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Entry Level Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Washington, DC

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Entry Level Nuclear Engineering information

See Washington, DC salary details

$29.4K

$119.6K

$169.9K

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nuclear engineering in Washington, DC is $119,587.00, 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.

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 Washington, DC? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Engineering job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $119,587 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 3 days ago

New


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.