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Entry Level Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Operations Engineer 1

Columbia, MO · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer I Position Summary The Manufacturing Engineer I is an entry-level role for a ... nuclear, semiconductor, or similar). * Exposure to Lean/Six Sigma concepts, structured problem ...

Entry Level Nuclear Engineer information

See Missouri salary details

$24.4K

$99K

$140.7K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nuclear engineer in Missouri is $99,048.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,400.00 and $110,700.00 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 Missouri?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineer job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,048 per year, or $47.6 per hour.

Manufacturing Operations Engineer 1

watlow

Columbia, MO • On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Watlow rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 161 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Manufacturing Engineer I

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Engineer I is an entry-level role for a recent engineering graduate or early-career engineer who wants to build a career in manufacturing. Working closely with a mentor and senior engineering staff, this person supports manufacturing processes and equipment to help meet safety, quality, delivery, and cost goals, while developing the technical and problem-solving skills needed to take on greater ownership over time.

Key ResponsibilitiesProcess & Daily Operations Support
  • Support assigned manufacturing processes/value streams as a technical resource for production issues, non-conformances, and process questions, escalating to senior engineers as needed.
  • Help monitor process performance (scrap, rework, OEE, throughput, changeover time, labor productivity) and assist in developing corrective actions when performance deviates from target.
  • Participate in structured problem solving (5 Why, Fishbone, DMAIC, PDCA) alongside experienced engineers to address issues in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
  • Help create and maintain clear standard work, work instructions, and training materials for operators and technicians.
Equipment & Tooling
  • Support capital equipment projects under the guidance of a senior engineer, contributing to requirements definition, vendor communication, design reviews, FAT/SAT, installation, and production ramp-up.
  • Assist in developing and executing equipment validation plans (process capability, gauge checks, safety, and reliability).
  • Help design, specify, or improve tooling, fixtures, and gaging to enhance throughput, ergonomics, quality, and ease of use.
  • Partner with Maintenance to learn preventive maintenance (PM) practices and support equipment reliability efforts.
Continuous Improvement & Automation
  • Identify and help prioritize continuous improvement opportunities that reduce scrap, improve yield, increase capacity, and reduce conversion cost.
  • Learn and apply Lean manufacturing principles (5S/6S, visual management, standard work, flow, pull, SMED, error proofing) within assigned areas.
  • Assist in evaluating automation and digital solutions (e.g., robotics/cobots, automated inspection, data collection, SCADA/MES, AMRs) alongside senior engineers.
  • Support development of business cases (benefits, CAPEX, payback, IRR) and help track realized savings.
New Products & Change Management
  • Support New Product Introduction (NPI) and transfers by helping define manufacturable processes, layouts, and equipment for new designs.
  • Participate in PFMEA, Control Plan, and process capability activities for new or changed processes.
  • Assist in processing engineering changes (ECR/ECO) impacting manufacturing, ensuring changes are implemented with appropriate validation, documentation, and training.
Quality & Compliance
  • Partner with Quality to help ensure processes meet internal specifications, customer requirements, and agency/industry standards.
  • Support root cause and corrective action (RCCA/CAPA) activities for internal and customer issues, including documentation and communication.
  • Learn and follow safety, regulatory, and audit requirements related to equipment, processes, and documentation (e.g., machine guarding, LOTO, calibration, record retention).
Skills & CompetenciesTechnical / Professional
  • Foundational knowledge of manufacturing processes and methods (e.g., machining, welding, assembly, thermal processes, testing, automation, vision systems), gained through coursework, internships, or co-ops.
  • Familiarity with engineering tools such as CAD, GD&T, and statistical analysis (SPC, capability); willingness to develop proficiency on the job.
  • Basic understanding of industrial electrical and controls systems (PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, safety circuits, sensors), with eagerness to build skills to support troubleshooting alongside Maintenance, vendors, or controls specialists.
  • Strong problem-solving mindset and willingness to learn how to plan, validate, and sustain manufacturing processes and equipment.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to work cross-functionally and ask for help when needed.
QualificationsRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering (or expected completion within the next few months).
  • 0–1 years of related experience; relevant internships, co-ops, capstone projects, or academic lab experience are welcomed.
  • Basic exposure to troubleshooting electrical and mechanical issues, through coursework, internship, or hands-on projects.
  • A demonstrated interest in manufacturing, process improvement, or hands-on engineering work.
Preferred
  • Coursework or internship experience in a regulated or high-reliability manufacturing environment (e.g., aerospace, medical, nuclear, semiconductor, or similar).
  • Exposure to Lean/Six Sigma concepts, structured problem solving, or project management through coursework or certification.
  • Familiarity with MES/SCADA/data collection, automated inspection (vision systems), robotics/cobots, or advanced automation concepts.
  • Academic or project experience involving equipment build or integration, spanning mechanical and electrical design.

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About Watlow

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1922

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