Ernie Tellez

About Ernie Tellez

A proven leader with more than 28 years of experience in complex nuclear sites and in the environmental field. Demonstrated ability as a Program Manager in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program (15 years) and in environmental cleanup projects at Sandia National Laboratory. Continuously fostering safety and risk management throughout the organization, while keeping projects on track and on budget. Extensive experience within the area of Quality Assurance in the Naval Nuclear program and DOE sites including WIPP and LANL. Key areas of expertise include compliance, interpretation, and implementation of federal, state, and DOE regulations in the nuclear and environmental fields. Extensive experience in program management, knowledge and compliance with Nuclear Quality Assurance (NQA-1) and NQA-1 lead auditor certified, technical training development and implementation, radioactive and hazardous waste management and waste characterization including LLW, MLLW, and TRU waste. Proven ability to interface with all levels of management and technical staff, federal and state regulators, contractors and public stakeholders. Certified Blue Dragon Hyper-Integrated Causal Analysis and Continuous Improvement Manager (Six Sigma, Lean Management, TQM, ISO, 5s). Demonstrated ability as a director and manager in motivating diverse technical teams to achieve organizational goals in a safe and timely manner. Active Q Clearance.

Experience

1. Quality Assurance Manager

   TerraPower

   Oct 2025 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

Education

• University of Denver

  Master of Science - MS, Environmental Policy & Management

  2017 — 2021

• The University of New Mexico

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Chemistry and Biology

  1995 — 1998