ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Connecticut

All JobsNuclear Engineering JobsEntry Level Nuclear Engineering JobsEntry Level Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Connecticut

Entry Level Nuclear Engineering information

See Connecticut salary details

$24.7K

$100.5K

$142.7K

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

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nuclear engineering in Connecticut is $100,451.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,700.00 and $112,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What do entry level nuclear engineers 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 Connecticut? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Connecticut are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Connecticut? For Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Connecticut look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Connecticut are:
What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs? Cities in Connecticut with the most Entry Level Nuclear Engineering job openings:
Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineering job openings in Connecticut as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,451 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

2026 Recent High School Grads - Entry Level Trades Opportunities - Groton

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Groton, CT

$24.28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 536 rated manufacturers

Job description

Attention Class of 2026 High School Grads!!!

Do you enjoy working with your hands? Are you ready to start a career with training and growth opportunities?  Did you miss the opportunity to interview at your school, but are still interested in trade opportunities at Electric Boat? Now's your chance!

Electric Boat is the premier designer and builder of nuclear powered submarines for the US Navy and we are experiencing a period of unprecedented growth!  We are looking for people who want to learn and grow with the company as we continue to build the most advanced submarines.

Benefits: 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • 401K Plan
  • Paid Vacation, Paid Sick & Holidays
  • 7% Shift Premium
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Commuter/Van Services
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Apprenticeship Program
  • Safety Boot Reimbursement Program
  • Training
  • Minimum starting Hourly Rate $24.28

Apply today!!!  No experience necessary.  We will train you to join our dedicated team building the most advanced and sophisticated submarines in the world! 

All entry-level positions require membership to applicable Metal Trades Council or United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Union.

Our Entry Level Trades opportunities include:

Outside Machinists*

  • Works on the submarine doing assembly and shipboard mechanical work that takes place in the shipyard

Carpenters

  • Responsible for building staging, platforms, and scaffolding for other trades to be able to work in and around the boat. 

Painters*

  • Preserves the hull and components by sealing the submarines with chemicals and paints to prevent corrosion and protect against the accumulation of marine life.

Shipfitter*

  • Responsible for laying out and fabricating metal structural parts, such as plates, bulkheads, frames, foundations, etc. Align and tracks weld's structural parts

Grinder

  • Working with various metals and pipes to be formed within a high degree of precision

Sheetmetal Worker*

  • Metal carpenters for the boat. Job tasks include layout, fabrication, assembly, and installation of all light gauge metalwork which includes air-conditioned ductwork, lockers, cabinets, prefabricated bulkheads, doors, furniture and Formica.

*Pre-employment training is provided by Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB) for these positions


Required:

  • Must be a high school senior and graduating by August of 2026
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Available to train and work on any shift
  • Ability to work at heights, confined spaces and in extreme weather conditions as required
  • Possess your own basic hand tools

Preferred:

  • Vocational HS

  • Ability to work successfully in a production/construction environment
  • Applicant will be required to work in a collaborative and team environment
  • Ability to communicate effectively with supervision and peers

Climbing, Color Vision, Crawling, Heavy Lifting, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Medium Lifting, Pulling, Pushing, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting
Acids or Alkalis, Cold, Dry, Dusty, Fumes, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Outside, Wet

What General Dynamics Electric Boat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply