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Nuclear Engineer Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parsons Corporation

Nuclear Engineer

$63K - $111K/yr

NUCLEAR ENGINEER When it comes to what you want in your career, if you can imagine it, you can do ... Salary Range: $63,600.00 - $111,300.00 We value our employees and want our employees to take care ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Mid

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Scientific Support) LCAT: Mid Location: Reston, VA Clearance: TS/SCI or Q ... Paid parental leave for birth or adoption * 401k matching up to 5 percent of the base salary * Flex ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Mid

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Scientific Support) LCAT: Mid Location: Reston, VA Clearance: TS/SCI or Q ... Paid parental leave for birth or adoption * 401k matching up to 5 percent of the base salary * Flex ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$104K - $124K/yr

Nuclear Engineer LCAT: Senior Location: Reston, Virginia This position is contingent upon award ... Paid parental leave for birth or adoption * 401k matching up to 5 percent of the base salary * Flex ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$104K - $124K/yr

Nuclear Engineer LCAT: Senior Location: Reston, Virginia This position is contingent upon award ... Paid parental leave for birth or adoption * 401k matching up to 5 percent of the base salary * Flex ...

Radiant

Lead Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$140K - $237K/yr

Radiant's unique, practical approach to nuclear development leverages modern software engineering ... Radiant's new hire compensation package includes base salary, substantial equity grants, and ...

Radiant Industries

Lead Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$140K - $237K/yr

Radiant's unique, practical approach to nuclear development leverages modern software engineering ... Radiant's new hire compensation package includes base salary, substantial equity grants, and ...

Prescient Edge

Mid Nuclear Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$101K - $121K/yr

Job Title Mid Nuclear Engineer Location Reston, VA 20170 US (Primary) Category Intelligence Job ... A competitive salary with performance bonus opportunities. * Comprehensive healthcare benefits ...

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Nuclear Engineer Salary information

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$26K

$105.6K

$150K

How much do nuclear engineer salary jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear engineer salary in the United States is $105,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

While the average nuclear engineer salary is typically below $200,000, highly experienced professionals working in senior roles, management, or specialized industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000, especially with additional certifications and overtime. Such high earnings are uncommon and usually involve extensive experience, advanced skills, or leadership positions within the field.

What is the difference between Nuclear Engineer Salary vs Mechanical Engineer Salary?

AspectNuclear EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Nuclear Engineering or related field, possibly PE licenseBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, possibly PE license
Work EnvironmentNuclear power plants, research facilities, government agenciesManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors
Industry UsageEnergy, defense, researchManufacturing, automotive, aerospace

While both Nuclear Engineers and Mechanical Engineers require a bachelor's degree and professional licensing, Nuclear Engineers often work specifically in nuclear power plants and research facilities, which can influence salary differences. Generally, Nuclear Engineers tend to have higher median salaries due to specialized skills and industry demand.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear physics, engineering principles, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software, radiation detection instruments, and regulatory compliance systems is essential for the technical aspects of the job. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills set outstanding nuclear engineers apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance of nuclear systems and projects.

What factors can influence the salary range for a Nuclear Engineer?

Several factors can impact the salary of a Nuclear Engineer, including level of education, years of experience, geographic location, and the specific industry sector (such as power generation, government, or research). Additionally, obtaining professional certifications or security clearances can enhance earning potential. It's also common for Nuclear Engineers working at larger utilities or in regions with high demand for specialized skills to command higher salaries than those in less competitive markets.

Is nuclear engineering a high paying job?

Nuclear engineering is generally considered a high-paying profession, with median salaries often exceeding national averages for engineering roles. Factors such as advanced technical skills, security clearances, and experience can influence earning potential in this field.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior nuclear engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn salaries around $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, and typically requires working in complex environments with significant responsibility.

What engineers make $500,000?

In the field of engineering, senior-level roles such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain software engineers with extensive experience and specialized skills can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced education, significant experience, and often work in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What is the average salary of a nuclear engineer?

