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Nuclear Design Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

Machine Design Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

... nuclear facilities. • Design & Modeling: Create detailed mechanical designs, components, and ... Perform engineering calculations, FEA (Finite Element Analysis), and simulations to test strength ...

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How much do nuclear design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear design engineer in Tennessee is $77.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75.05 and $85.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nuclear design engineer?

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 as a nuclear design engineer?

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 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.

How much do nuclear design engineers make?

Nuclear design engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee?

For Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Nuclear Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Nuclear Design Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in TN?

For Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Nuclear Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Design Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,648 per year, or $77.2 per hour.

Machine Design Engineer

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

$65K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Responsibilities:
We are looking for a machine design engineer to perform design on equipment for new facilities. No PE Required. Will be working on a team of other engineers for creation, development and testing of mechanical systems, industrial machinery and automation equipment using Solidworks for new nuclear facilities.
• Design & Modeling: Create detailed mechanical designs, components, and assemblies using 3D CAD software (SolidWorks).
• Analysis & Simulation: Perform engineering calculations, FEA (Finite Element Analysis), and simulations to test strength and safety.
• Prototyping & Testing: Build, test, and troubleshoot prototypes to evaluate performance, conducting failure analysis to improve designs.
• Documentation: Generate technical drawings, BOMs (Bill of Materials), design specifications, and operation manuals.
  • Collaboration: Work with other engineering disciplines to optimize designs for manufacturability (DFM) and assembly (DFA).
    Qualifications
  • Baccalaureate Degree from an accredited institution in mechanical engineering, and at least 10 years of professional experience in the design and construction of infrastructure projects.

Must be a U.S. citizen

Apply