1

Nuclear Design Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers ... As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the design of system components for ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$85K - $134K/yr

We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers ... As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the design of system components for ...

We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers ... As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the design of system components for ...

We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers ... The System Design Engineering group supports programs for internal and external customers across ...

We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers ... The System Design Engineering group supports programs for internal and external customers across ...

We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers ... The System Design Engineering group supports programs for internal and external customers across ...

We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers ... As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the design of system components for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Design Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$61

$84

$100

How much do nuclear design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear design engineer in Virginia is $84.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81.97 and $92.93 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 often depends on location, company size, and project complexity, with some engineers earning through bonuses and profit sharing.

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

Nuclear design engineers typically earn salaries ranging from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Reaching a $500,000 salary usually requires advanced roles, management positions, or specialized expertise, often supplemented by bonuses or profit sharing. Such high compensation levels are uncommon for standard nuclear engineering roles.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. Nuclear design engineers with extensive experience, security clearances, and working in high-demand sectors may also reach this level, often through bonuses and profit sharing.

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 do nuclear design engineers do?

Nuclear design engineers develop and analyze the design of nuclear reactors and related systems to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations. They use specialized software, perform simulations, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize reactor performance and safety features.
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Nuclear Design Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Nuclear Design Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in VA? For Nuclear Design Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Design Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $175,481 per year, or $84.4 per hour.
Associate to Staff Engineer - Civil Design Surry

Associate to Staff Engineer - Civil Design Surry

Dominion Energy

Surry, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Dominion Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy that powers our customers every day. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company that values safety and collaboration, we're looking for you. You won't just find a job here; you'll find your career. Review the position below and apply today.
Military service members and veterans with ranks from E5-E9, W1-CW5, or O3-O6, plus appropriate equivalent combination of education and years of experience as outlined below will be considered for this opportunity.
Job Summary
The Nuclear Design Engineering department at Surry Nuclear Power Station in Surry, Virginia is seeking a Civil Design Associate Engineer, Engineer, Senior Engineer, or Staff Engineer. This position will be filled at a level commensurate with the successful candidate's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities.
The successful candidate will be responsible for evaluating design modifications to nuclear plant systems including the preparation and review of
  • Design modification packages using the standard design process
  • Site/System/Construction drawings
  • Calculations and analysis to support modification and operation of plant systems
  • Impact on plant design and licensing basis

