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Entry Level Nuclear Engineering information

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$26K

$105.6K

$150K

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nuclear engineering in the United States is $105,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level nuclear engineer do?

Entry level nuclear engineers assist in the research, design, development, and operation of nuclear equipment and systems, often under the supervision of more experienced engineers. Their responsibilities may include conducting tests, collecting and analyzing data, preparing technical reports, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They often work in nuclear power plants, research labs, or government agencies, gaining hands-on experience while learning industry protocols. Entry level positions typically require a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or a related field.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level nuclear engineers during their first year on the job?

Entry-level nuclear engineers often encounter a steep learning curve as they adapt to strict safety protocols, regulatory requirements, and specialized technical systems unique to the nuclear industry. Collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams—including operators, safety specialists, and senior engineers—can also be challenging at first. Additionally, new engineers must quickly become comfortable interpreting complex technical documentation and participating in detailed risk assessments, which are essential to plant operations and safety. Supportive mentorship and comprehensive onboarding programs are typically provided to help new hires overcome these initial hurdles.

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 solid background in nuclear engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-specific software such as MATLAB, AutoCAD, and nuclear simulation tools, as well as safety and regulatory certifications, is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set successful candidates apart. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of nuclear systems in a highly regulated and technically complex environment.

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

AspectEntry Level Nuclear EngineeringNuclear Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in nuclear technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, research, and development in labs or officesOperational support in nuclear power plants or facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, government agencies, research institutionsNuclear power plants, maintenance, and safety operations

Entry Level Nuclear Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on design, analysis, and research tasks, while Nuclear Technicians usually have an associate's degree and support plant operations and safety. Both roles are essential in the nuclear industry but differ in education requirements and daily responsibilities.

How to start a career in entry level nuclear engineering?

To start a career in entry-level nuclear engineering, obtain a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Gaining internship experience and developing skills in safety protocols, radiation protection, and engineering software can improve job prospects; relevant certifications or training may also be beneficial.

Is there a demand for entry level nuclear engineers?

Entry level nuclear engineers are in demand due to ongoing needs for safety, maintenance, and modernization of nuclear power plants. The field requires strong technical skills, knowledge of radiation safety, and often a professional engineering license, with job growth expected to be steady as the industry maintains existing facilities and explores new technologies.

What are entry-level jobs at a nuclear plant?

Entry-level jobs at a nuclear plant typically include positions such as Nuclear Plant Operator Trainee, Nuclear Technician, or Radiological Control Technician. These roles often require a high school diploma or associate degree, and may involve on-the-job training or certification in radiation safety and plant operations.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Engineering jobs?

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What states have the most Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs look for?

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Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,594 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Nuclear Engineer (Thermal/Hydraulic), Associate (Entry Level)

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

West Mifflin, PA • On-site

$63K - $97K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

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

Are you a prospective or recent college graduate with a strong interest in reactor engineering and analysis, and want to work with world class engineers that support the world's best Navy?The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is seeking an entry level nuclear engineer that will perform both thermal and hydraulic analyses in support of the nuclear reactors that power the FORD Class Aircraft Carrier Fleet. The selected candidate will join a multidisciplinary reactor performance analysis team that is responsible for routine and emergent support of the FORD Class; this includes performing reactor system performance analyses, supporting reactor core manufacturing, and developing reactor system performance improvements.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to learn thermal and hydraulic analysis codes used for reactor performance analyses, prepare and execute analyses using high performance computing systems, and make determinations regarding reactor plant performance and operations.

Join our mission-focused team and support the U.S. Navy's nuclear-powered fleet!

Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill
  • Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in a related engineering or science field; or
  • Masters degree from an accredited college or university in a related engineering or science field.
Preferred Skills
  • Degree in nuclear engineering is preferred, but not required.
  • Strong initiative to learn and apply new skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience using Microsoft Excel.
  • Experience with scripting languages such as Python.
  • Background (academic and/or professional) in thermal/hydraulic design and analysis.
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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