA-1, and commercial grade dedication

If you're not sure you meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply

About Blykalla

Blykalla is developing the next generation of nuclear technology with our Small Modular Reactor (SMR) based on innovative fuel, materials, and reactor designs. As Sweden's only SMR developer, we are on a mission to decarbonize industries and enable safe, scalable, and sustainable energy solutions. Our technology uses uranium nitride fuel and lead coolant, creating novel challenges and opportunities for the fuel cycle and supporting systems.

Location

Austin, TX, with regular travel to Idaho Falls, ID.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package reflecting the seniority and strategic importance of this role.

Base salary: $150,000–$200,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and background

In addition, you can expect:

- Equity participation

- Comprehensive benefits through Deel, including medical, dental, and vision insurance and 401(k)

The salary range reflects our target bands for Idaho Falls and Austin. The final offer will be determined based on qualifications and location.

So, what do you think?

Joining our team means being part of a pioneering effort to build the first advanced lead-cooled SMR in the United States at one of the DOE's most significant research sites. You will work at the intersection of nuclear technology, complex contracting, and construction execution, with real impact on how this project is delivered.

If you are ready to build something that matters, apply now.

We are proud to foster an inclusive workplace free from discrimination. We strongly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and background makes us better and we encourage everyone to apply.

We do not accept applications via email.