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Nuclear Core Design Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

As a Design Engineer, you will contribute to Wenger Corporation's strategy to provide an ... Tuition Reimbursement Program Wenger Corporation's core purpose is to ENRICH LIVES BY ENABLING AND ...

Design Engineer

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

As a Design Engineer, you will contribute to Wenger Corporation's strategy to provide an ... Tuition Reimbursement Program Wenger Corporation's core purpose is to ENRICH LIVES BY ENABLING AND ...

As a Product Design Engineer, you will support the planning, design, and execution of engineering ... They are at the core of the ZF Way that propels our team members towards their utmost success. We ...

As a Product Design Engineer, you will support the planning, design, and execution of engineering ... They are at the core of the ZF Way that propels our team members towards their utmost success. We ...

Core components of Stereotaxis' systems have received regulatory clearance in the United States ... The Design Engineer II is responsible for working with other leadership members to guide and lead ...

Nuclear Engineer

Brooklyn Park, MN

$102K - $123K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Kasson, MN

$99K - $119K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hilltop, MN

$103K - $124K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Duluth, MN

$97K - $117K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Oakdale, MN

$100K - $120K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Dover, MN

$99K - $118K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Plymouth, MN

$104K - $124K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Nicollet, MN

$97K - $116K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Richmond, MN

$94K - $113K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Keewatin, MN

$97K - $116K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

Nuclear Engineer

Medford, MN

$100K - $120K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component ... Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program ...

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Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Core Design Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Core Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Core Design Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering, reactor physics, and thermodynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with simulation and modeling software such as MCNP, SCALE, or CASMO, and familiarity with regulatory codes are essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant reactor core designs, which are critical for nuclear plant operation and public safety.

What are some common challenges faced by Nuclear Core Design Engineers during new reactor projects?

Nuclear Core Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing safety requirements with optimal reactor performance during new projects. They must navigate complex regulatory standards, work with interdisciplinary teams, and ensure that their designs account for fuel efficiency, thermal limits, and long-term reliability. Close collaboration with safety analysts, operations staff, and regulatory bodies is essential to address evolving project needs and unexpected technical issues. Staying current with technological advancements and adapting designs to new materials or methodologies is also a key part of the role.

What is the difference between Nuclear Core Design Engineer vs Nuclear Reactor Engineer?

AspectNuclear Core Design EngineerNuclear Reactor Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and optimizing nuclear reactor cores for safety and efficiencyOperating, monitoring, and maintaining nuclear reactors during operation
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, often with specialization in nuclear engineering, certifications in reactor safetyEngineering degree, nuclear engineering background, reactor operation licenses
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, engineering officesReactor sites, power plants, operational control rooms
Industry UsageUsed during reactor design, development, and safety analysis phasesActive during reactor operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting

The main difference is that Nuclear Core Design Engineers focus on designing and optimizing reactor cores before and during construction, while Nuclear Reactor Engineers are involved in the operation and maintenance of reactors once they are active. Both roles require nuclear engineering expertise but serve different stages of the reactor lifecycle.

What does a Nuclear Core Design Engineer do?

A Nuclear Core Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing the arrangement and performance of fuel assemblies within a nuclear reactor core. Their work ensures the reactor operates safely and efficiently while meeting regulatory requirements and power output goals. This involves complex calculations, simulations, and collaboration with other engineers to assess fuel utilization, thermal limits, and overall core behavior during various operating conditions.
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Core Design Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Nuclear Engineer I/II/Sr. or Pr.

Nuclear Engineer I/II/Sr. or Pr.

Xcel Energy

Minneapolis, MN

$102K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Xcel Energy rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you're looking for.

Responsible for performing a variety of nuclear fuels engineering tasks in the areas of reload core design, reload licensing analyses, and in-core fuel management in support of BWR plant operation. A background in Nuclear Engineering with exceptional problem solving, communication, and teamwork skills is preferred for this position. Individuals in this position may also provide technical guidance and direction to consultants or other Xcel employees in support of in-plant activities and producing high quality, timely and cost-effective engineering solutions to technical problems.

This position will be considered for the corporate office located in Minneapolis, MN.

Primary Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

  • Perform reload core / bundle design, reload licensing, in-core fuel management, and analyses supporting fuel reliability and performance of nuclear fuel.

  • Perform and coordinate engineering assignments in support of the cycle reload project. These activities include reload fuel and core design, in-house and vendor reload licensing analyses, license amendment preparation, Core Monitoring System input preparation, and Startup Physics analyses. Work alone or as part of a project team. Schedule work to meet completion dates and technical requirements

  • Recommend changes in procedures, analysis methods, design, or equipment. Work activities may include on-site support of fuel inspections, fuel and control blade manufacturing oversight, or other special studies as appropriate.

