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Accelerator Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A Particle Accelerator Operator will work with engineering and physics teams to install and qualify particle accelerators and other process equipment related to isotope production. The Accelerator ...

Operator 4

Los Alamos, NM · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Description Job Title Operator 4 Location Los Alamos, NM, US Organization Name AOT-OPS/Accelerator ... As part of the Accelerator Operations and Technology (AOT) Division, you'll operate the LANSCE ...

Operator 4

Los Alamos, NM · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

As part of the Accelerator Operations and Technology (AOT) Division, you'll operate the LANSCE ... Establish and maintain complex operating configurations within strict operating and safety ...

As a part of the TAE Beams group, the Accelerator Physicist will accept responsibilities to develop ... Write detailed specifications, standard operating procedures, and installation and commissioning ...

Bachelor's degree in Physics, Nuclear Engineering or related field * 6+ years' experience operating in accelerator operations environment including hands-on experience with the following:

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Accelerator Operator information

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How much do accelerator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for accelerator operator in the United States is $27.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is an Accelerator Operator?

An accelerator operator controls a particle accelerator during an experiment. A particle accelerator is a complex machine used in physics research that conducts charged particles at near light speed in confined beams. As an accelerator operator, you work directly with the physicist or research team running the experiment and ensure that all the parameters of the experiment are accounted for and set. Your duties and responsibilities are to calibrate the systems, review the schedule, make any adjustments to the particle beam before running the test, and help analyze the outcome.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Accelerator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Accelerator Operator, you need a solid background in physics or engineering, strong mathematical skills, and often at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with accelerator control systems, vacuum technology, radiation safety protocols, and relevant certifications like radiation worker training are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help operators manage complex procedures and collaborate effectively with scientific teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the safe, efficient, and precise operation of particle accelerators used in research and industry.

What are some typical challenges an Accelerator Operator might face during a shift, and how are they addressed?

Accelerator Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, unexpected fluctuations in beam performance, or strict adherence to safety protocols. Addressing these issues requires quick troubleshooting skills, close collaboration with engineers and physicists, and the ability to follow detailed operational procedures. Operators typically document all anomalies and work closely with technical teams to resolve issues efficiently, ensuring minimal downtime and a safe working environment.

What are Accelerator Operators?

Accelerator Operators are professionals who control and monitor particle accelerators—large machines used in scientific research to accelerate subatomic particles to high speeds. They are responsible for starting, adjusting, and shutting down accelerator equipment, as well as troubleshooting issues and ensuring safe operation. Accelerator Operators work closely with scientists and engineers to support experiments in fields such as physics, materials science, and medicine. Their role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow strict safety protocols.

What is the difference between Accelerator Operator vs Pump Operator?

AspectAccelerator OperatorPump Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial facilities, power plants, manufacturing plantsRefineries, chemical plants, water treatment facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEnergy, manufacturing, research facilitiesOil & gas, chemical, water industries

Both Accelerator Operators and Pump Operators require similar certifications and work in industrial environments. However, Accelerator Operators focus on managing particle accelerators or similar equipment, while Pump Operators handle fluid transfer systems. Their roles are distinct but share overlapping skills in safety and technical operation within industrial settings.

What cities are hiring for Accelerator Operator jobs? Cities with the most Accelerator Operator job openings:
What states have the most Accelerator Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Accelerator Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Accelerator Operator jobs? For Accelerator Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Accelerator Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Full Time, 95% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $57,000 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Accelerator Operator

