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Naval Nuclear Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NDT Inspector

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$32.78/hr

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a ...

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a ...

About Us Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company ...

Project Analyst

Niskayuna, NY · On-site

$70K - $108K/yr

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a ...

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Naval Nuclear information

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$19

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$77

How much do naval nuclear jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for naval nuclear in the United States is $51.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.18 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by those working in Naval Nuclear roles, and how are they addressed?

Professionals in Naval Nuclear positions often encounter the challenge of maintaining strict safety and operational protocols while working in high-pressure environments. These roles require continuous attention to detail, adherence to rigorous regulations, and readiness to respond to emergencies. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as individuals frequently collaborate with engineering, operations, and leadership personnel to ensure safe and efficient reactor operation. Regular training, drills, and mentorship programs help address these challenges and support professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Naval Nuclear Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Naval Nuclear Operator, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles, often supported by completion of rigorous Naval Nuclear Power Training. Familiarity with nuclear reactor systems, control panel operations, and specialized safety protocols is essential, along with any necessary military certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to teamwork set outstanding operators apart. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of nuclear propulsion systems in highly demanding environments.

What jobs can Navy nukes get?

Navy nuclear-trained personnel, often called Navy nukes, can pursue a variety of careers in the civilian nuclear industry, including nuclear power plant operators, technicians, engineers, and safety specialists. Their training provides skills in reactor operations, maintenance, and safety protocols, which are highly valued in commercial and government nuclear facilities.

What are Naval Nuclear jobs?

Naval Nuclear jobs refer to specialized positions within the Navy that involve operating, maintaining, and overseeing the nuclear reactors that power submarines and aircraft carriers. These roles include nuclear-trained officers and enlisted personnel responsible for reactor operations, propulsion systems, and nuclear safety. Naval Nuclear jobs require rigorous training, strong technical skills, and a commitment to safety and precision. They play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the Navy's nuclear-powered vessels.

How much do Navy nukes make?

Navy nuclear personnel, including nuclear-trained officers and enlisted sailors, typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually during initial service, with pay increasing with rank, experience, and years of service. Advanced roles and certifications can lead to higher salaries, and nuclear personnel often receive special duty pay and allowances due to the technical nature of their work and security requirements.

What nuclear jobs are in the Navy?

Navy nuclear jobs include roles such as Nuclear Reactor Operator, Nuclear Machinist's Mate, and Nuclear Electronics Technician. These positions involve operating and maintaining nuclear reactors on submarines and aircraft carriers, requiring specialized training and security clearances. They often require knowledge of nuclear physics, engineering, and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Naval Nuclear vs Nuclear Power Reactor Operator?

AspectNaval NuclearNuclear Power Reactor Operator
Required CertificationsNaval Nuclear Propulsion Certification, Security ClearanceCommercial Nuclear Reactor License, NRC Certification
Work EnvironmentMilitary ships/submarines, secure military facilitiesCommercial nuclear power plants, civilian facilities
Employer & Industry UsageU.S. Navy, military sectorUtility companies, energy sector

Naval Nuclear personnel operate and maintain nuclear propulsion systems on military vessels, requiring military-specific training and security clearances. Nuclear Power Reactor Operators work in civilian power plants, focusing on electricity generation with NRC certifications. While both roles involve nuclear technology and safety protocols, Naval Nuclear roles are military-focused, whereas Nuclear Power Reactor Operators serve the civilian energy industry.

What does a nuclear officer do in the Navy?

A naval nuclear officer is responsible for operating and maintaining nuclear propulsion systems on submarines and aircraft carriers. They oversee reactor safety, perform technical inspections, and ensure compliance with safety protocols, often working in a highly disciplined environment that requires specialized training and certifications. Their role is critical to the vessel's propulsion and overall mission success.
More about Naval Nuclear jobs
What cities are hiring for Naval Nuclear jobs? Cities with the most Naval Nuclear job openings:
What states have the most Naval Nuclear jobs? States with the most job openings for Naval Nuclear jobs include:
Infographic showing various Naval Nuclear job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,964 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

NDT Inspector

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

Idaho Falls, ID • On-site

$32.78/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today!
Job Description
The Naval Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Level 2 Nondestructive Test (NDT) Inspector Technician to support our mission at the Naval Reactors Facility in Idaho Falls, ID. This is an exciting opportunity to play a critical role in ensuring the safety, quality, and performance of components vital to the U.S. Navy's nuclear propulsion program. The successful applicant will attain and maintain qualification as a Nuclear Inspector, which includes some or all of the following duties: Nuclear Inspection, dimensional measurements, nondestructive testing, receipt inspection, source inspection, shipping container certification, electrical inspection, rail car inspection, and construction inspection.
Duties will also involve performance of work surveillance and audits to ensure that material control, cleanliness control, and manufacturing and assembly processes comply with applicable standards. This position will also require radiological qualification as a Radiation Worker/Contamination Worker.
Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill
  • Currently holds or has previously held NDT level II certifications in one or more in VT, PT, MT, HLT.
  • Adequate visual acuity including color vision discernment required.
  • Ability to meet physical requirements with reasonable accommodations.
  • Ability to qualify as a Radiological Contamination Worker.

Preferred Skills
  • ASNT Non-destructive testing (NDT) qualification
  • Quality control inspection experience
  • Experience with the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program

Compensation and Benefits
  • Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
  • Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
  • Personal & Medical Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
  • Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Wellness Program
  • Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!

Pay Range
$32.78 hourly
Jobs categorized as subject to a collective bargaining agreement will adhere to the pay rates, wage increases, progression schedules, and other parameters identified and negotiated in said agreements. Wages and other compensation details are subject to change based negotiated changes to the collective bargaining agreements.
The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.
All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.
Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.