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Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

$69.15/hr

I have the ability to perform common journey-level Power Plant Operator duties in a power producing plant such as hydropower, fossil fuels (such as coal, oil, and natural gas), nuclear, solar, and/or ...

Alcoa

Power Plant Operator

Newburgh, IN · On-site

A Power Plant Operator controls the generation of electricity of electrical power by operating and maintaining fuel systems such as ash, demineralizer and others, to ensure the smelter operation is ...

Alcoa

A Power Plant Operator controls the generation of electricity of electrical power by operating and maintaining fuel systems such as ash, demineralizer and others, to ensure the smelter operation is ...

St Anthony Hospital

Power Plant Operator

Lakewood, CO

$27.28 - $43.06/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by ...

St Anthony Hospital

Power Plant Operator

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$27.28 - $43.06/hr

As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by being responsible for operating ...

Sprung Services, Inc.

Be Seen First

Power Plant Operator

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

Power Plant Operator Wage: $38-$42/hour (Includes 8 hours of built-in overtime) Shift: Rotating - 7 days of 12-hour day shifts, followed by 7 days off, then 7 days of 12-hour night shifts, followed ...

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Pittsburg, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Vistra Energy

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance (POSS / MASS) program in order to be considered a candidate for this ...

Ameresco

Power Plant Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$33.65 - $48.80/hr

We are currently seeking a Power Plant Operator and or Mechanic Technician to join our Renewable Power Plant operations team at our site location in Pittsburg, CA. Ideal candidates could have ...

Rahr Malting Co

Power Plant Operator

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$38 - $42/hr

Koda Energy/RahrBSG is looking for a Power Plant Operator to join out team in Shakopee, Minnesota. The Plant Operator is a shift lead position that is responsible for the safe, efficient, and ...

St Anthony Hospital

Power Plant Operator

Lakewood, CO

$27.28 - $43.06/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by ...

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Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

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$18

$33

$61

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level nuclear power 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 does an entry level nuclear power plant operator do?

An entry level nuclear power plant operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling systems that generate nuclear power under the supervision of experienced operators. Their duties include reading instruments, adjusting controls, recording data, and assisting with routine maintenance and safety checks. They follow strict protocols to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the plant while learning the skills needed for more advanced roles. Training and certification are typically required before independently managing any critical operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level nuclear power plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, strong math and science skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional technical training preferred. Familiarity with control room systems, SCADA software, and regulatory compliance procedures is important, and successful candidates often pursue NRC operator licensing. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient plant operations and compliance with strict safety standards, which are critical in the nuclear energy industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level nuclear power plant operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level nuclear power plant operators often face the challenge of mastering complex systems and procedures while adhering to strict safety protocols. The learning curve can be steep, as operators must quickly become familiar with plant operations, emergency responses, and regulatory requirements. To overcome these challenges, new operators benefit from thorough training programs, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and active participation in drills and simulations. Building strong communication skills and asking questions when unsure are also key to success in this highly regulated environment.

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

AspectEntry Level Nuclear Power Plant OperatorNuclear Power Plant Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training and certification from NRCAssociate degree or technical certification; specialized training
Work EnvironmentControl room, plant floor, safety protocolsEquipment maintenance, testing, troubleshooting in plant facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitor reactor operations, follow safety procedures, respond to alarmsMaintain and repair plant equipment, assist in inspections

While both roles work within nuclear power plants and require safety training, Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operators focus on monitoring and controlling reactor operations, whereas Nuclear Power Plant Technicians handle equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. Both positions are essential for safe plant operation and often require similar certifications, but their daily tasks differ significantly.

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Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

POWER PLANT OPERATOR

US Department of the Army

Bridgeport, WA

$69.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 493 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: You will serve as a journey level Power Plant Operator at a hydroelectric facility whose principal assignment is operation of the powerhouse. The powerhouse consists of 27 main generators, 2 station service generators, a spillway with 19 gates and an intake structure with 29 gates.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a(n) POWER PLANT OPERATOR~ without more than normal supervision. I have the ability to perform common journey-level Power Plant Operator duties in a power producing plant such as hydropower, fossil fuels (such as coal, oil, and natural gas), nuclear, solar, and/or wind. I can restore a station service generator or main generator to service after routine maintenance, corrective maintenance, or after a major overhaul in a power plant. I can respond to system plant or disturbances with minimal supervision. I work under normal supervision of a work leader or journey-level employee who observes tasks in progress and upon completion to make sure they are properly performed.
- Failure to meet this Screen out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
PHYSICAL EFFORT: Eye and hand coordination is required to operate switches and controls. Job requires extensive walking, standing, and climbing vertical and inclined ladders and stairs. Is required to operate large valves, apply servo locks, lift deck hatches and other jobs requiring pulling or turning force. Lifts and carries equipment and supplies frequently up to, and occasionally over, 45 pounds. Work requires prolonged standing, walking, climbing, bending, stooping, twisting, pulling, pushing, and kneeling.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Works on a rotating shift, inside, in well-lighted work area. Works outdoors for short periods with exposure to climate extremes. Occasionally works in proximity to high voltages and currents. Incumbent is often exposed to equipment and machinery noises and outside the control room employee will be subject to the discomfort of wearing safety equipment such as hard-hats, earplugs, and respirators. Must wear appropriate safety equipment and protective clothing, and successfully complete and maintain all occupational health requirements.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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