The average salary of a nuclear engineer in the United States is typically between $80,000 and $130,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start around $70,000, while those with advanced degrees or extensive experience can earn upwards of $150,000. Factors such as the employer, industry, and geographic region can significantly influence salary levels. Nuclear engineers working for the federal government or in research and development tend to earn higher salaries.
More about Nuclear Engineer Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Engineer Salary jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Engineer Salary job openings:
What states have the most Nuclear Engineer Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Engineer Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Engineer Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Engineer Salary jobs are:
Nuclear Engineer Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Engineer Salary job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,594 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineer

Parsons Corporation

Remote

$63K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Parsons rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 352 rated engineering

Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!
At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.
Job Description:
NUCLEAR ENGINEER
When it comes to what you want in your career, if you can imagine it, you can do it at Parsons. Imagine a career working with intelligent, diverse people sharing a common quest. Imagine a workplace where you can be yourself. Where you can thrive. Where you can find your next, right now. We've got what you're looking for.
Job Description
Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented nuclear engineer to join our team! In this role you will provide a variety of engineering assignments by applying standard process/nuclear engineering techniques and analyses as a member of the Parsons Federal Engineering Team.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Utilize process and nuclear engineering theories and practices, and company procedures in daily work.
  • Use CAE (computer aided engineering) and CAD (computer aided design) applications.
  • Performs a variety of assignments such as drawings, datasheets and specifications for procurement and construction purposes, utilizing CAE/CAD as applicable.
  • Prepares or assists in preparing fundamental process and nuclear engineering/criticality safety calculations, PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams), P&IDs (Process & Instrumentation Diagrams), material quality take-offs, estimates, and designs.
  • Prepares or assists in preparation of detailed requisitions for material or equipment purchases and in reviewing supplier drawings and/or technical bid analyses.
  • Under the guidance of a senior engineer, supports development of documents pertaining to:
    • Operational and Technical Safety Requirement (OSR, TSR)
    • Spent fuel receipt and handling (including automation and robotics)
    • Spent fuel transfer and loading system (Design of Dissolution Hot Cell)
    • Radioactive and Hazardous Waste Management (Handling and Disposition), Hazardous Material Protection Evaluation
    • Fissile Material Accountability.
  • Provides input to CAD Designer/Drafters working on the same project.
  • Working knowledge project controls activities - scheduling, variance reporting, and cost/budget analysis.

Skills and Competencies
  • Basic knowledge of nuclear engineering.
  • Familiarity with DOE standards and orders related to nuclear facilities.
  • Familiarity with CAD and other PC software packages/applications typically associated with engineering.
  • Effective analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Ability to travel for business, as needed.

Education and Typical Experience
Junior Nuclear Engineer Education:
  • Required: BS in Nuclear Engineering.
  • Strongly Preferred: Engineer in Training (EIT) certification towards taking the PE exam.
  • 3+ years of related work experience in nuclear related industries (project controls experience will be strongly considered).

Mid Level Nuclear Engineer Education:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering (or related field) and typically 8+ years of related work experience.
  • Professional Engineer registration may be required.
  • Proficiency in utilizing CAD and other PC software packages typically associated with engineering is required.

Senior Nuclear Engineer Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Nuclear or Mechanical engineering.
  • Minimum of [20] years of experience in nuclear engineering, with a focus of development of diverse skillsets
  • Familiarity with various nuclear codes and standard, as well as common nuclear engineering software.

Minimum Clearance to Start
  • Ability to obtain a DOE or DOE security clearance.

Security Clearance Requirement:
None
Security Clearance Requirement:
An active Department of Energy (DOE-Q) security clearance is required for this position.
This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.
The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what's next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.
Salary Range: $63,600.00 - $111,300.00
We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!
This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will continue to be posted for an average of 30 days until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.
Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.
We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!
Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer to https://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.

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