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Naval Reactor Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Role This requisition is for a position within the one of the Propulsion and Reactor ... naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber.

$99K - $122K/yr

The Role This requisition is for a position within the one of the Propulsion and Reactor ... naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber.

$99K - $122K/yr

The Role This requisition is for a position within the one of the Propulsion and Reactor ... naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber.

... naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you ... FORD Class Aircraft Carrier Propulsion and Reactor Engineering Planning Yard (PREPY), whose ...

... naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you ... FORD Class Aircraft Carrier Propulsion and Reactor Engineering Planning Yard (PREPY), whose ...

... naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you ... FORD Class Aircraft Carrier Propulsion and Reactor Engineering Planning Yard (PREPY), whose ...

$124K - $153K/yr

... naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you ... FORD Class Aircraft Carrier Propulsion and Reactor Engineering Planning Yard (PREPY), whose ...

Showing results 41-60

Naval Reactor Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$59K

$110.7K

$201.3K

How much do naval reactor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for naval reactor engineer in Virginia is $110,674.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a naval reactor engineer?

Naval Reactor Engineers are specialized engineers responsible for designing, maintaining, and overseeing the safe operation of nuclear reactors on naval vessels, such as submarines and aircraft carriers. Their duties include ensuring reactor safety, troubleshooting technical issues, and supporting refueling or decommissioning processes. They work closely with the U.S. Navy and other government agencies to uphold strict safety and regulatory standards. These engineers play a vital role in ensuring that naval nuclear propulsion systems operate efficiently and reliably. Typically, a background in nuclear, mechanical, or electrical engineering is required for this career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a naval reactor engineer?

To thrive as a Naval Reactor Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering, physics, and mechanical or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with reactor simulation software, CAD tools, and familiarity with nuclear regulatory standards and certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license are highly valued. Exceptional problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set outstanding engineers apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient design, maintenance, and operation of naval nuclear propulsion systems.

What are some common challenges faced by naval reactor engineers when working on a submarine or aircraft carrier?

Naval Reactor Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing complex systems in confined spaces and ensuring the highest standards of safety and reliability under demanding conditions. They must quickly troubleshoot and resolve technical issues, often while coordinating with multidisciplinary teams including operations, maintenance, and command staff. Additionally, adapting to the unique work environment—such as extended periods at sea and strict security protocols—requires strong communication skills and resilience. These challenges offer valuable experience and growth opportunities for engineers interested in advanced nuclear technology and leadership roles.

What is the difference between Naval Reactor Engineer vs Nuclear Power Plant Engineer?

AspectNaval Reactor EngineerNuclear Power Plant Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, security clearance, nuclear certificationsEngineering degree, nuclear certifications, licensing
Work EnvironmentSubmarine or aircraft carrier nuclear propulsion systemsCommercial nuclear power plants
Industry UsageMilitary, defense, naval vesselsEnergy, utilities, commercial power generation
Common Search IntentNaval nuclear systems, military nuclear engineeringCommercial nuclear power, energy sector careers

Naval Reactor Engineers focus on designing, maintaining, and operating nuclear propulsion systems for military vessels, often requiring security clearances. In contrast, Nuclear Power Plant Engineers work in civilian energy facilities, managing commercial nuclear reactors. Both roles demand specialized nuclear certifications and engineering expertise, but they differ in work environment and industry focus.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Naval Reactor Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Naval Reactor Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Naval Reactor Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,674 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

ENGINEER ELECTRICAL 3

HII

Newport News, VA

$99K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Huntington Ingalls Industries rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Huntington Ingalls Industries

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 76,515 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

ENGINEER ELECTRICAL 3
Location:
Newport News, Virginia, United States
Date: Aug 21, 2026
Req ID: 47548
Team: E50 PROP AND REAC ENG PLNG YRD
Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding
US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes
Full-Time
Shift: 1st
Relocation: Relocation assistance will be available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework
Travel Requirements: Yes, 10%-25% of the time
Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start
Salary Range: $99,000.00 to $122,000.00
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 requisition is for a position within the one of the Propulsion and Reactor Engineering Planning Yard's (PREPY) electrical system/component or electromechanical component groups with opportunities to support the development of new aircraft carriers, modernization of the existing aircraft carrier fleet, design of a new battleship class, and standard valve designs used throughout the Navy. The PREPY is a single multidiscipline, cross-platform design agency, which is responsible for the design, development, and lifetime support of the propulsion plants (including reactor plant) of all Navy aircraft carriers (NIMITZ and FORD Class) and nuclear battleships (BBGN Class), as well as the standard valves used across all Navy ships.
Researches, develops, designs, and tests electrical components, equipment, systems, and networks. Designs electrical equipment, facilities, components, products, and systems for commercial, industrial, and domestic purposes.
Must Have
Bachelor's Degree and 5 years of relevant exempt experience;
Master's Degree and 3 years of relevant professional experience;
Ph.D. and 0 years of experience.
Newport News Shipbuilding requires a Bachelor's Degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program.
Nice to Have
Preferred qualifications include:
• Conceptual design knowledge of common electrical/electronic components
• Ability to proactively identify and apply electrical and electronic engineering principles to resolve technical design issues
• Ability to read, analyze, and design electrical schematics and wiring charts
• Familiarity with the use of software to generate physics-based models of electrical circuits and control systems
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience with end-user support and troubleshooting
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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