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Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Energy Northwest

Nuclear Security Officer

Richland, WA · On-site

$52.15/hr

C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES The Nuclear Security Officer (NSO) is responsible to ensure physically checking buildings and rooms to determine if they are secure and in order. Responsibilities ...

Allied Universal

Nuclear Security Officer - Armed

Wiscasset, ME · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Nuclear Security Officer - Armed Job Locations US-ME-Wiscasset Category (Portal Searching) Security Officer Level Shifts Available Afternoon, Evening, Morning, Overnight Business Unit RSS Overview ...

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Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer information

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How much do entry level nuclear security officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level nuclear security officer in the United States is $25.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer, you need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, and knowledge of basic security protocols. Familiarity with security monitoring systems, access control technology, and completion of specialized training or certifications such as NRC or site-specific requirements are typical. Strong attention to detail, integrity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety and security of nuclear facilities, protect sensitive materials, and maintain regulatory compliance.

What are entry level nuclear security officers?

Entry level nuclear security officers are professionals responsible for protecting nuclear facilities, materials, and personnel from threats such as theft, sabotage, or unauthorized access. They monitor surveillance systems, conduct patrols, check identification, and respond to security alarms or incidents. These officers work under strict federal regulations and must complete extensive training in security protocols, emergency response, and the use of defensive equipment. Their primary goal is to ensure the safety and security of nuclear sites, supporting the safe operation of critical infrastructure.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level nuclear security officers during their initial months on the job?

Entry level nuclear security officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to strict protocols, maintaining high levels of alertness during long shifts, and quickly learning complex safety procedures. New hires must also become proficient with security technologies and coordinate closely with both security teams and plant personnel. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring the safety and security of the facility.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer vs Security Guard?

AspectEntry Level Nuclear Security OfficerSecurity Guard
Required CertificationsSecurity clearance, basic security trainingSecurity license, basic training
Work EnvironmentNuclear facilities, high-security areasVarious settings like malls, events, buildings
Employer & IndustryEnergy, government, nuclear industryPrivate security firms, retail, commercial

While both roles involve security duties, the Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer works specifically in nuclear facilities requiring specialized clearances and training, whereas Security Guards serve in a broader range of environments with standard security credentials. The nuclear role emphasizes high-security protocols and industry-specific knowledge, making it more specialized than general security guarding.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Security Officer jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Security Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer jobs include:
Entry Level Nuclear Security Officer jobs near you
Nuclear Security Officer

Nuclear Security Officer

Energy Northwest

Richland, WA

$52.15/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY
An armed, uniformed individual, whose primary duties are the protection of special nuclear material from theft, and protection of a nuclear plant against radiological sabotage. The ability to demonstrate physical fitness for assigned security duties as required by the 10CFR Part 73, Appendix B.I.C.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
The Nuclear Security Officer (NSO) is responsible to ensure physically checking buildings and rooms to determine if they are secure and in order. Responsibilities include tactical armed responder duties and alarm assessment. Act as a surveillance sentry and vital door guard. Operate reader and communication equipment. Perform armed escort and response duties. Conduct vehicle, personnel, and material searches for the detection of firearms, explosives, and incendiary devices. The individual must be able to perform and demonstrate the ability to complete physical training qualifications to maintain access. May be required to withstand occasions of extreme physical exertion when responding to alarms and during drills. Must be able to work any shift and overtime as required.
Will work with the following equipment, tools, machinery, and material: X-ray machines, 2-way radios, firearms, capstun, ammunition, handcuffs, response equipment (body armor, body bunkers, gas mask, tactical vest, mobile defensive barrier, gas canister, and other pertinent security equipment), alarm panels, hand-held metal detectors, badges, dosimeters, vehicle search mirror, flashlights, cameras, monitors, intrusion detection system, and other standard security and office equipment.
REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • A high school diploma or GED is required.

  • Must be 21 years of age.

  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

  • Must be able to meet requirements to lawfully possess or receive firearms and ammunition in performance of Nuclear Security Officer duties.


Continuing Qualifications to maintain position:

  • Successful completion of Plant Access, Safeguards, and Respiratory Protection training.

  • Must successfully pass initial and subsequent medical, physical fitness, psychological, cognitive, personality, and security training imposed by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and/or Energy Northwest.

PAY RATE:

This a bargaining unit position starting at $33.77 per hour with a step progression every 6 months until you reach the top pay rate of $52.15 per hour at24 months.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

  • Must have high school diploma or GED

  • Must be 21 years of age

  • Possess a valid driver'slicense

  • Pass a drug and alcohol test

  • Pass all physical requirements including a psychological examination

  • Be able to obtain and maintain unescorted access

Mandatory Job Requirements:

The following are representative examples of mandatory Nuclear Security Officer employment requirements:

  • Work 12-hour rotating shifts, days and nights, including weekends and holidays.

  • Carry weapons and are required to complete and pass periodic firearm testing.

  • Maintain stringent fitness requirements and are required to complete and pass an annual fitness agility test.

  • Complete and pass a yearly medical qualification examination.

  • Obtain and maintain unescorted access.

  • Be clean-shaven and meet grooming standards.

