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Entry Level Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Idaho (NOW HIRING)

Laborer

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$21.23/hr

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is looking for dedicated individuals to join our team as entry level ... We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and ...

Laborer

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$21.23/hr

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is looking for dedicated individuals to join our team as entry level ... We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and ...

Entry Level Nuclear Engineer information

See Idaho salary details

$24.5K

$99.4K

$141.1K

How much do entry level nuclear engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nuclear engineer in Idaho is $99,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,700.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level nuclear engineer do?

An entry level nuclear engineer assists in the design, development, and maintenance of nuclear equipment and systems. They often work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure the safe and efficient operation of nuclear power plants, reactors, or medical devices. Their tasks may include conducting research, performing safety analyses, preparing technical reports, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Entry level nuclear engineers also participate in training and learn about the industry's safety protocols and best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level nuclear engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Nuclear Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically demonstrated by a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as MATLAB, AutoCAD, and simulation tools, as well as understanding of regulatory standards like NRC guidelines, is often expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this position. These competencies ensure accurate technical work, compliance with safety regulations, and successful collaboration on complex engineering projects.

What are common challenges faced by entry level nuclear engineers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level nuclear engineers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex regulatory requirements, adapting to rigorous safety protocols, and quickly learning specialized software and technical systems unique to nuclear facilities. They may also need to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical, on-site applications. New engineers can overcome these challenges by actively seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, participating in ongoing training programs, and regularly engaging with interdisciplinary teams to broaden their understanding of operational procedures and safety standards.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nuclear Engineer vs Nuclear Technician?

AspectEntry Level Nuclear EngineerNuclear Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in nuclear technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, and safety assessments in labs or officesOperate and monitor nuclear equipment in power plants or facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePower plants, research facilities, government agenciesNuclear power plants, medical facilities, research labs

Entry Level Nuclear Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on designing and analyzing nuclear systems, while Nuclear Technicians usually have technical certifications and handle operational tasks. Both roles are essential in the nuclear industry but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Engineer jobs in Idaho?

The most popular types of Nuclear Engineer jobs in Idaho are:

What cities in Idaho are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Engineer jobs?

Cities in Idaho with the most Entry Level Nuclear Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineer job openings in Idaho as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,353 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Entry Level Engineer

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

Idaho Falls, ID • On-site

$63K - $97K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Naval Nuclear Laboratory rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

About Us

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today!

Job Description

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is seeking an Activity Estimator to join the Waste Programs Team at the Naval Reactors Facility in Idaho.

This role involves:
-Author activity estimates (source terms) for radioactive material, low-level waste, and mixed waste to ensure compliance with Federal Regulations (i.e. DOT, NRC) and to validate waste meets disposal facility criteria.
-Author eDocs associated with activity estimates.
-Develop methods and models for non-standard waste containers.
-Develop and maintain nuclide distributions for radioactive waste generated on-site.
-Develop and maintain excel workbooks used in activity estimates.
-Oversee and maintain Manuals used by activity estimators.
-Oversee work document revisions, including Transportation and Shipping manuals and forms.
- Review technical work documents for transportation and shipping controls.
- Modernize and innovate the activity estimating process.

Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill
Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field; or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in a related technical, engineering or science field.
Preferred Skills

-Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering.
-Experience calculating radiological source terms.
-Familiarity with nuclide distributions.
-Experience with Micro Shield.
-Intermediate to advanced experience performing statistical analysis.
-Intermediate to advanced skills using Microsoft Excel.
-Analytical and problem-solving skills.
-Radiation Worker Qualification.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
  • Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
  • Personal & Medical Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
  • Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Wellness Program
  • Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!
Pay Range
$63,900.00 - $97,800.00 annually
Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.

Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.

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