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Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Department also established the first graduate Nuclear Security program in the country and just created a nuclear engineering minor in the college. The undergraduate population is high: Penn ...

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Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal information

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$26K

$105.6K

$150K

How much do graduate nuclear engineer seasonal jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate nuclear engineer seasonal in the United States is $105,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Graduate Nuclear Engineer (Seasonal), and why are they important?

To thrive as a Graduate Nuclear Engineer (Seasonal), you need a solid background in nuclear engineering or a related STEM field, typically supported by a relevant degree or enrollment in an accredited program. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation software, radiation detection tools, and safety protocols is often required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in dynamic project environments. These competencies ensure safe operations, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration on complex engineering challenges.

What can I do with a master's in nuclear engineering?

A master's in nuclear engineering prepares individuals for roles such as nuclear engineer, reactor operator, or safety analyst, often involving designing, operating, or maintaining nuclear systems. It also provides a foundation for research, regulatory compliance, and advanced technical positions in energy, healthcare, or defense industries, typically requiring knowledge of radiation safety, thermodynamics, and relevant software tools.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Graduate Nuclear Engineer expect during a seasonal placement?

As a Graduate Nuclear Engineer in a seasonal placement, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and analytical projects that support ongoing nuclear operations, safety assessments, and infrastructure upgrades. Typical responsibilities may include assisting with data analysis, participating in safety and compliance reviews, supporting engineering design modifications, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams such as operations, maintenance, and environmental specialists. This role provides valuable exposure to real-world nuclear engineering challenges and offers opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, which can be instrumental in developing your technical and teamwork skills for a future career in the industry.

What is the difference between Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal vs Graduate Nuclear Engineer?

AspectGraduate Nuclear Engineer SeasonalGraduate Nuclear Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a recent degree in nuclear engineering or related fieldRequires a degree in nuclear engineering or related field, often with internship experience
Work EnvironmentTemporary, project-based, often during academic breaksFull-time, year-round employment in nuclear power plants or related facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by employers for short-term staffing needs, especially during peak seasonsStandard entry-level role for ongoing nuclear engineering careers

In summary, a Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal is a temporary, short-term position mainly during academic breaks, while a Graduate Nuclear Engineer is a full-time, ongoing role suitable for building a long-term career in the nuclear industry.

What are Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal roles?

Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal roles are temporary positions designed for recent graduates or students in nuclear engineering or related fields. These roles typically involve supporting nuclear projects during peak periods, such as summer outages or research programs, and provide hands-on experience in areas like reactor operation, safety analysis, and compliance. Seasonal positions help graduates apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings, gain industry connections, and potentially secure full-time opportunities after the program ends.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. Nuclear engineers with significant experience and managerial responsibilities may also reach this level, particularly in high-demand sectors or with additional certifications. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and individual expertise.

Can you make $500,000 as a nuclear engineer?

Graduate nuclear engineers typically earn salaries ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those in senior roles potentially earning over $150,000. Earning $500,000 is uncommon for entry-level or seasonal positions and generally requires many years of experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles in the nuclear industry.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced nuclear engineers, especially those in senior leadership roles or working in specialized industries, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, and typically requires advanced certifications, extensive experience, and working in high-demand or high-responsibility environments.
More about Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Nuclear Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Graduate Nuclear Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal jobs? States with the most job openings for Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal jobs include:
Infographic showing various Graduate Nuclear Engineer Seasonal job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,594 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Advanced Reactor Nuclear Engineer

Advanced Reactor Nuclear Engineer

Idaho National Laboratory

Idaho Falls, ID • On-site

$114K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Idaho National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description


Idaho National Laboratory is hiring an Advanced Reactor Nuclear Engineer to work on our Reactor Physics and Shielding team. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Research and Education Campus in Idaho Falls with every other Friday off.
As a Nuclear Engineer at INL, you'll be at the forefront of shaping the future of nuclear energy, leveraging cutting-edge research to develop the next generation of reactors and systems that power our nation and beyond. Your work will directly contribute to INL's legacy of innovation, from advancing space nuclear systems to modernizing critical infrastructure that secures our energy future. You'll explore revolutionary materials and technologies that push the boundaries of what's possible, ensuring the U.S. remains a leader in nuclear advancements. Collaborating with top scientists, you'll tackle complex technical challenges, from fuel cycle optimization to nonproliferation solutions, safeguarding America's scientific edge. By joining our team, you'll help drive INL's mission to pioneering solutions that redefine energy, national security, and technological excellence.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Develop experimental requirements or packaging and handling requirements for spent nuclear fuel.
  • Apply advanced nuclear engineering design principles, theories, and concepts.
  • Use best practices in design methodologies to develop and validate designs.
  • Document designs to ensure conformance with requirements and standards.
  • Establish testing, inspection, and quality requirements.
  • Perform integrated analyses to meet experimental, storage, transportation, disposal, and facility safety requirements.
  • Defend analytical methods and results in reviews.
  • Support project/program interactions with sponsors, operations, and engineering organizations.
  • Develop and improve physics-based mathematical models and analysis methods.
  • Prepare reports and peer-reviewed publications.
  • Represent programs through technical presentations and at conferences.
  • Participate in professional development activities.
  • Perform analyses of irradiation experiments and conduct research supporting nuclear processes.
  • Support transformational fuel qualification efforts.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Level 3: Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program and 5 years of relevant experience; or an advanced degree (MS, PhD) and 2 years of relevant experience.
  • Level 4: Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program and 9 years of relevant experience; or a Master's of Science in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program and 6 years of relevant experience; or a PhD in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program and 4 years of relevant experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE "Q" security clearance.
  • Knowledge of the following computer codes: MCNP6, SCALE6 (includes KENO, ORIGEN, TRITON, MAVRIC), OpenMC, Seprent, and the MOOSE-based code, Griffin.
  • Python, modern FORTRAN, C++, and other languages.
  • Previous experience performing research (graduate school, industry, or national lab) in advanced reactor design and multi-physics analysis.

The ideal candidate will possess:
  • Advanced degree in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • Experience in nuclear fuels and materials, reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, core design, and analysis tools/methods.

Job Information:
  • The pay range for this position is: Level 3 ($95,256 - $195,288) / Level 4 ($114,360 - $234,336). At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.
  • Multi-Level: This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.
  • TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

Physical Requirements:
While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
About Us
Benefits and Relocation
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
  • Paid time off (personal leave)
  • Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
  • Comprehensive Relocation Package
  • Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.
INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.
INL Mission:
Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.
INL Vision:
Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.
Selective Service Requirements:
To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
Reasonable Accommodation:
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
Other Information:
When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.
INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.

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About Idaho National Laboratory

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Idaho National Laboratory is a leading multi-disciplinary national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's missions in nuclear and energy research, science, and national defence. Located in Idaho Falls, ID, US, it operates under the management of Battelle Energy Alliance. Since its inception in 1949, the lab has remained at the forefront of nuclear energy innovations and advancements, providing critical scientific and technological inputs to support national priorities. Guided by its commitment to excellence, innovative research, collaborative partnerships, and integrity, the lab continues to play a vital role in driving America's nuclear and energy future.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Idaho Falls, ID, US

Year founded

1949

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