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Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview The Power Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the College's central heating and power plant during an assigned shift. This position ...

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 ...

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 ...

Power Plant Operator

Mattawa, WA · On-site

$68.90/hr

Position Summary The Power Plant Operator is a bargaining unit operator responsible for the safe, efficient and correct operation of District power plant equipment while working under the general ...

Power Plant Operator

Mattawa, WA · On-site

$68.90/hr

Only the most qualified candidates will be referred for further consideration Position Summary The Power Plant Operator is a bargaining unit operator responsible for the safe, efficient and correct ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

BTU-Power Plant Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

$28.90/hr

Position Details Position Information Posting Number 2026594 Position Title BTU-Power Plant Operator Position # #9000050 FLSA Non-Exempt Classification Type Labor/Maintenance/Technical Department ...

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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 ...

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 ...

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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 Jul 29, 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 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.

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.
More about Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings:
What states have the most Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% As Needed, 60% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Nuclear Student Generating Plant Operator - 518655

TVA External Site

Decatur, AL

$120K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

External - Posting Description Nuclear Student Generating Plant Operator - 518655 This is a paid training program leading to the position of Assistant Unit Operator (AUO) at a Nuclear Power Plant. Organization: Nuclear Power Group Department: Nuclear Operations Location: Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in Decatur, Alabama Relocation: Relocation benefits are not offered. Local candidates may be preferred.

Posting Open: 07/26/2026 Posting Close: 08/01/2026 at 11:59 pm EST Starting Salary: $90,730 Pay will increase incrementally as trainees progress through the training program. Upon successful completion of the training program, Nuclear Assistant Unit Operator salary is currently $120,970. Transcripts To validate your qualifications for this position, you are required to submit your transcripts by the posting close date, following these steps: Email your transcripts to: [email protected] Include the Job ID number and Your Name in the Subject Line of your email.

Attach your transcripts in PDF format. Submit only transcripts that document the qualifications listed for this job posting. Transcripts submitted in any other way will not be accepted.

Planning & Preparation Monitor your email daily and respond promptly. You will receive emails throughout the process that require action on your part. If you miss an email, you may miss this opportunity.

The hiring process for TVA training programs involves several steps. Below is the target timeline for filling this position (subject to change based on business needs): EEI Testing - August 2026 Interviews - September 2026 Offers - October 2026 Candidates who receive an offer will be expected to respond within 3 days Target Start Date - January 2027 EEI Test Preparation Resources https://secure.eei.org/eeitests/onlineproducts/ username: TVA password: recruit https://getintoenergy.org/education/ Description: This is a 12 to 18-month training program leading to the position of Assistant Unit Operator (AUO) at a Nuclear Power Plant. The training consists of a combination of on-the-job training, classroom instruction and self-study

Assistant Unit Operators operate power station machinery, monitor in-plant parameters, and assist in testing of plant equipment. 330 hours will be served in electrical operations from selected activities for training purposes. 330 hours will be served in mechanical operations from selected activities for training purposes.

240 hours of classroom instruction will be given by an instructor. This instruction will include both electrical and mechanical phases and will be given at the rate of at least 5 days per month. Requirements: Must receive a qualifying score on the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) pre-entrance exam.

Will be required to progress satisfactorily on periodic examinations throughout the program. Must meet all qualification requirements established in the training plan. Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must have at least a 2-year technical degree from a regionally accredited educational institution OR: College math (6 semester or 9 quarter credit hours) at least algebra level or two years of high school mathematics with one year at least algebra level, AND either chemistry or physics at the high school, college, or university level, AND one of the following equivalencies: At least 43 semester credit hours (65 quarter credit hours) of coursework from a regionally accredited college; OR Two or more years' work experience and training in the field of power generation or ship propulsion while a member of the armed forces; OR Two or more years' work experience and training in power plant operations/generation while a member of a utility or industrial environment; OR Completion of at least a 4-year union apprenticeship.

Equal Employment Opportunity TVA is an Equal Opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding equal employment opportunities. Any applicant or employee who believes s/he has a discrimination claim (including harassment or retaliation) must contact TVA's Equal Opportunity Compliance office within 45 calendar days of the event or action s/he believes to constitute discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. Drug-Free Workplace All TVA Non-Nuclear employees are covered by TVA's Federal Drug-Free Workplace Program Plan, in accordance with Executive Order 12564, Public Law 100-71 and the Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing.

Information regarding the Drug Free Workplace Program can be found at www.samhsa.gov/workplace. TVA Non-Nuclear employees in Testing Designated Positions, including those performing safety-sensitive duties are also subject to random drug testing. TVA Nuclear employees are subject to random alcohol and drug tests in accordance with 10 CFR Part 26 as mandated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)

How to Claim Vet Preference If you are requesting to be considered as a preference-eligible veteran as outlined in the application process, you must submit your military documents before the posting close date indicated above. Be sure to include all supporting documentation: Form DD214 (member 2 or member 4 copy), a Veterans Disability Rating Letter from the VA (if applicable), and a completed form TVA 3595. If you will not get your DD214 until you are separated or retired, you can request a Statement of Service through your military personnel office.

The Statement of Service must list your dates of military service, character of service, expected date of separation and any service-connected disability rating that you have been awarded from your branch of military service. Please submit your military documents each time you apply for a position. How to Submit Documentation: Upload documents in Step 7 of the application process.

Email documents to [email protected] More information about preference eligibility and a link to form TVA 3595, can be found at https://www.tva.gov/Careers/Claiming-Veteran-Preference. If you have a question about preference eligibility, please email [email protected].