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Entry Level Nuclear Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DTE Energy

Licensed Nuclear Operator

Newport, MI · On-site

... Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi. Those duties include ... Monitors and interprets plant parameters and manipulates plant equipment by simultaneously ...

DTE Energy

Licensed Nuclear Operator

Newport, MI · On-site

... Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi. Those duties include ... Monitors and interprets plant parameters and manipulates plant equipment by simultaneously ...

NextEra Energy

Reactor Operator - License Class

IA · On-site

Other duties as assigned including ensuring safe and efficient operation of the nuclear plant while ... Completes the site Reactor Operator (RO) License * Develops planning, organizing, and directing ...

Southern Company

General Plant Operator

Newnan, GA · On-site

General Plant Operator (Operations and Maintenance Technician) Georgia Power Company - Plant Yates ... nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia ...

Southern Company

General Plant Operator

Newnan, GA · On-site

General Plant Operator (Operations and Maintenance Technician) Georgia Power Company - Plant Yates ... nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia ...

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Entry Level Nuclear Plant Operator information

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

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level nuclear plant operator 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 some common challenges faced by entry level nuclear plant operators, and how are they typically addressed?

Entry level nuclear plant operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning complex systems, and managing the pressure of working in a highly regulated environment. These challenges are typically addressed through comprehensive training programs, ongoing mentorship from experienced operators, and regular safety drills. Teamwork is crucial, as operators frequently collaborate with engineers and senior staff to ensure smooth operations and quick responses to any issues. Continuous learning and adherence to procedures help new operators build confidence and competence in their roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Nuclear Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Nuclear Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of physics, mathematics, and mechanical systems, typically supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a technical field. Familiarity with control room systems, radiation monitoring equipment, and industry-standard certifications such as the NRC Reactor Operator License is essential. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for ensuring safety and responding to critical situations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining plant safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance in a highly controlled environment.

What does an Entry Level Nuclear Plant Operator do?

An Entry Level Nuclear Plant Operator assists in the day-to-day operations of a nuclear power plant under the supervision of experienced staff. Their responsibilities include monitoring equipment, recording data, performing routine inspections, and helping to ensure that all systems are running safely and efficiently. They may also assist with start-up, shutdown, and troubleshooting tasks. Safety and adherence to strict protocols are a key part of the role. Over time, operators can advance with experience and additional training.
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Entry Level Nuclear Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Licensed Nuclear Operator

Licensed Nuclear Operator

DTE Energy

Newport, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states.
But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities. When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing. Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things.
Testing Required: EEI POSS Test
Job Summary
This position is for a Reactor Operator license candidate who will perform the duties of a Licensed Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi. Those duties include manipulation of reactor and other controls to effect the safe, reliable and efficient operation of the nuclear station; directing the activities of nuclear operators; and ensuring that periodic tests and inspections are performed in accordance with NRC regulations.
Key Accountabilities
  • Monitors and interprets plant parameters and manipulates plant equipment by simultaneously regulating reactivity, steam, water, temperatures, flows, pressures, generator loads, voltages, etc.
  • Operates and provides protection on any plant equipment.
  • Directs the activities of Nuclear Operators including scheduling work, giving work direction and managing flow.
  • Initiates repair orders and/or arranges for necessary maintenance to instruments, gauges, and mechanical or electrical equipment. Inspects, tests, accepts or rejects maintenance work.
  • Responsible for checking all instruments, controls, mechanisms, and systems prior to startup. Personnel tours plant to inspect equipment to assure safe, efficient operation. Takes appropriate action to correct unsatisfactory conditions by reporting, tagging, erecting barriers, applying emergency operating procedures, etc.
  • Exchanges factual information with directors, managers and federal government regulatory agencies, other utilities and vendors/suppliers/contractors.
  • Responds to alarms and signals and takes corrective action deemed necessary by operating equipment or issues direct operating orders to other plant personnel. As necessary, follows up to ensure proper execution of orders.
  • Acts as Fire Brigade Leader in directing the fire brigade in firefighting activities.

Qualifications
The candidate's education and experience must be verified and in accordance with Regulatory Qualifications List and ACAD 10001, Guidelines for Initial Training and Qualification of Licensed Operators as described below:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 27 months of Total Power Plant Experience OR
  • 6 months performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at Fermi 2 PP OR
  • 12 months performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at a BWR facility or
  • 18 months of performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at a PWR facility OR
  • 6 months performing plant operational duties as an ACTIVE licensed reactor operator at a BWR facility or
  • 12 months performing plant operational duties as an ACTIVE licensed reactor operator at a PWR facility OR
  • 18 months in position equivalent to the reactor operator position at a military reactor such as:
    • Reactor Operator
    • Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer
    • Engineering Watch Supervisor / Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor

Additional Qualifications
Other Qualifications
  • Must successfully pass POSS Exam
  • Pass physical examination for Nuclear Regulatory Commission Regulation 396, "Certificate of Physical Exam" and Guide 1.134, "Medical Evaluation of Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses".
  • Must successfully pass the Reactor Operator License Examination and maintain license

PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS
At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.

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