  • Apply sound engineering principles to provide technically correct, timely and cost-effective recommendations.

  • Review and approve design work completed by contractors and/or other engineers and be a key interface with other groups, both internal and external to Xcel Energy.

  • Work effectively in a team environment, as a team leader, mentor, and as a team member.

  • Understand and practice company safety and industrial hygiene policies during the conduct of such activities as core verification, irradiated fuel inspection, and manufacturing oversight.

  • Clearly communicate technical and complex nuclear fuel related topics orally and in writing to all levels of management. This includes collaborating with management to define issues and needs as well as developing and recommending improvement and corrective actions.

  • Participate in Xcel Energy Emergency Response Organization, refueling outages (including irradiated fuel inspections and fuel maintenance), and vendor oversight activities, as assigned

Minimum Requirements

Engineer I

Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or a related technical field from an ABET accredited college or university. 0-2 years of experience. Ability to obtain and maintain qualifications for unescorted access to Xcel Energy's nuclear power plants is an essential requirement of the position. May be required assume emergency response duties and live within 60 or 690 minutes from the nuclear generation station. Required to maintain nuclear "fitness for duty" during off hours if on call or designated emergency response duty. Incumbents must demonstrate satisfactory performance and progress in learning the skills and competencies to be an engineer in the nuclear utility business.

Engineer II

Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or a related technical field from an ABET accredited college or university. 2 years' experience. Ability to obtain and maintain qualifications for unescorted access to Xcel Energy's nuclear power plants is an essential requirement of the position. May be required assume emergency response duties and live within 60 or 90 minutes from the nuclear generation station. May be required to maintain fitness for duty during off hours if on call or designated emergency response duty. Incumbents must demonstrate satisfactory performance and progress in learning the skills and competencies to be an engineer at a career level in the nuclear utility business.

Engineer

Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or a related technical field from an ABET accredited college or university. 6 years of engineering experience with satisfactory performance in nuclear generating plant operations and or maintenance processes is required; equivalent electrical power plant experience industrial, naval or Outreach Engineering Management (OEM) is acceptable in lieu of nuclear generation experience. Ability to obtain and maintain qualifications for unescorted access to Xcel Energy's nuclear power plants is an essential requirement of the position. May be required to assume emergency response duties and live within 60 or 90 minutes from the nuclear generation station. Required to maintain nuclear "fitness for duty" during off hours if on call or designated emergency response duty. Preferred Professional Engineer (PE) license. Advance degree (in engineering or other related technical field).

Sr. Engineer

Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or a related technical field from an ABET accredited college or university. 8 or more years engineering experience with satisfactory performance and demonstrated expertise in problem solving in nuclear generating plants accompanied by demonstrated expertise in at least one engineering discipline area is required; (note: equivalent years of engineering experience in electrical power plant experience industrial, naval or Outreach Engineering Management (OEM) may be considered in lieu of up to one half of nuclear generation experience). Ability to obtain and maintain qualifications for unescorted access to Company's nuclear power plants is an essential requirement of the position. May be required to assume emergency response duties and live within 60 or 90 minutes from the nuclear generation station. Required to maintain nuclear "fitness for duty" during off hours if on call or designated emergency response duty. Preferred: Professional Engineer (PE) license. Advanced degree (in engineering or other related technical field).

Preferred Qualifications

  • At least three years of experience and improving performance in an entry level position.

  • BWR core design experience preferred.

  • PC skills are required in the performance of daily work activities. Proficiency with linux, scripting, and programming is desired.Previous experience using CASMO-SIMULATE.

  • A working knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards, as they pertain to the area of nuclear fuel engineering, is also desirable.

  • M.S. degree in Nuclear Engineering is preferred.

  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, exhibit sound judgment, strong leadership, and assertiveness to resolve issues. Flexibility with changing priorities and changing ways of doing business.

  • Demonstrated initiative, problem analysis, and problem-solving skills.

  • Engineer in Training Certificateor Professional Engineer License

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you're ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Non-BargainingThe anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $77,500.00 to $189,567.00 per yearThis position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

Deadline to Apply: 07/30/26

EEO is the Law |EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)

All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


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About Xcel Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Xcel Energy is a prominent electricity and natural gas service provider serving multiple states in the United States, including Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. Our commitment revolves around delivering essential services to our valued customers. As a trailblazer in the industry, we were the first major US electricity provider with a visionary goal to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 and an ambitious 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, based on 2005 levels. Through innovative electric vehicle initiatives, we actively contribute to carbon reduction not only in our electricity generation but also in the transportation sector within the states we operate. Simultaneously, we remain devoted to ensuring cost-effectiveness for our customers by implementing advanced electricity rates and energy efficiency programs.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1909