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Naval Reactor Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OneSource EHS

Field Safety Manager

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

Manage day-to-day field safety operations for US Navy Naval Reactor Projects. * Conduct daily field ... EM-385 USACE Safety & Health Certification * 3+ Years experience in USACE-Army Corps of Engineering ...

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

You will work hands-on with a multidisciplinary team of nuclear engineers, I&C specialists, and ... Experience with small modular reactors (SMRs), research reactors, or naval reactors is preferred

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX

You will work hands-on with a multidisciplinary team of nuclear engineers, I&C specialists, and ... Experience with small modular reactors (SMRs), research reactors, or naval reactors is preferred

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX

You will work hands-on with a multidisciplinary team of nuclear engineers, I&C specialists, and ... Experience with small modular reactors (SMRs), research reactors, or naval reactors is preferred

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Naval Reactor Engineer information

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$59.5K

$111.6K

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How much do naval reactor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for naval reactor engineer in the United States is $111,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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's the hardest job to get in the Navy?

The Naval Reactor Engineer position is highly competitive due to its specialized technical requirements, security clearances, and rigorous training. It involves working with nuclear propulsion systems, requiring advanced education, certifications, and adherence to strict safety protocols, making it one of the most challenging roles to secure in the Navy.

What are Naval Reactor Engineers?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Naval Reactor Engineer, and why are they important?

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.
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Naval Reactor Engineer jobs near you
Naval Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) Program - TX

Naval Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) Program - TX

U.S. Navy

Austin, TX • On-site

$150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 370 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

Location: Nationwide (training in Charleston, SC; potential duty stations worldwide) Pay: ~$70,000 annually while in college; $80,000–$90,000 starting post-graduation; $150,000+ by the end of a 5-year contract Bonus: $30,000 upon acceptance

About the Program

The NUPOC Program offers a direct pathway into one of the most elite and intellectually demanding communities in the U.S. Navy. While completing your degree, you’ll receive full pay and benefits as an active-duty Ensign. Upon graduation, you’ll begin a 5-year active-duty contract as a Naval Nuclear Propulsion Officer, leading highly trained teams and managing the operation of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers.

What You’ll Do

As a NUPOC officer, you’ll select one of several career tracks, each offering unique leadership opportunities:

Submarine Officer

  • Lead as one of only a handful of officers aboard a nuclear-powered fast-attack or ballistic missile submarine.
  • Responsible for the safe operation of the reactor, ship systems, and navigation.
  • Gain hands-on experience in tactics, intelligence, and nuclear propulsion while serving in one of the most challenging environments on Earth.

Aircraft Carrier (Surface Nuclear) Officer

  • Lead the reactor department aboard a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the centerpiece of American naval power.
  • Oversee teams managing propulsion and electrical systems that keep a 100,000-ton warship and its air wing operational.
  • Combine engineering leadership with strategic-level operations experience.

Nuclear Power School Instructor

  • Teach newly commissioned officers the fundamentals of nuclear science and reactor operations at the Navy’s Nuclear Power School in Charleston, SC.
  • Develop the next generation of nuclear-trained officers through rigorous academic instruction in thermodynamics, reactor physics, and systems engineering.
  • Sharpen your own technical expertise while building mentorship and teaching skills.

Training Reactor Instructor

  • Train officer and enlisted students on a prototype naval reactor — an operational, land-based nuclear plant.
  • Oversee students as they perform watchstanding, drills, and reactor operations in real-world conditions.
  • Gain unique experience blending engineering leadership, reactor operations, and high-stakes training.

Naval Reactors Engineer

  • Serve in Washington, D.C. at Naval Reactors Headquarters, the program that Admiral Rickover built.
  • Work directly with civilian engineers, shipyards, and national laboratories to design, develop, and maintain nuclear propulsion systems for the entire fleet.
  • Gain unmatched technical project management experience at the intersection of engineering and policy.

Benefits

  • Compensation & Stability:
    • ~$70,000 annually while still in school
    • $80,000–$90,000 starting salary after graduation
    • $150,000+ annual earning potential by the end of your initial 5-year contract
    • $30,000 signing bonus upon acceptance
    • Full active-duty benefits (healthcare, housing allowance, retirement accrual)
  • Career Growth:
    • Accelerated leadership training
    • Hands-on experience with advanced nuclear propulsion technology
    • Career flexibility across Navy communities and post-service civilian careers
  • Education Support:
    • Possible graduate school opportunities
    • World-class nuclear training pipeline in Charleston, SC

Eligibility Requirements

  • U.S. Citizen
  • At least 19 years old and no older than 29 at commissioning (waivers possible)
  • Currently enrolled in or completed:
    • Calculus I & II
    • Physics I & II with calculus
  • No specific major required — applicants from all degree programs are eligible if coursework requirements are met
  • Strong academic performance

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National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

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Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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