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Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Luminant

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, WA

$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 ...

TXU 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 ...

Vst

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, WA

$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 ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Renton, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Kent, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Boeing

Power Plant Operator A

Puyallup, WA

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

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All JobsEnergy and Environment JobsUtility JobsNuclear Reactor Operator JobsEntry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs

Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

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$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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What states have the most Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs look for?

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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.

Nuclear Reactor Operator

Constellation Energy Generation, LLC.

Ontario, NY • On-site

$69.80/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

WHO WE ARE
As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.
Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.
TOTAL REWARDS
Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program; comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs; disability and life insurance benefits; paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days; and much more.
Pay rate: $69.80/ hr
PRIMARY PURPOSE OF POSITION
Upon the successful completion of Initial License Training (including attainment of Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Reactor Operator (RO) License), operate the Nuclear Power Station in accordance with the Licensed Reactor Operators responsibilities as defined in the station operating procedures and in accordance with Operations Department and station policies and practices.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES
  • In class:
  • Candidates attending class with the intent of attaining an RO License.
  • Classroom lessons, study time, exam time, and field time required to attain licensed status.
  • Other duties as assigned to support site operations.
  • Successful completion of Initial Training and/or Watch Station Qualifications
  • Pass company and NRC issued exams to attain RO license.
  • Once licensed:
  • Operate the plant in accordance with approved procedures and within the Limiting Conditions for Operation of the Technical Specifications to ensure the reactor is operated in a safe, conservative, and efficient manner at all times.
  • Monitor the reactor and ensure reactor operation remains within established bands.
  • Monitor all assigned control room panels and notify the Unit Supervisor regarding unusual or unexpected conditions.
  • Maintain cognizance of the activities and work impacting the unit, and the work of the assist RO(s) assigned to the unit.
  • Ensure a narrative log of activities occurring on the assigned unit during the shift is maintained.
  • Perform clearance activities.
  • Coordinate liquid radwaste releases and transfers with the Reactor Operators and the Radwaste Equipment Operators
  • Perform electrical switching from the Control Room
  • Be available for on-call status, rotating shifts - including holiday and weekend work, and serve on the Emergency Response Organization

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • Successfully pass the Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) and Basic Math and Science Test (BMST) pre-employment tests successfully
  • Pass NRC-required physical examination for licensed operators.
  • Ability to complete fire brigade member qualifications based on Operational needs, including physical qualifications (ability to wear a respirator and wear 20-pound oxygen tank). For Fire Brigade and while standing watch in case of fire must wear respirators in control room.
  • Obtain unescorted access to Constellation's nuclear power plants.
  • Meet or exceed one of the following:
  • 6 months performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator on-site at the Constellation nuclear power plant for which you are applying as an RO (qualified for all power block and safety system operational duties). Must have 18 months total Power Plant experience.
  • 12 months experience performing plant operational duties as a qualified non-licensed operator at a comparable nuclear facility or 18 months at a noncomparable nuclear facility (qualified for all power block and safety system operational duties). Comparable is PWR to PWR or BWR to BWR, and non-comparable is PWR to BWR or BWR to PWR. Must have 18 months total Power Plant experience.
  • 6 months performing plant operational duties as an ACTIVE licensed reactor operator at a comparable nuclear facility or 12 months experience at a non-comparable commercial power reactor operator facility. Comparable is PWR to PWR or BWR to BWR, and non-comparable is PWR to BWR or BWR to PWR. Must have 18 months total Power Plant experience.
  • 18 months in position equivalent to the reactor operator position at a miliary Navy Reactor (qualified to manipulate or direct the manipulation of control rods. The equivalent positions are Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer, Engineering Watch Supervisor / Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor.
  • 27 months of experience performed in a non-nuclear power production plant during preoperational, startup testing or operational activities. Other acceptable experience includes plant design, construction, technical support, operation, maintenance, or training instruction with respect to petrochemical; similar process plants; or steam propulsion plants.

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