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Nuclear Core Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Last Energy

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that ... core design, codes, and methods * Prepare and review safety analyses, calculation files, and ...

Last Energy

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that ... core design, codes, and methods * Prepare and review safety analyses, calculation files, and ...

ReNuke Services

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Nuclear Civil Design Engineer III

Southport, NC · On-site

$88.80/hr

DNJP23480 - Nuclear Civil Design Engineer III - Southport, NC - 3 years ReNuke Services is seeking a Nuclear Civil Design Engineer III for our client's site in Southport, NC! Description: The Duke ...

ReNuke Services

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Nuclear Digital Design Engineer SME

Seneca, SC · On-site

$104.11/hr

ReNuke Services is seeking a Nuclear Digital Design Engineer Subject Matter Expert for our client's site in Seneca, SC! Description: Workers at this level solve more complex problems in engineering ...

Xcel Energy

Nuclear Engineer I/II/Sr. or Pr.

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$102K - $123K/yr

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 ...

ReNuke Services

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Nuclear Digital Design Engineer SME

Seneca, SC · On-site

$104.11/hr

ReNuke Services is seeking a Nuclear Digital Design Engineer Subject Matter Expert for our client's site in Seneca, SC! Description: Workers at this level solve more complex problems in engineering ...

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Nuclear Core Design Engineer information

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How much do nuclear core design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear core design engineer in the United States is $85.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82.69 and $93.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
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Nuclear Core Design Engineer jobs near you
Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Last Energy

Austin, TX • On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Last Energy seeks an experienced Radiological Engineer to support the safety and licensing analysis for the PWR-20 micro nuclear reactor. This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that the PWR-20 design meets radiation safety and accident dose requirements.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
  • Determine core and coolant radiological source terms
  • Determine neutron and gamma radiation fields
  • Calculate the dose due to theoretical accidents and the impact on surrounding areas
  • Participate in and support interfaces with customer and regulatory authorities to obtain regulatory approval of the Last Energy reactor core design, codes, and methods
  • Prepare and review safety analyses, calculation files, and associated records
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Nuclear Engineering, or a related degree (e.g., physics with nuclear concentration)
  • 5+ years of applicable experience in PWR or BWR radiological evaluations
  • Proficiency in MCNP, SCALE, RADTRAD, or other nuclear industry analysis code as well as scripting and coding with PYTHON or EXCEL VB
  • Positive and effective team interaction skills and value positive peer relationships
  • Effective written and oral communication skills

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