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Entry Level Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Nuclear Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$29.4K

$119.6K

$169.9K

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 Washington is $119,596.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,600.00 and $133,600.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Nuclear Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,596 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Entry Level Analyst - Physical Science or Engineering Degree with Security Clearance

Global Engineering & Technology, Inc.

College Park, MD • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

WORK WILL BE 100% ON-SITE, primarily in College Park, Maryland. Applicants must reside within a 1-hour commute from College Park, Maryland. This is an entry-level professional position on our Declassification Analysis team and training is provided.  Global Engineering & Technology (GET) is seeking a highly qualified individual for the position of Declassification Analyst I in support of the Department of Energy's Office of Classification. This is a permanent position as a full-time employee with benefits. The Declassification Analyst I is the entry-level developmental position designed to educate and train you to conduct declassification reviews and analyses of classified government information relating to nuclear weapons technology and naval nuclear propulsion systems. You’ll gain specialized training while playing a vital role in safeguarding some of our nation’s most sensitive national security information as you develop your knowledge and document review skills to progress to Declassification Analyst II. This work takes place primarily at the NARA II facility in College Park, Maryland. Analysis of classified records for purposes of declassification is performed in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, DOE orders, and DOE Office of Classification procedures for Restricted Data (RD), Formerly Restricted Data (FRD), and National Security Information (NSI) related to technical areas such as: • Nuclear weapons design, development, testing, production, and deployment • Special nuclear material (SNM) production technologies • Nuclear weapons safeguards and security, and transportation • Intelligence/counterintelligence • Chemical and biological defense activities • Radiological weapons • Space nuclear reactors • Naval nuclear propulsion Compensation Range: $70,000-$85,000/Year (depending on qualifications and level of experience) REQUIREMENTS Security Clearance:
Applicants MUST have a current Top Secret or DOE Q security clearance Education:
This position requires a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Required Skills, Knowledge, and Experience (this is an entry-level position and training is provided):               • Individuals with a Bachelor's degree and experience in related declassification analysis; OR • Individuals with a Bachelor's degree and any other relevant training in nuclear weapons or nuclear reactor technology; OR • Individuals with a Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physical science, or nuclear science from an accredited university or college. • Applicants MUST pass an online pre-employment reading comprehension assessment This is an entry-level position and training is provided.
           Highly Sought After (but not required) Skills, Knowledge, and Experience: • Individuals who have completed DOE's Historical Records Restricted Data Reviewers (HRRDR) course are strongly encouraged to apply. • Individuals currently qualified as a DOE Derivative Classifier. Apply today to launch a high-impact career at the intersection of national security, science, and history. BENEFITS
We provide exceptional benefits to our full-time employees (spouse/family coverage option is available at a company-subsidized rate).
Benefits include: • Medical Plan Options With UnitedHealthcare • Dental Insurance • Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance • Life Insurance • AD&D Insurance • Generous 401(k) Match
 All benefits are effective on day one of employment. This job posting is not intended to be a comprehensive list of duties or qualifications. The qualifications and requirements listed in this posting are intended as a general guide. Meeting these criteria does not guarantee selection, as additional factors (including nature of experience, skills, and organizational needs) will be considered during the review process. Global Engineering & Technology, Inc. (GET) does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.