  • Wear the uniform issued by Energy Northwest.

  • Subject to random alcohol and drug testing.

  • Subject to periodic background and credit screening.

  • Must successfully complete ongoing classroom training, weapons training, and on-the-job training.

The following qualifications are desirable for the Nuclear Security Officer position:

Military or Security-related Work Experience

Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement Degree or Work Experience

Employment Background Investigation:

Energy Northwest Nuclear Security Officers are required to carry weapons; therefore, we will conduct a thorough background investigation, which will include fingerprinting sent to the FBI.

If you have been convicted of the misdemeanor crime of Domestic Violence, you will not be able to lawfully possess or receive firearms or ammunition for any purpose.

You must provide a 10-year work history with no gaps (must explain what you have been doing for the last 10 years).

This position is represented by United Steel Workers (USW Local 12-369).

No relocation assistance.

BENEFITS

Energy Northwest (EN) offers a highly competitive and substantial benefits package which allows employees (and their families) to enroll in medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Other voluntary benefits include flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, supplemental life insurances, credit monitoring, and identity theft insurance. EN offers three retirement programs to qualifying employees including a matching 401(k) deferred compensation plan, the Washington State Pension Plan (PERS), a company-provided contribution into an HRA VEBA account each pay period, and a 457(b) savings plan. Employees will also accrue 160 hours of personal time per year and receive nine paid holidays throughout the calendar year.

Other available compensation includes our annual At-Risk Compensation program and various monetary recognition programs, when approved. Stipends are available to qualifying positions, after incumbent successfully completes required training.

Posting closes at 11:59PM the day before the listedenddate.

The application process is completed in stages. Once you have applied, please watch your email and your Workday account notifications for required next steps in order to move forward in the process.

See below for approximate dates and locations for the application process. Candidates who move from one stage to the next will be specifically notified.

7/7 - 7/29APPLICATION AND SUBSEQUENT QUESTIONNAIRE COMPLETION.Once you have applied in Workday, selected candidates will receive a series of questionnaires to complete prior to moving to the next stage. Please watch your email and your Workday account notifications for these.

8/17 - 8/20COGNITIVE/PHYSICAL AGILITY TESTING AND INTERVIEWSwill be conducted.You will need to be available all day on one of these days for cognitive and physical agility testing, which will be conductedin personin Richland, WA. Interviews will be conducted directly aftersuccessful completion of the cognitive and physical agility tests.

The agility test is a Physical Performance Test, which consists of: 1. Sit Up--complete 22 sit-ups in 60 seconds; 2. Arm Lift--must achieve an average score of 50 lbs of force on 3 tries; 3. Leg Endurance--minimum standard is 88 revolutions within 60 seconds pedaling a preset bicycle; 4. Horizontal ladder coordination test. (Wear running shoes and comfortable clothing when participating in this test.)

8/24 - 8/28 CONTINGENT OFFERScontingent on your ability to successfully complete the remaining items of the pre-employment testing, which include medical evaluations.

NOTE:Please be aware that more candidates are receiving conditional offers of employment than there are positions available, since it is anticipated that some candidates may be unsuccessful in the final pre-employment testing and/or may choose to withdraw. If more candidates successfully complete the final pre-employment testing than there are positions available, final offers will be based upon an assessment of the candidates' performance throughout all phases of the selection process.

9/7 - 9/18 PHYSICALS

Medical Testing and Physicalsconsist of: 1. Fasting blood test; 2. Vision test to include intraocular eye pressure; 3. Hearing test; 4. EKG; 5. Pulmonary Function Test; 6. Urinalysis;7. Physical examination will be completed by a physician at Lourdes Occupational Health Center in Pasco, WA, unless a candidate is from out-of-area which will result in this being conducted near your residence if at all possible.

Due to the tight schedule,there is no flexibilityfor rescheduling physicals in the event of a "no-show." It is your responsibility to ensure you are available on the dates mentioned above. You will need to be available approximately 1.5 hours one of these days for this process.

9/21 - 9/24 TEMPORARY HIRE & PRE-EMPLOYMENT TESTING

NOTE:You will be paid during this period. Expect to be available 4-6 days during this timeframe.

Pre-employment testing will include Fitness for Duty (drug and alcohol testing), MMPI (Psychological evaluation and interview) and General Employee Training (computer-based testing).

9/24 - 9/28 FINAL OFFERS MADE

Final offers will be based upon an assessment of the candidates' performance throughout all phases of the selection process. A probationary period of 6 months will be conducted; this will determine your continued full-time employment.

10/12 EXPECTED FULL-TIME START DATE

Congratulations! You successfully completed all phases of the application/employment process. This will be your official start date of training. Benefits will be effective January 1, 2026.

If you have any questions, you may contact Energy Northwest:

  • Megan Mittleider (509) 377-4763
  • Anne Younes at (509) 372-5198

This is a bargaining unit position and the hourly pay rate is:

$33.77

Pay In Lieu of Benefits Amount:

$0.50

We are an Equal OpportunityEmployer and do not discriminate due to race, color, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, national origin, veteran status or on the basis of disability.

Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal

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