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Entry Level Nuclear Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Aug 27, 2026 Req ... Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our ...

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Aug 27, 2026 Req ... Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our ...

$57K - $62K/yr

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Aug 27, 2026 Req ... Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our ...

$57K - $62K/yr

WELDER/STRUCTURE ENTRY-LEVEL Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States Date: Aug 27, 2026 Req ... Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our ...

$57K - $62K/yr

RIGGER ENTRY LEVEL - FOR 2026 HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS OR GRADUATES Location: Newport News, Virginia ... Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our ...

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Entry Level Nuclear information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$51

$76

How much do entry level nuclear jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level nuclear in Virginia is $51.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.85 and $61.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level nuclear job?

Entry level nuclear jobs are positions within the nuclear industry that require minimal prior experience and are suitable for recent graduates or individuals new to the field. These roles often include positions such as nuclear technician, junior operator, or support staff in power plants, laboratories, or regulatory agencies. Entry level employees typically receive on-the-job training and may assist in monitoring equipment, collecting data, or supporting safety procedures. These jobs serve as a starting point for advancing to more specialized or higher-level roles within the nuclear sector.

What are the typical responsibilities of an entry level nuclear engineer and how do they contribute to larger projects?

Entry level nuclear engineers often assist with data analysis, safety assessments, and monitoring systems within nuclear facilities. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, supporting the development and maintenance of reactors or nuclear equipment. These professionals play a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance and operational safety, and their contributions help larger teams meet project milestones efficiently. Collaboration with cross-disciplinary teams, such as radiation safety and mechanical engineering, is common and provides valuable exposure to different aspects of the nuclear industry.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Nuclear Technician, you generally need a strong background in math, physics, and engineering principles, often supported by an associate degree in nuclear technology or a related field. Familiarity with radiation detection equipment, reactor control systems, and safety protocols, as well as certification such as the Nuclear Uniform Curriculum Program (NUCP), is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, accurate operation in a highly regulated environment where precision and teamwork are vital for both safety and efficiency.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nuclear vs Entry Level Nuclear Technician?

AspectEntry Level NuclearEntry Level Nuclear Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require an associate degreeHigh school diploma; technical training or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentPower plants, research facilities, or manufacturing sitesPower plants, maintenance facilities, or research labs
Industry UsageGeneral term for entry-level roles in nuclear industrySpecific role focused on operating and maintaining nuclear equipment

Entry Level Nuclear is a broad term for initial roles in the nuclear industry, while Entry Level Nuclear Technician refers specifically to positions involving hands-on operation and maintenance of nuclear systems. Both require safety training and basic technical skills, but the technician role often demands more technical certifications and practical experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Nuclear jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Nuclear jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Nuclear job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Nuclear job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,037 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

STAGE BUILDER ENTRY LEVEL - FOR 2026 HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS OR GRADUATES - SIGN-ON BONUS

Newport News, VA • On-site


Huntington Ingalls Industries
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 545 rated manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$50K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Req ID: 48069
Team: X36 WTRFT SUPPORT SERV
Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding
US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes
Full-Time
Shift: Multiple
Relocation: Relocation assistance will be available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework
Travel Requirements: No
Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start
Salary Range: $50,856.00 to $55,640.00
The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors, and may vary from the posted range
Meet HII's Newport News Shipbuilding
With more than 25,000 employees - including third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is the largest industrial employer in Virginia. We're the sole designer, builder and refueler of U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our diverse and innovative team of professionals ranges from skilled trades to project managers, engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. We collaborate together at the forefront of technology, manufacturing, and integration of the most powerful and survivable naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you.
The Role
This Job Listing is for recent or upcoming 2026 High School Graduates. Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries, is offering a $500 sign-on bonus to entry level stage builders. In addition, NNS is offering $500 in relocation bonus to entry level stage builders new hires that live 50 miles or greater from Newport News, VA. Job seekers who apply are eligible for the sign-on and relocation bonus. The sign-on bonus is for external new hires. Current Newport News Shipbuilding employees are ineligible for the sign-on bonus.
The Entry-Level Stage Builder supports the construction, installation, and dismantling of temporary staging (scaffolding) systems used in shipbuilding. This role works under direct supervision and is responsible for assisting in ensuring safe and efficient access to vessels and work areas throughout the shipyard.
  • Assist in the erection and dismantling of staging/scaffolding structures in accordance with safety standards and blueprints
  • Transport, organize, and stage materials such as planks, pipes, couplers, and ladders
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment in compliance with shipyard and OSHA regulations
  • Follow instructions from supervisors and experienced stage builders to complete assigned tasks
  • Inspect materials and equipment for damage or defects prior to use
  • Support other trades by building safe access platforms as needed

Newport News Shipbuilding offers competitive pay, weekly paychecks, paid time off, paid holidays, medical benefits including an on-site health center, 401K company match, employee discounts, and more.
Must Have
Candidates must able to work at extreme heights or small confined spaces.
Must be able to kneel, squat, crawl, bend, stoop, and climb.
Must be able to lift 40 lbs and must take and pass a respirator fit test.
The abilility to climb and work heights, lift a minimum of 40 lbs. and work in confined space is required.
Must be able to WORK ANY SHIFT
Nice to Have
High school graduate or equivalent preferred
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. HII's diverse workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Working at HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on-site health centers, tele-medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.
Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.


Working at Huntington Ingalls Industries

About Huntington Ingalls Industries, in their own words

From Huntington Ingalls Industries

Our 44,000-strong team includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence and machine learning experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals. Recognized as one of America's top large employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Here you'll find a collaborative environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs that span our shipbuilding apprentice schools in Virginia and Mississippi to tuition reimbursement programs that support continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Our values of integrity, safety, respect, engagement, responsibility and performance are the foundation of HII's ethical culture that inspires employees to do the right thing each day, regardless of the circumstances.


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