ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Navy Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

All JobsContract Navy Nuclear Engineering JobsContract Navy Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Contract Navy Nuclear Engineering information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$28.4K

$115.5K

$164K

How much do contract navy nuclear engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract navy nuclear engineering in Santa Rosa, CA is $115,450.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,700.00 and $129,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract Navy nuclear engineer?

A Contract Navy Nuclear Engineer is a professional who works on naval nuclear propulsion systems, such as those found in submarines and aircraft carriers, but is employed on a contract basis rather than as an enlisted or commissioned officer. These engineers may assist with the design, operation, maintenance, or decommissioning of nuclear reactors. Their responsibilities often include ensuring safety standards, troubleshooting technical problems, and providing expertise during upgrades or repairs. Contract status means they are typically hired for specific projects or periods, rather than as permanent government employees. This role requires a strong background in nuclear engineering and strict adherence to military safety and security protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract Navy nuclear engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Navy Nuclear Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering principles, physics, mathematics, and a relevant engineering degree, often supported by Navy-specific training or security clearance. Familiarity with nuclear reactor systems, simulation software (such as MATLAB or AutoCAD), and adherence to strict safety and regulatory standards are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills are essential for coordinating complex projects and ensuring safety. These skills ensure the safe, efficient operation and maintenance of naval nuclear propulsion systems under demanding conditions.

What are some typical challenges faced by contract Navy nuclear engineers, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Contract Navy Nuclear Engineers often work on complex projects with strict safety and regulatory standards, requiring meticulous attention to detail and thorough documentation. Adapting quickly to different shipyard environments or project teams is common, as contract roles may involve rotating assignments. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, effective communication with multidisciplinary teams, and a solid understanding of Navy nuclear protocols. Gaining familiarity with naval regulations and maintaining up-to-date security clearances can also help ensure a smooth transition into contract roles.

What is the difference between Contract Navy Nuclear Engineering vs Contract Navy Nuclear Technician?

AspectContract Navy Nuclear EngineeringContract Navy Nuclear Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree, nuclear propulsion license, security clearanceTechnical training, nuclear propulsion certification, security clearance
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and oversight of nuclear systems aboard ships or submarinesMaintenance, operation, and troubleshooting of nuclear propulsion systems
Industry UsagePrimarily in engineering roles on naval vessels and defense projectsOperational roles focused on system maintenance and support

Contract Navy Nuclear Engineering and Contract Navy Nuclear Technician roles both involve working with nuclear propulsion systems in the Navy. Engineers focus on design, analysis, and oversight, requiring an engineering degree and advanced certifications. Technicians handle maintenance and operational tasks, requiring technical training and certifications. Both roles are vital for naval nuclear operations but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Does the navy hire contract navy nuclear engineers?

Yes, the Navy hires contract navy nuclear engineers to support submarine and aircraft carrier operations, often through specialized defense contractors. These positions typically require security clearances, relevant engineering certifications, and experience in nuclear propulsion systems.

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Contract Navy Nuclear Engineering jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Contract Navy Nuclear Engineering job openings:

Contract Navy Nuclear Engineering jobs near you

Postdoctoral Scholars

Bodega Bay, CA • On-site

AA-Accelerator Tech-Applied Phys
See more jobs at AA-Accelerator Tech-Applied Physexternal

$7.9K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

The Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) has multiple openings for Postdoctoral Scholars to join the Fusion Science & Ion Beam Technology Program as part of our work on developing nuclear techniques for mining applications and the detection of critical minerals and rare earth elements. 

You will contribute to the development of Associated Particle Imaging and data fusion with X-ray technology and pulsed neutron techniques to provide new methods to analyze both borehole measurements and mining ore products. 

Working closely with scientists and engineers within our Program, the Postdoc(s) will assist in the design, implementation, and utilization of novel instrumentation and combination of instruments to enhance the characterization of materials for processes involved in critical minerals and rare earth mining through hands-on experiments and AI-driven analysis.

The position involves collaborations with researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, and industry partners.

We're here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!

You will:

  • Assist and participate in the design, operation, and analysis of new instrumentation and technologies for active neutron interrogation to be used in boreholes (associated particle imaging)
  • Assist and participate in the design, operation, and analysis of combining instrumentation such as X-ray transmission measurements, pulsed neutron sources and associated particle imaging for measuring unknown materials on a conveyor belt.
  • Assist in the development of new data fusion methods (traditional and/or AI-based) to combine different measurement techniques
  • Assist in the development of a new FPGA-based data acquisition firmware
  • Collaborate on experiments, working closely with LBNL scientists, engineers, other postdocs and students. Communicate results through internal reports, internal and external presentations.
  • Document and communicate results of work in peer-reviewed journal publications and oral presentations.
  • Proactively promote and participate in matters relating to safety and environmentally sensitive work practices.
  • Adhere to Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) policies and attend training classes as required.
  • Along with senior project team members, may mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

We are looking for:

  • Recent Ph.D. degree in physics, nuclear engineering, or related field.
  • Experience with two or more of the following areas:
    • Conducting experiments with neutron generators and X-ray sources.
    • Neutron, gamma, and X-ray detectors
    • FPGA-based data acquisition systems
    • Data fusion with traditional and/or AI methods
    • Coding (data analysis and instrumentation & control)
    • MCNP or GEANT4 neutron transport simulations
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Relevant publication record and demonstration of proficient written and oral presentation of scientific results.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team that includes engineers, scientific staff, technicians, and students.
  • Demonstrate good verbal and written communication skills.

Desired skills/knowledge:

  • Along with senior project team members, may mentor undergraduate and graduate students and visitors.

Additional information:

  • Application date: Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
  • Appointment type: This is a full-time 2-year, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
  • Salary range: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. The salary range for this position is $5,756 - $9,136/month and is expected to start at $7,987/month or above based on a step schedule. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post-Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.
  • Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
  • Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information, click here.

Apply