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Entry Level Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Delaware

Entry Level Nuclear Engineering information

See Delaware salary details

$26K

$105.7K

$150.1K

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

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nuclear engineering in Delaware is $105,685.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,600.00 and $118,100.00 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 Delaware? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Delaware are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Delaware? For Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Nuclear Engineering jobs in Delaware are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineering job openings in Delaware as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,685 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer Consultant 2 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear

Mechanical Engineer Consultant 2 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Wilmington, DE • Hybrid

$142K - $215K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description

Our electric power generation clients are seeking to increase the power output of their existing power plants to meet the electric demands. This is expanding work in the nuclear industry.  You will work on major systems, equipment and plant process in the following areas:

  • Perform consulting level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
  • Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
  • Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
  • Manage resources/resource loading and develop estimates for task completion and budget development.
  • Review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
  • Review task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
  • Review equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs to support the proposed power uprate.
  • Evaluate vendor bids from a technical perspective.
  • Interface with vendors to perform document reviews, ensure equipment compliance with specifications and needs of the plant.
  • Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks.
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation.
  • Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You will spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days. 

Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • This position requires a BSME from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
  • 10+ years of experience in the nuclear power industry.
  • Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
  • Experience and practical knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
    • Power Uprates (EPU/SPU/MUR)
    • Power Uprate pinch point assessments and/or task reports
    • Turbine / Generator / AVR / Exciter Refurbishments
    • Heat Exchanger Replacement (FWH/MSR/TFP)
    • Isophase Bus Duct
    • Transformer/Switchyard
    • NSSS Systems
    • Licensing Application
  • All assignments require the preparation of calculations and/or reports, and excellent technical report writing skills are essential.
  • Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design.
  • Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
  • Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants.
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

 Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • MSME from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background
  • PE License
Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range$142,710.00 - $215,440.00Transparency StatementSargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.About This Business Unit

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!

Awards & RecognitionEqual Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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