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Nuclear Design Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Project Engineer

Loveland, CO · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Nuclear or high hazardous remote special purpose machinery design experience and knowledge of nuclear design procedures a plus. * Professional Engineer or working towards achieving. * Experience with ...

Sr. Project Engineer

Loveland, CO · Hybrid

$101K - $139K/yr

Nuclear or high hazardous remote special purpose machinery design experience and knowledge of nuclear design procedures a plus. * Professional Engineer or working towards achieving. * Experience with ...

Sr. Project Engineer

Loveland, CO · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Nuclear or high hazardous remote special purpose machinery design experience and knowledge of nuclear design procedures a plus. * Professional Engineer or working towards achieving. * Experience with ...

Nuclear Engineer

Craig, CO

$100K - $119K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Dinosaur, CO

$93K - $112K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Evans, CO

$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

Hudson, CO

$110K - $132K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Eaton, CO

$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

Ellicott, CO

$91K - $109K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Georgetown, CO

$103K - $123K/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 Design Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$65

$89

$106

How much do nuclear design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear design engineer in Colorado is $89.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86.97 and $98.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Nuclear Design Engineer job?

A Nuclear Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing nuclear systems, components, or reactors. They work on fuel assemblies, shielding, cooling systems, and safety mechanisms to ensure efficient and secure nuclear operations. Their role involves applying physics, engineering principles, and regulatory standards to develop safe and effective nuclear technology. These engineers collaborate with scientists, regulatory bodies, and project teams to ensure compliance and innovation in nuclear energy or research applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Nuclear Design Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Design Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant Bachelor's or Master's degree. Familiarity with industry-standard modeling software (such as MCNP or SCALE), CAD tools, and adherence to regulations like NRC or ASME codes are essential, and certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills set standout candidates apart in this field. These capabilities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant nuclear system designs that meet rigorous industry and safety standards.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior nuclear design engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation varies based on location, employer, and level of expertise, often including bonuses and benefits.

Can you make $500,000 as a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear design engineers can earn high salaries, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in senior or specialized roles. While some senior nuclear engineers in high-demand areas may approach or exceed $500,000 annually, such compensation is typically reserved for those with significant expertise and leadership positions. Entry-level or mid-career salaries are generally lower, often ranging from $80,000 to $150,000 per year.

What are some typical challenges a Nuclear Design Engineer may encounter on the job?

Nuclear Design Engineers often face complex technical challenges, such as optimizing reactor core configurations for safety and efficiency, adhering to strict regulatory requirements, and ensuring accurate modeling of nuclear systems. They may also need to troubleshoot unexpected design issues, interpret extensive technical data, and keep up with advancements in nuclear technology and safety protocols. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and safety engineers—requires strong collaboration and communication. Navigating these challenges not only sharpens problem-solving skills but also contributes significantly to both personal professional development and the overall safety and success of nuclear projects.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced nuclear design engineers with advanced expertise, leadership roles, or specialized skills can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior management or consulting positions. Such salaries often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand or high-security environments.

What does a nuclear design engineer do?

A nuclear design engineer develops and analyzes designs for nuclear reactors and related systems to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. They use specialized software, perform simulations, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams throughout the design process, often requiring knowledge of nuclear physics, engineering principles, and safety standards.
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in CO? For Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Design Engineer job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $186,118 per year, or $89.5 per hour.
Mechanical Design Engineers-Kiewit Nuclear Solutions 1

Mechanical Design Engineers-Kiewit Nuclear Solutions 1

Kiewit Corporation

Arvada, CO • On-site, Remote

$77K - $105K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Kiewit Corporation rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 79 rated construction


Job description

Requisition ID: 181320 

Job Level: Entry Level 

Home District/Group: Kiewit Nuclear Solutions 

Department: Design Engineering 

Market: Nuclear 

Employment Type: Full Time 
 

Position Overview

Are you looking for an opportunity to be a part of a new, emerging nuclear market? Our nuclear safety culture is strong at Kiewit Nuclear Solutions. We are seeking experienced Mechanical Design Engineers to join our team. At Kiewit, we are an innovative team of engineers and designers that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff leads and collaborates with Kiewit's module fabrication and construction teams to approach construction-driven engineering with a focus on safe, cost effective, and innovative designs that achieve client expectations and further Kiewit's legacy of excellence. In an ever-changing job market, we offer a rare opportunity to be a part of a stable company with a proven history of success. Your role will be essential to our operations, ensuring that your contributions are valued and impactful within Kiewit Nuclear Solutions.