Accelerator Operator

Nusano

West Valley City, UT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:
At Nusano, we are working to empower the world's leading companies, health care providers, and innovators with the radioisotopes needed to advance cancer care. Our state-of-the-art facility in West Valley City, Utah will produce radioisotopes quickly, efficiently, and affordably. This will make desperately needed resources available to hospitals and cancer clinics around the world and offer those with life-threatening diseases hope for a healthier tomorrow.
A Particle Accelerator Operator will work with engineering and physics teams to install and qualify particle accelerators and other process equipment related to isotope production. The Accelerator Operator will participate in a preventive maintenance program to ensure safe, reliable, and life-cycle accelerator operations. This position will interface with scientists, engineers, technologists, and technicians, and will also work with high-vacuum, electromagnet, RF, process cooling, electronics, controls, mechanical, and cryogenic systems. It requires background performing similar work in laboratories or accelerator settings. This role will provide end-to-end system support and will participate in various experiments throughout the project, including final beam commissioning.
Responsibilities
What You'll Do:
  • Assemble, qualify, and operate accelerator and related subsystems and components
  • Operate and tune the accelerator and beam transport systems as needed by managing schedule and safety requirements using standard and proprietary software to control accelerator parameters
  • Diagnose equipment malfunctions and perform advanced troubleshooting to identify and repair or replace defective components. Elevate issues as required
  • Develop maintenance and repair procedures to reduce downtime and improve safety
  • Maintain a working knowledge of electrical and radiation safety systems
  • Lead safe operations, adhering to Personal Protection System (PPS), Machine Protection System (MPS), and other safety requirements
  • Monitor overall system health, maintain appropriate logs, and communicate deviations to the operations manager
  • Control access to restricted areas
  • Participate in a rotating shift with team members and be available to work after hours as needed
  • Maintain training to meet safety and operational requirements
  • Communicate technical information in a diverse, multi-cultural environment
  • Work independently to complete assignments, including physical activities such as lifting objects and participating in radiological activities that require multiple layers of PPE and a respirator
  • Work with electronic test equipment and tools (handheld and benchtop devices)

Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering or related field with at least 1 year of operations experience; associate's degree candidates with exceptional qualifications may be considered
  • Diagnostic skills and experience in troubleshooting one or more of the following: electrical, mechanical, vacuum, RF, electromagnet, cryogenic, controls, and high voltage systems
  • Experience following and writing formal procedures and understanding technical drawings and schematics
  • Able to work with a wide variety of hand and power tools
  • Experience with electrical work (cable assembly, soldering, testing, etc.)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Leadership, communication, teamwork, and team player skills

Preferred Requirements:
  • Particle accelerator operations experience
  • Proficient with precision mechanical inspection tools (calipers, micrometer, height gauge, etc.)
  • Experience with high-voltage and high-power electronics
  • Experience with RF systems and vacuum-electron devices (tubes, klystrons)

Physical Requirements:
  • Work to be conducted in an office environment, laboratories, engineering R&D, and/or production environment
  • Must be comfortable working within radiation environments
  • Participate in activities that require extensive safety precautions and use of protective equipment, e.g., respirators and multiple layers
  • Must be able to lift, push, and/or pull a maximum of 50 pounds
  • Ability to work sitting and standing for extended periods, grasping/gripping, fine motor control with hands
  • Ability to stoop/bend, squat/crouch, kneel, climb, work at/above shoulder height with both hands, use both hands/arms for strong grasp and either hand to turn or twist
  • Ability to ascend or descend ladders, scaffolding, ropes, poles and the like requiring the use of both feet or legs and hands or arms
  • Must be able to sit for long periods
  • Frequent use of a computer with repetitive use of a keyboard, mouse, and manual dexterity
  • 2-4 weeks of travel per year for site visits, visiting vendors, and attending conferences

About Nusano:
Nusano is a privately held physics company working to stabilize supply chains, advance American national security, and enable once-in-a-generation innovations in fields ranging from healthcare to nuclear energy.
Nusano is commercializing platform technologies for radioisotope production, stable isotope enrichment, and advanced separation techniques. Together, these proprietary systems and methods are poised to supply the fight against cancer and help fuel the nuclear renaissance.
Our team of innovators - bring curiosity, ingenuity, and heart to solving some of the world's hardest problems.

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About Nusano

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Biotechnology research and development

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Valencia, CA, US

Year founded

2013