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Entry Level Nuclear Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Nuclear Plant information

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How much do entry level nuclear plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level nuclear plant in the United States is $33.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $60.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, Maintenance Technician, or Radiological Control Technician. These roles often require a high school diploma or equivalent, basic technical skills, and may involve on-the-job training or certifications like OSHA or NRC safety training.

How much does a worker at a nuclear power plant make?

Entry-level nuclear plant workers typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on location and experience. These roles often require technical training, certifications, and adherence to strict safety protocols, with salaries increasing with experience and specialized skills.

Is it hard to get a job at a nuclear power plant?

Getting a job at a nuclear power plant can be competitive and typically requires relevant education, such as a degree in engineering or nuclear technology, along with specialized training and certifications like NRC licensing. Entry-level positions often require a strong safety record and the ability to pass background checks and physical exams. Familiarity with plant operations and safety protocols is also important for employment in this field.

Can you work in a nuclear plant without a degree?

Entry level positions in nuclear plants typically require a high school diploma or equivalent; however, many roles also require specialized training, certifications, or technical skills. A college degree is often preferred for certain technical or engineering roles, but some entry-level jobs may be available with relevant training and experience. Safety and regulatory requirements also influence qualification standards for nuclear plant employment.

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

AspectEntry Level Nuclear PlantNuclear Plant Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require an associate degreeTypically requires an associate degree or technical certification in nuclear technology
Work EnvironmentPlant operations, safety protocols, maintenance tasks in nuclear facilitiesMonitoring systems, conducting tests, assisting with plant operations in nuclear facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in nuclear power plants, utility companiesTechnicians working in nuclear power plants, maintenance, and safety teams

Both roles involve working in nuclear power plants with safety and technical skills. An Entry Level Nuclear Plant typically refers to initial positions requiring basic education, while a Nuclear Plant Technician often requires technical certifications and hands-on training. Both are essential for plant operations but differ mainly in qualification requirements and job responsibilities.

More about Entry Level Nuclear Plant jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Plant jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Nuclear Plant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Plant jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Plant jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Nuclear Plant jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Nuclear Plant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Plant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, 73% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Reactor Training Engineer (Associate)

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

West Milton, NY

$63K - $97K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


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

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is seeking motivated Entry Level Nuclear Operations and Training Engineers!
The Nuclear Operations and Training Engineer trains US Naval personnel to be nuclear plant operators and supervisors utilizing nuclear reactors and state of the art simulation technology. This an accelerated leadership development opportunity in one of the most prestigious programs in the world. This unique position provides hands-on nuclear plant operations experience while building a repertoire of technical, operational, and leadership skills. Individuals will train US Navy students on the fundamental principles of safe nuclear plant operations which prepares them for service on submarines and aircraft carriers. This position is vital to ensuring the nuclear fleet is fully staffed with the most highly trained, technically competent nuclear operators in the world.
Individuals in this position will qualify as a nuclear plant operator, supervisor, and instructor. While assigned to this position, rotating shift work is required. In addition to advanced development opportunities, this position offers incentive bonus payments and rotating shift differential while working the rotating shift schedule. (Please note: flexible start/end times and 9/80 work schedules are not available for this position).
The Nuclear Operations and Training Engineer will complete technical training and plant qualifications in an expeditious manner. The initial qualification is a 16-month long training program. The first six months consists of classroom instruction conducted by Navy Instructors at Naval Nuclear Power School in Charleston, SC. The remaining nine months consists of hands-on training on an operational reactor and simulator, as well as continued classroom instruction and small group training. Upon completion of qualification as a nuclear plant supervisor, the Nuclear Operations and Training Engineer will continue with advanced qualification and technical training as they fulfill their duties as a nuclear operator and trainer.
Are you interested in becoming part of a 60-year legacy dedicated to supporting the mission of the US Navy? If so, apply today!
#EntryLevelEngineer

Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill

Bachelor's degree in engineering, science or technical related field from an accredited college or university

Preferred Skills

* Minimum overall GPA of 3.2/4.0; applicants with a minimum overall GPA of 3.0/4.0 and extensive relevant work experience (e.g., naval or commercial nuclear, merchant marine and maritime propulsion, or similar industrial systems) will be considered on an exception basis
* Previous naval nuclear power experience
* Strong academics in core engineering courses (e.g., calculus, thermodynamics, electrical/electronics, physics, materials, dynamics, statics, chemistry)
* Ability to effectively communicate in a shipboard/prototype and instructional environment; ability to provide clear and understandable verbal orders (face-to-face and over an announcing system) in a shipboard/prototype environment and casualty situations)
* Sustained performance in high pressure situations
* Demonstrated leadership abilities in guiding individuals and groups

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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