District Overview

Kiewit Nuclear Solutions. is a full-service engineering, project management, and construction provider operating across North America. Our experience and expertise span all aspects of the nuclear-related market from carbon-free, small modular reactors to Dept of Energy science, and environmental and nuclear security mission capabilities. With these broad capabilities, we operate in the power utility, renewable energy, industrial, and infrastructure markets.  As part of Kiewit, we are integrated with 135 years of construction and engineering excellence that provides holistic solutions, differentiating our team from the rest of the industry.
Our rapidly growing nuclear solutions business has opened new locations across North America to strengthen our market presence while executing work within the communities we live within and support. We are committed to build upon our history as one of the safest companies to work for by equipping our craft and staff with the best technology, processes, equipment, tools, and safety programs available.
We are an innovative team that prides itself on excellence through continuous improvement and an unwavering commitment to deliver for our clients. Our staff collaborates with Kiewit's vast internal network of resources that span heavy civil and infrastructure, vertical and commercial buildings, industrial, as well our oil and gas and power generation markets, to drive safe and cost-effective solutions that achieve client expectations and further Kiewit's core values of People, Integrity, Excellence, and Stewardship.
On our team, you'll have the opportunity to see, design and construct more than you ever imagined. Working hard will not only bring you satisfaction from a job well done, but it will help propel your career forward faster than you might expect. Kiewit's culture encourages training, developing your skills, and tailoring your experience and knowledge to allow you to take on projects that impact millions across North America. With top-notch health benefits, a wealth-building 401k plan, and unbeatable growth opportunities, joining Kiewit can bring a lifetime of personal success and satisfaction.

Location
  • The primary job locations include Lenexa, KS; Oak Ridge, TN; Lonetree, CO; Houston, TX; Aiken, SC. Occasional hybrid or remote work permitted in coordination with your supervisor. 

Responsibilities
  • Project Execution: Carry out integrated engineering processes to meet project goals and deadlines.
  • Technical Documentation: Author and review designs, specifications, analyses, and drawings in line with engineering standards.
  • Design Development: Create and assess concept drawings for equipment using multidisciplinary input.
  • Problem Solving: Identify, define, and resolve issues within assigned scope.
  • Quality & Delivery: Ensure compliance with strict quality assurance standards and timely project delivery.
  • Travel: Occasional travel required (less than 20%) #LI-LH1
  • #LI-LH1
Qualifications

 

  • Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited four-year university.
  • Experience: 15+ years of experience as a Mechanical Engineer. 7-10+ years in commercial or DOE nuclear design is desired. FE/EIT recommended; PE license is preferred.
  • Technical Expertise:
      • Proficient in ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel and piping codes.
      • Skilled in engineering design principles (e.g., GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, interference checks).
      • Experienced in equipment design and procurement using pertinent industry codes.
      • Familiar with creating PFDs, P&IDs, and general arrangement drawings for equipment packages.
  • Collaboration: Proven ability to work with engineers and fabricators to develop designs and drawings.
  • Soft Skills: Strong attention to detail, communication, organization, analytical thinking, and problem-solving.
Working Conditions

Other Requirements:
    Regular, reliable attendance
    Work productively and meet deadlines timely
    Communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment
    Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
    Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
    FIELD ROLES ONLY May work at various different locations and conditions may vary

Base Compensation: $125,000/yr - $130,000/yr

(Actual compensation is subject to variation due to such factors as education, experience, skillset, and/or location)

We offer our fulltime staff employees a comprehensive benefits package that's among the best in our industry, including top-tier medical, dental and vision plans covering eligible employees and dependents, voluntary wellness and employee assistance programs, life insurance, disability, retirement plans with matching, and generous paid time off.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.


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About Kiewit

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kiewit Infrastructure Engineering's Design-Build team is driving clients to turn to Kiewit during all stages of design-build projects. Through our integrated design and construction approach, our multi-disciplinary team works together to improve schedule, control costs and minimize risk. Our construction-focused engineers work collaboratively with our estimators and builders to design solutions that are innovative, constructible, and designed with a focus on safety. Clients benefit from the proven processes and tools used by Kiewit to minimize project risk. We are an in-house resource that supports projects throughout the company. Our staff shares experiences gained, innovative concepts, and best practices for all projects that we support.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1884