2

Entry Level Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Nuclear Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$25.5K

$103.4K

$146.9K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nuclear engineer in Minnesota is $103,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,500.00 and $115,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Engineer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Nuclear Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,420 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Electrical or Mechanical Design Engineer I/II IBEW 949

Xcel Energy

Welch, MN

$49.82 - $60.22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Xcel Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Welch, Minnesota, 55089, United States of America
Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you're looking for.
We anticipate an opening for one or more Electrical or Mechanical Design Engineer I/II role for the Nuclear Plant in Welch, MN. The base rate of pay for this classification will be starts off at $49.82 to $60.22 per hour.
This position performs or oversees Design, engineering activities in support of the safe, reliable and efficient operations of the nuclear generation power plants at a Plant and Fleet to solve complex engineering issues. Primary responsibilities include supporting complex plant modifications or alternatives, calculations, engineering evaluations, equipment operability determinations, maintenance of design basis documents and resolution of complex Corrective Action Issues. Additional responsibilities include the review of existing / new design (or program, plant, procedure or contract) documents, in support of continued plant operation, assessment of adverse conditions, engineering analyses, and project management skills. This role will include the oversight and ownership of the plant's electrical analysis and design basis.
Essential Responsibilities
• Perform, lead or oversee performance of highly technical or complex plant modifications. Lead troubleshooting of nuclear power plant systems, calculations, engineering evaluations, operability determinations, maintenance of design basis documents, resolution of complex Corrective Action issues, support of continued plant operation, assessment of adverse conditions and project management. The individual has valuable expertise that is needed by the Company to solve complex engineering issues and complex or novel assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures.
• Become proficient with the electrical analysis software ETAP.
• Develop schedules, utilize work management tools, performs or oversee assignments for engineering related activities at the most senior level subject matter expert to support site and fleet goals. Perform other duties and activities as assigned.
• Attend Department and plant meetings and represent the Company at industry events or activities.
• Attend training and complete other duties and/or projects as assigned by department leadership.
Minimum Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related technical field from an ABET accredited college or university.
• Engineering experience with high performance ratings.
• May be required to assume emergency response duties and live within 30 or 60 minutes from the nuclear generation station. Required to maintain nuclear "fitness for duty" during off hours if on call or designated emergency response duty.
• Ability to obtain and maintain qualifications for unescorted access to Xcel Energy's nuclear power plants is an essential requirement of the position.
Engineer I = 0 years minimum experience
Engineer II = 2 years minimum experience
Preferred
• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Advance degree (in engineering or other related technical field).
A condition of employment will be successfully obtaining and maintaining General Security Clearance and a Nuclear Security Clearance for unescorted access to Xcel Energy nuclear plants including successful completion of nuclear General Access Training (GAT) and the nuclear security screening process (typically consists of an alcohol/drug screen, a criminal history check, a psychological assessment, initial credit and background investigation and periodic credit & criminal history checks).
As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you're ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com .
Bargaining
The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $49.82 to $60.22 per hour
This position is eligible for the following benefits: Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Savings and Retirement Plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO)
Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.
In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Deadline to Apply: 08/20/26
EEO is the Law | EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)
All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.
ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

What Xcel Energy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Xcel Energy logo

About Xcel Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Xcel Energy is a prominent electricity and natural gas service provider serving multiple states in the United States, including Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. Our commitment revolves around delivering essential services to our valued customers. As a trailblazer in the industry, we were the first major US electricity provider with a visionary goal to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 and an ambitious 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, based on 2005 levels. Through innovative electric vehicle initiatives, we actively contribute to carbon reduction not only in our electricity generation but also in the transportation sector within the states we operate. Simultaneously, we remain devoted to ensuring cost-effectiveness for our customers by implementing advanced electricity rates and energy efficiency programs.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1909