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Licensed Reactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AMS Ameren Services

Senior Reactor Operator

Steedman, MO

$105K - $162K/yr

Must meet one of the following requirements: 1)Currently a Licensed Reactor Operator or Licensed Senior Reactor Operator with one or more years of experience in the position; 2) Previously a Licensed ...

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

Interface with regulatory authorities and support inspections, audits, and licensing activities as ... NRC Reactor Operator (RO) or Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, or equivalent certification (e ...

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

Interface with regulatory authorities and support inspections, audits, and licensing activities as ... NRC Reactor Operator (RO) or Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, or equivalent certification (e ...

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX

Interface with regulatory authorities and support inspections, audits, and licensing activities as ... NRC Reactor Operator (RO) or Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, or equivalent certification (e ...

Vistra Energy

Nuclear Operator

Shippingport, PA · On-site

Upon successful completion of the training program and receipt of your operator license, you will transition into a full-time role as a Licensed Reactor Operator, working a rotating shift schedule to ...

Vistra Corp.

Nuclear Operator

Shippingport, PA · On-site

Upon successful completion of the training program and receipt of your operator license, you will transition into a full-time role as a Licensed Reactor Operator, working a rotating shift schedule to ...

Vst

Nuclear Operator

Shippingport, PA · On-site

Upon successful completion of the training program and receipt of your operator license, you will transition into a full-time role as a Licensed Reactor Operator, working a rotating shift schedule to ...

TXU Energy

Nuclear Operator

Shippingport, PA

Upon successful completion of the training program and receipt of your operator license, you will transition into a full-time role as a Licensed Reactor Operator, working a rotating shift schedule to ...

Orion Talent

Senior Reactor Operator

Oswego, NY · On-site

$191K/yr

During initial license training , Total compensation earnings eligibility ranging from $159,000 to ... Reactor Operator (RO) * Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOW) * Propulsion Plant Watch Officer ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Union Hill, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

During initial license training, Total compensation earnings eligibility ranging from $159,000.00 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Blue Grass, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

During initial license training, Total compensation earnings eligibility ranging from $159,000.00 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Sabula, IA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

During initial license training, Total compensation earnings eligibility ranging from $159,000.00 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Lyndon, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

During initial license training, Total compensation earnings eligibility ranging from $159,000.00 ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

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Licensed Reactor Operator information

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How much do licensed reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for licensed reactor operator in the United States is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a licensed reactor operator?

Licensed Reactor Operators are professionals who control and monitor nuclear reactors in power plants. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the reactor, following strict procedures and protocols to maintain safety and regulatory compliance. These operators must be licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and undergo rigorous training and testing. Their duties include starting up, shutting down, and troubleshooting reactors, as well as responding to emergencies. The role is critical for public safety and the reliable production of nuclear energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a licensed reactor operator?

To thrive as a Licensed Reactor Operator, you need a solid background in physics, engineering, or a related technical field, along with completion of specialized reactor operator training and an NRC license. Familiarity with reactor control systems, instrumentation, and safety protocols is essential, as is proficiency with plant-specific monitoring software. Strong attention to detail, situational awareness, and effective communication skills are crucial for addressing routine operations and responding to emergencies. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of nuclear reactors, protecting both personnel and the public.

What are some common challenges faced by licensed reactor operators during their shifts?

Licensed Reactor Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected operational anomalies, coordinating closely with engineering and maintenance teams during equipment troubleshooting, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols under pressure. They must continuously monitor complex control panels and rapidly interpret data to ensure the reactor remains within safe operational limits. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, especially during high-stress situations like plant startups, shutdowns, or emergency drills.

What is the difference between Licensed Reactor Operator vs Nuclear Plant Technician?

AspectLicensed Reactor OperatorNuclear Plant Technician
Required CredentialsReactor Operator License, training, and certification from NRCTechnical training, certifications in nuclear systems, but no license required
Work EnvironmentControl room, reactor containment, plant operationsMaintenance, monitoring, and support roles in plant areas
Employer & Industry UsagePower plants, nuclear facilitiesNuclear power plants, research reactors

Licensed Reactor Operators are responsible for controlling nuclear reactors and require specific NRC licenses, while Nuclear Plant Technicians support plant operations through maintenance and monitoring without needing a license. Both roles are vital in nuclear power plants but differ in responsibilities and certification requirements.

How much does a licensed reactor operator make?

A licensed reactor operator typically earns between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific facility. They must hold a valid license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and often work shifts in a nuclear power plant environment.

How to become a licensed reactor operator?

To become a licensed reactor operator, candidates must complete a nuclear power plant training program, gain relevant experience, and pass the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing exams, which include written and practical components. Typically, applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some prior experience in the nuclear or related industry is preferred.
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Licensed Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Licensed Reactor Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 54% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,880 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Licensed Reactor Operator Consultant (BWR Nuclear Plant)

The Planet Group

Palo, IA • On-site

$60 - $75/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

NOW HIRING: Licensed Reactor Operator (RO) Consultants

Nationwide Opportunity

$60–$75/hr + 1.5x OT
$890/week per diem
Home trip every 12 weeks
Mobility/Demobilization paid
12+ month contract
Monday–Friday | 7:00 AM–3:00 PM
Monday–Thursday | 6:00 AM–4:00 PM may also be available
Multiple openings

NO SPONSORSHIP | NO C2C | NO AGENCIES

The Planet Group is currently seeking experienced Licensed Reactor Operator (RO) Consultants for a hands-on operational support assignment at a commercial nuclear generating station.

This opportunity is ideal for experienced nuclear operators who can immediately contribute to safe and reliable plant operations while supporting an extended operator training initiative.

Must-Have Experience:
  • Previously held NRC Reactor Operator (RO) license
  • 5+ years of commercial nuclear plant operations experience
  • Strong BWR operating experience preferred; PWR considered
  • Equipment clearances and tagging
  • Isolation boundary development
  • System lineups and equipment status control
  • Operational risk reviews
  • Work package reviews
  • Plant configuration control
  • P&ID and system drawing interpretation
  • Hands-on plant operations experience
  • Strong nuclear plant systems knowledge
  • Ability to evaluate operational impacts of maintenance activities

This is a hands-on operations position—not a supervisory role. The ideal candidate is a former/current Reactor Operator who is comfortable in the field, understands plant systems, and can quickly integrate into an operating nuclear environment.


 

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