Procurement Specialist

Employment Type: [Not specified] Location Type: [Not specified] Salary: [Not specified]

Position Overview

Oklo is seeking a mid-level Procurement Specialist to join our Products Division team. This role is crucial for managing and overseeing the procurement of design, construction, commodities, and service-related contracts. The primary focus is on ensuring compliance with procurement regulations, negotiating favorable terms, and supporting timely project delivery. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in procurement processes, particularly within the construction industry, complemented by exceptional analytical and communication skills. Experience in the nuclear industry and familiarity with nuclear quality assurance standards are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Contract Preparation and Initiation

• Develop, issue, and manage Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Purchase Orders (PO), Master Service Agreements (MSA) and related Task Orders, as well as other procurement documents.
• Evaluate and negotiate terms with vendors, ensuring alignment with project requirements and budgets.
• Draft and finalize construction contracts in collaboration with legal and project management teams.

Vendor and Stakeholder Management

• Identify, prequalify, and maintain a database of qualified construction contractors and suppliers.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors, ensuring their compliance with contract terms and performance standards.
• Serve as a point of contact for stakeholders during the procurement phase to address questions and resolve issues.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure all procurement activities comply with organizational policies, legal requirements, and industry standards.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to procurement processes and contract management.
• Monitor contractor performance and adherence to contractual obligations, with a focus on maintaining high standards of nuclear quality assurance where applicable.

Market Analysis and Cost Control

• Conduct market research to assess trends, pricing, and supplier capabilities within the construction and nuclear industries.
• Analyze bids and proposals, ensuring value for money and alignment with project objectives.
• Collaborate with project teams to ensure procurement aligns with budgetary constraints and timelines.

Reporting and Documentation

• Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation for audit and reporting purposes.
• Prepare regular reports on procurement activities, progress, and cost analysis for senior management.

Competencies

The ideal candidate will possess:

• A strong understanding of construction industry standards, regulations, and procurement processes.
• The ability to implement end-to-end integrated/controlled procurement and supply chain management.
• Familiarity with nuclear quality assurance requirements (e.g., NQA-1) is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with diverse stakeholders.
• Passion for making advanced fission a reality.
• Willingness and ability to learn quickly.
• Comfort in a fast-paced, highly iterative startup environment.
• Enthusiasm for creative, critical, and reflective thinking about problems, moving beyond traditional approaches.
• Willingness to propose novel and creative solutions to technical problems.
• Excellent writing skills, capable of composing in a modern active voice.
• Ability to communicate technical content and results verbally.

Experience Level

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in procurement, with a desired focus on construction contracts.
• Proven experience in contract drafting, negotiation, and vendor management.
• Experience in the nuclear industry or with projects requiring nuclear quality assurance is highly desirable.

Application Instructions

Please ensure your cover letter is compelling and well-written, demonstrating your ability to communicate technical content and results verbally and in writing.