Additionally perform field support for inspections of plant equipment and structures
Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
The knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience required for this job include the following: Associate Engineer: 0-2 years of relevant engineering experience; Engineer: 2+ years of relevant engineering experience; Senior Engineer: 5+ years of relevant engineering experience; Staff Engineer: 8+ years of relevant engineering experience. The candidate should have a commitment to safety and quality assurance in all aspects of design and operations at the station
-Extensive knowledge of engineering theories, principles, and practices to a broad variety of assignments and related field.
-Extensive skilled in use of advanced techniques and modification and extension of theories, precepts and practices of the field and related sciences and disciplines.
-Full Knowledge of business/financial and contractual matters.
-Recognized expert by other engineers and management in assigned area.
-Provides expert technical advice to other engineers and management in assigned area.
-Skilled in the use of advanced engineering techniques.
-Strong planning and project management skills.
-Strong technical and organizational leadership skills.
-Strong oral and written communication skills (includes technical writing).
-In depth knowledge of various computer applications, with the ability to manipulate personal computer applications and perform engineering calculations using applicable software programs (e.g., Matlab, Excel, etc.).
-Proven decision-making skills.
- Demonstrated ability to think analytically and solve complex problems.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply codes, regulations, and practices.
- Demonstrated ability to process information quickly and effectively manage multiple tasks.
-Equally effective working independently or in team environment
Nuclear employees: Must have at least one year of Nuclear power experience.
REQUIRED ENGINEERING CRITERIA:
For placement of a candidate in the Engineer job series, the following criteria must be met:
Possess a 4-year Engineering degree from an ABET accredited Engineering program based on the year that the Engineering program was accredited by ABET, or
Possess a 4-year Engineering degree from an institution outside of the U.S. which is accredited through the country's own Engineering accrediting body under the Washington Accord as a full signatory, and is a degree that was recognized by the country's accrediting body on or after the date that full signatory status was achieved, or
Possess a 4-year degree in Engineering (non-ABET accredited), Physics, Chemistry, Math or Engineering Technology and a post-graduate Engineering degree from an institution where the undergraduate degree in the same Engineering discipline is ABET-accredited based on the year the Engineering program was accredited by ABET, or
Holds or has previously held a valid U.S. Professional Engineer license.
Preferred Quals:
Familiarity with regulatory requirements for commercial nuclear power plants, including those from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO). Experience with performing 10 CFR 50.59 screens and evaluations. Nuclear Design Engineering experience with relevant analytical capabilities
Previously qualified or ability to qualify in the Standard Design Process, Engineering Calculations, Specifications and similar Nuclear Qualifications
Professional Engineering license, Civil Engineering
Familiarity with Crane design and applications including NUREG-0612
Experience with foundation, steel and concrete structure, pipe support, pipe stress, and rigging
An understanding of Engineering Specifications (Procurement, Design, Installation, etc.)
Knowledge of ASCE, AISC and ACI Codes
Knowledge of primary systems (NSSS) and Balance of Plant (BOP) systems
Education Requirements
Required Degree (equivalency not accepted in lieu of required degree):
Bachelor's in Civil Engineering, structural concentration preferred.
Licenses, Certifications, or Quals Description
Note: Dominion Energy minimum experience and education requirements may exceed stated ANSI standards and candidates must meet the Dominion Energy minimum requirements.
For Nuclear employees, this ANSI standard must be met, all of which is met or exceeded in the Engineer series job summaries with the exception of the Nuclear Power experience requirement of at least 1 year:
ANSI/ANS-3.1-2014, Section 4.6.1 Education requirements: Baccalaureate or associate degree in engineering or related science. Minimum experience for the position: Related experience which shall include 2 years; Nuclear power plant experience to include 1 year.
Working Conditions
Cold Up to 25%
Dust / Grease / Oil Up to 25%
Energized Wires Up to 25%
Fumes Up to 25%
Heat Up to 25%
Loud Noise Up to 25%
Office Work Environment 76 -100%
Outdoors Up to 25%
Pressurized Lines & Valves Up to 25%
Radiation Up to 25%
Travel Up to 25%
Other Working Conditions
Test Description
No Testing Required
Export Control
Certain positions at Dominion Energy may involve access to information and technology subject to export controls under U.S. law. Compliance with these export controls may result in Dominion Energy limiting its consideration of certain applicants.
Other Information
We offer excellent plans and programs for employees. Employees are rewarded with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package which may include: health benefits with coverage for families and domestic partners, vacation, retirement plans, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and much more. To learn more about our benefits, click here dombenefits.com.
Dominion Energy is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin and/or status as a protected veteran or individual with a disability.
You can experience the excitement of our company - it's the difference between taking a job and starting a career.
Top 3 Reasons to Work at Dominion Energy
There are many reasons to work at Dominion Energy, but below are the top three reasons employees have shared with us. Click on each of the links to learn more!
1. Safety Centric Work Environment
2. Generous Pay and Benefits
3. Collaborative & Inclusive Culture

About Dominion Energy
I am your warm cup of coffee in the morning and I light your home at night. I am the cool breeze from your A/C on the hottest day in summer, and the red coil that heats your soup pot on a frigid winter's day. I am sustainable, reliable and affordable.
I am not just any energy... I am Dominion Energy.
We're transforming the way we do business to build a more sustainable future for the planet, our customers, our team and our industry. We're shaping the future of energy in America.
Join us!

Facts:
• 17,000 employees
• Headquarters: Richmond, VA
• 16 states in the US
• $100 billion of assets
• Nearly $35 million in charitable contributions
• 100,000+ volunteer hours recorded in the community
Our Commitment to NetZero by 2050
Dominion Energy is committed to helping address climate change. We have cut emissions sharply as we aim for Net Zero carbon and methane emissions by 2050. Learn more at sustainability.dominionenergy.com.

What Dominion Energy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Dominion Energy logo

About Dominion Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a leader in the clean energy transition, with a clear strategy to achieve Net Zero carbon and methane emissions. Headquartered in Richmond, VA, we're creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Richmond, VA, US

Year founded

1983

Social media