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Entry Level Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Geoscientist I-Tucson, AZ

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

HGI works within the mining, nuclear, engineering, and environmental industries. We are currently ... This is an entry-level or minimal experience position that assists scientists and engineers with ...

Navy Nuke - EE / ME CxA Agents

Phoenix, AZ

$84K - $106K/yr

UPS Field Service Technician - Phoenix, AZ NAVY NUCLEAR / NAVY NUKE / NAVY ELECTRICIAN PREFERRED ... We are looking for a Navy Nuke - EMN, MMN, or ETN to transition into an entry level CxA engineer ...

Entry Level Nuclear Engineering information

See Arizona salary details

$24.2K

$98.4K

$139.8K

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

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nuclear engineering in Arizona is $98,402.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,800.00 and $110,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How can I get into entry level nuclear engineering?

To enter an entry-level nuclear engineering position, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Gaining relevant internships, developing skills in reactor systems and safety protocols, and obtaining certifications such as the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam can improve job prospects.

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 are entry-level nuclear engineering jobs at a nuclear plant?

Entry-level nuclear engineering jobs at a nuclear plant typically include roles such as nuclear engineer trainee, plant operator, or junior reactor engineer. These positions involve assisting with plant operations, safety procedures, and maintenance, often requiring knowledge of nuclear systems, safety protocols, and relevant certifications like a Professional Engineer license or NRC licensing exams.

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.

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 the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Arizona? For Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Entry Level Nuclear Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineering job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,402 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Geoscientist I-Tucson, AZ

Certerra Subsurface

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

CERTERRA (formerly RMA Companies) is a growing national provider of testing, inspection, and certification services that support innovation in new product development, quality assurance, for project delivery, and engineered solutions for asset management. We are passionate about contributing to the sustainable development of the communities we serve. We are a national firm with a global reach serving national and international clients from 30+ offices located in 10 states and are ranked on ENR’s Top 500 list alongside the nation’s top firms. With a 60-year history, CERTERRA has a passion for high-end services, constant innovation, and investment in the development of world-class laboratory facilities, and interactive management technologies. Each member of our staff is committed to service, innovation, and the success of our clients.

Job Summary:

HydroGEOPHYSICS (HGI) is a geophysical services company that provides state-of-the-art solutions to our customer’s needs. HGI works within the mining, nuclear, engineering, and environmental industries. We are currently looking to expand our Tucson, AZ office by hiring a full-time Staff Geophysicist, Geoscientist, Hydrologist, or Engineer. This is an entry-level or minimal experience position that assists scientists and engineers with data collection, data analysis, and report writing. Beyond fieldwork, the candidate will help process, model, and visualize earth science and geophysical data, as well as integrating GPS and/or surveying data, on a daily or project basis.

Job Responsibilities/Duties:

  • Will work outdoors with uneven terrain while carrying heavy equipment (50+ lbs.).
  • Work independently and with the team.
  • Problem solves, at times make temporary in-field repairs, and adapt to changing conditions.
  • Loading and unloading of equipment for field projects.
  • Vehicle and equipment transport to and from field projects.
  • Set up, tear down and maintenance of field monitoring equipment.
  • Other field support as directed by project lead.
  • Field projects range from two days to two months and require extensive travel regionally, nationally and globally. This will include remote locations with limited communications and facilities, extreme environmental conditions (health, cold, altitudes, etc.), and possible industrial hazards.
  • Organization and maintenance of field equipment in accordance with company procedure.
  • General office support as required when not in the field.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Geophysics, Geosciences, Geology, or Earth Science related Engineering discipline with 2-4 years of applied experience, inclusive of geophysical field work utilizing data acquisition equipment, OR a Master's degree in Geophysics, Geosciences, Geology, or Earth Science related Engineering, Hydrology, or Environmental discipline with little to no experience.
  • Degree must include advanced math and physics. A transcript will be required.
  • Ability to flourish with minimal guidance, be proactive, and handle uncertainty.
  • Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal, as well as being organized and detail-oriented.
  • Schedule flexibility, priorities can change quickly as we are a service-based company and have to react quickly to client demands.
  • Enjoy travel (nationally and internationally), remote destinations, and working outdoors with complex scientific equipment. The position requires up to 70+% travel. Field projects can range from two days to two months and require extensive travel regionally, nationally and globally.
  • Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
  • A current passport or ability to secure a passport within 90 days of hire date.
  • This employment opportunity involves government contracts. Per those contract requirements, applicants must provide proof of US citizenship.
  • Organized and enjoy working independently or with a team.
  • Ability to problem solve and be able to adapt to changing conditions.
  • Inclined to working with electronics and building new tools to streamline projects.
  • Proficient with internet research, email, MS Office, Word and Excel (formula use, tables, lookups, etc.).
  • Strong writing capability including efficient sentence / paragraph construction and ability to self-edit.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience with geophysical fieldwork and data collection, environmental sampling/logging, laboratory or scientific instrumentation is encouraged.
  • If experienced, proficiency in electrical, seismic, and electromagnetic methods is a plus.
  • Professional Geophysicist (PGP) and/or Professional Geologist (PG)/Certified Hydrogeologist (CHG), or a willingness to apply/study for a PGP license.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish speaking skills.
  • Experience driving a vehicle/trailer combination.
  • MSHA/OSHA/Hazwoper training.

Key Success Attributes:

  • Results Driven
  • Team Player
  • Positive attitude that contributes to a positive work environment
  • Maintain a quick and steady pace throughout your work shift
  • Highly motivated self-starter with ability to perform well with varying degrees of supervision
  • Curious and interested in learning new concepts

Core Competencies:

  • Consistency and Reliability
  • Communication
  • Creative Thinking
  • Growth Mindset
  • Research, Analysis and Evaluation
  • Flexibility

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • 401K Plan
  • Company cell phone or cell phone stipend
  • Company laptop

Physical Requirements:

  • Employee will be required to adhere to large amounts of standing, walking and climbing.
  • Will talk and hear to communicate.
  • Will use arms and hands to signal, grab, hold, turn, push, pull objects, materials, controls and tools repetitively.
  • Will be required to lift, carry and move up to 50lbs over uneven terrain.
  • With another person required to lift and move equipment greater than 50lbs but usually less than 150 pounds
  • Working Conditions while Performing Essential Functions: This position is performed in an office and field setting. The atmosphere is fast paced and deadline oriented with focus on safety and quality.


We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. This Company is dedicated to both the letter and the spirit of the equal opportunity employment laws. All applicants and all employees will be evaluated based on their ability, competence, and performance of the essential functions of their positions. There will be no discrimination based on race, sex, national origin, religion, age 40 and over, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other classification which may be protected by federal, state, or local laws. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we specifically offer equal opportunity for all employees or job applicants who may have a physical or mental disability. Such people will be hired based on their ability to perform the essential functions of the job in question. Likewise, their work will be evaluated on their performance of these essential functions. We will offer reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities, to the extent that Company resources allow without undue hardship. As part of our equal employment policy, there will be no wage differentials based on gender, between men and women employed in the same establishment, on jobs that require equal skill, effort, and responsibility, and which are performed under similar working conditions. Veterans encouraged to apply