Robert Halstead has been named director of the Nevada Agency for Nuclear Projects.
That agency is responsible for fighting the proposed Yucca Mountain nuclear dump in southern Nevada.
Halstead replaces Joe Strolin, who had been acting director since January.
"Bob Halstead brings over 30 years of experience dealing with federal radioactive waste programs and activities," Gov. Brian Sandoval said in announcing the appointment.
He has been transportation adviser to the agency since 1988, serving as a consultant and reviewing environmental impact statements for Yucca Mountain. He has also represented the agency in technical proceedings involving the proposed repository.