Jacob Smith

Project Manager | Mechanical Engineer | Small Modular Reactors & Nuclear Systems | PMP, CSM

United States

About

I’m a Mechanical Engineer and certified Technical Project Manager (PMP, CSM) with 7+ years of experience delivering complex, high-stakes projects in the medical device and nuclear energy sectors. I specialize in translating technical challenges into actionable project plans that align engineering execution with business value. At W.L. Gore & Associates, I led cross-functional risk management and supply chain initiatives supporting over $3B in revenue, and previously optimized heart valve manufacturing processes to improve yield and reduce cost. Before that, I worked with the U.S. Department of Defense on nuclear propulsion testing for Nimitz-class aircraft carriers, operating under Naval Reactors’ stringent regulatory framework. I bring a hands-on, systems-level approach to problem solving, thrive in collaborative environments, and have a track record of aligning teams to deliver results under pressure. Whether leading from the front or behind the scenes, I get things done.

Experience

  • Project Engineer at NuScale Power
    Dec 2025 - Present · 8 mos

    Facilitating technical alignment between EPC partners and internal engineering teams in support of NuScale’s mission to deliver safe, scalable, carbon-free power for all humankind.

  • W. L. Gore & Associates ()
    • Technical Project Manager
      Apr 2022 - Aug 2024 · 2 yrs 5 mos

      • Developed and launched a Supply Chain Risk Management program protecting $3B+ in Gore Medical revenue by proactively identifying and mitigating international and cross-functional risks. • Led multi-day cross-functional workshops with 50+ engineers, managers, and executives to quantify risk impacts related to global raw material shortages. • Designed and implemented a material risk tracking system using Excel-based visualization tools to enable executive-level strategic sourcing decisions. • Integrated risk-based cost modeling into budgeting, improving forecast accuracy by 10%+. • Directed crisis response initiatives employing Agile, Waterfall, and hybrid project methodologies to resolve critical supply chain disruptions.

    • R&D Process Engineer
      Sep 2019 - Mar 2022 · 2 yrs 7 mos

      • Boosted yield by 27% for Heart Valve NPD leaflet manufacturing through targeted data-driven process improvements. • Engineered new tooling that lowered ergonomic risks to “low” in all categories and slashed cycle time by 90%. • Authored and executed test protocols validating manufacturing equipment in compliance with 21 CFR Part 820. • Conducted process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (pFMEA) to identify and mitigate quality and cost risks. • Introduced Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) scoring, contributing to a 90% project success rate and a 10% reduction in NPD costs.

  • Nuclear Test Engineer at Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA)
    Jul 2017 - Aug 2019 · 2 yrs 2 mos

    • Led classified startup and qualification testing for A4W pressurized water reactors aboard Nimitz-class carriers, complying with DOE Naval Reactors regulations (equivalent rigor to NRC Title 10). • Coordinated integrated test evolutions involving propulsion, electrical generation, and reactor plant subsystems. • Supported root cause analyses and corrective action implementation during abnormal system conditions. • Completed 1,000+ hours of advanced technical training on pressurized water reactor systems and transient operations.

  • Research Assistant at Lehigh University Tribology Laboratory
    Jan 2016 - May 2017 · 1 yr 5 mos

    • Developed and executed wear performance tests of lubrication products in collaboration with WD40’s R&D team. • Designed and built tooling to analyze transfer films on fluoropolymer lubricants.

  • Licensed Idaho Wilderness Guide at Mackay Wilderness River Trips, Inc.
    Jun 2012 - Aug 2016 · 4 yrs 3 mos

    • Led a team of 5 to plan and execute 6-day, 30-person expeditions on the Middle Fork and Main Salmon River.