Michael O'Connor
Goodyear,AZ
Summary
Results-driven professional with over 40 years of experience in the nuclear industry. Skilled in coaching team members and implementing technical assistance strategies. Dedicated to fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. Dynamic team leader with proven expertise in workflow management and performance assessment. Committed to enhancing safety and efficiency while driving team development and compliance in high-stakes environments.
Overview
44
44
years of professional experience
2
2
Certifications
Work History
Refuel Team Leader
Arizona Public Service Co
Tonopah, Arizona
02.2001 - 07.2025
- Directed team in managing dry cask storage, improving safety and reliability.
- Supervised fuel receipt procedures to enhance workflow and accuracy.
- Coordinated fuel movement during outages and inspections, prioritizing efficiency.
- Conducted thorough inspections of dry cask storage systems for regulatory compliance.
- Qualified as Fuel Handling Supervisor and Cask Load Supervisor with NRC SRO license from 1994 to 2016.
- Trained team members in fuel handling and all related qualifications.
- Conducted performance evaluations to identify areas for team improvement and development.
Refuel Team Member
Arizona Public Service Co
Tonopah, Arizona
11.1990 - 02.2001
- Achieved qualifications as Industrial Rigger and Nuclear Fuel Inspector.
- Obtained Level II certification as Helium Leak Inspector.
- Qualified as NRC Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) and Fuel Handling Supervisor.
- Earned credentials as Dry Cask Loading Supervisor and Nuclear Fuel Handling Machines operator.
Nuclear Auxiliary Operator
Arizona Public Service Co
Tonopah, Arizona
02.1990 - 11.1990
- Qualified all operational areas to ensure compliance and efficiency.
- Monitored equipment performance, identifying and resolving issues proactively.
- Operated machinery to support daily production processes effectively.
- Conducted routine maintenance on tools and equipment to enhance reliability.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures and safety standards.
- Maintained accurate operational logs for regulatory compliance and audits.
- Assisted in upholding safety standards across all work areas.
- Documented all operations performed during shifts for accountability.
Nuclear Electrician
US Navy
Bremerton, Washington
10.1981 - 02.1990
- Installed and maintained nuclear submarine propulsion systems on USS Florida and prototype.
- Trained and qualified new students in Nuclear Power, ensuring competency.
- Served as leading First Petty Officer on USS Florida, enhancing team performance.
- Achieved qualification as Shutdown SRO, demonstrating technical expertise.
- Qualified as Engine Room Supervisor, overseeing critical operations.
Education
Associate of Applied Science -
Nuclear Power School
Orlando, FL02-1983
Some College (No Degree) - Biological Sciences
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZSkills
- Workflow management
- Team leadership
- Performance assessment
- Coaching and mentoring
- Budget oversight
- Technical assistance
- Change management
Skills
- Worked in SWMS and P6
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Crane Operator
- Planner/Scheduler
Certification
NRC SRO License
Timeline
Refuel Team Leader
Arizona Public Service Co
02.2001 - 07.2025
Refuel Team Member
Arizona Public Service Co
11.1990 - 02.2001
Nuclear Auxiliary Operator
Arizona Public Service Co
02.1990 - 11.1990
Nuclear Electrician
US Navy
10.1981 - 02.1990
Associate of Applied Science -
Nuclear Power School
Some College (No Degree) - Biological Sciences
University of Arizona