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Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer

Mosheim, TN · On-site

$87K - $104K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Sparta, TN · On-site

$80K - $96K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Selmer, TN · On-site

$77K - $92K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Arlington, TN · On-site

$87K - $105K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Millersville, TN · On-site

$93K - $111K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Somerville, TN · On-site

$85K - $102K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Athens, TN · On-site

$82K - $98K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Lakeland, TN · On-site

$86K - $103K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Saltillo, TN · On-site

$79K - $94K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Germantown, TN · On-site

$88K - $105K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Lexington, TN · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Ridgetop, TN · On-site

$84K - $100K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Milan, TN · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Columbia, TN · On-site

$89K - $107K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Adams, TN · On-site

$87K - $104K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Ardmore, TN · On-site

$83K - $100K/yr

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

Nuclear Engineer

Fayetteville, TN · On-site

$88K - $105K/yr

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

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Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$23.6K

$95.8K

$136.1K

How much do nuclear engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear engineer in Tennessee is $95,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,400.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, mathematics, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation software, radiation detection tools, and adherence to regulatory certifications such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in complex, safety-critical environments. These competencies are essential to ensure safe nuclear operations, regulatory compliance, and innovative solutions in energy or medical applications.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear engineers in ensuring safety and regulatory compliance?

Nuclear engineers often encounter the challenge of navigating complex safety protocols and strict regulatory requirements to ensure the safe operation of nuclear facilities. This involves staying current with evolving regulations, conducting thorough risk assessments, and collaborating closely with safety inspectors and governmental agencies. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial, as even minor oversights can have significant consequences. Proactively addressing these challenges is an integral part of the role and helps maintain both public safety and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Nuclear Engineer vs Nuclear Technician?

AspectNuclear EngineerNuclear Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or related field; often advanced degrees for specializationAssociate's degree or technical certification in nuclear technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and oversee nuclear systems; work in offices, labs, or plant control roomsAssist in operation and maintenance of nuclear equipment; work directly in nuclear plants or labs
Industry UsageDesigning reactors, safety systems, and research projectsMonitoring plant operations, conducting tests, and supporting technical tasks

While both roles are vital in the nuclear industry, Nuclear Engineers focus on designing and developing nuclear systems, requiring higher education and analytical skills. Nuclear Technicians support these systems through hands-on operational tasks, often with technical certifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What jobs can nuclear engineers do?

Nuclear engineers design, develop, and oversee nuclear systems used for energy production, medical applications, and research. They work in power plants, research facilities, government agencies, and private industry, often requiring knowledge of radiation safety, thermodynamics, and nuclear physics. Certification and security clearances may be necessary for certain positions.

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Nuclear Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Nuclear Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $95,839 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Nuclear Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Boston Government Services, LLC
Business Management Consulting • 51 - 200 employees

$85K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Boston Government Services, LLC. (BGS) has created this Evergreen Talent Pool post for gathering qualified candidates for a position relating to Nuclear Engineer to support our clients in Oak Ridge, TN, and Idaho Falls, ID. 


BGS is an engineering, technology, and security firm helping to advance missions of national importance for government programs, national laboratories, national security facilities, nuclear operations, and complex projects. We support clients at every stage, from strategic planning and program management to the execution of engineering and technical activities. We work to attract and retain the best talent because the best talent delivers the best results for our clients. Our capabilities are based on our experience in complex, secure, and highly regulated environments. We leverage our experience and capabilities to provide mission-driven solutions tuned to our client's mission needs and strategic direction.


Work that Matters. People that Matter More. At BGS, we believe meaningful work starts with great people. We foster a culture built on respect, collaboration, and accountability—where employees are empowered to contribute ideas, grow professionally, and make an impact. We care about our employees’ well-being through competitive benefits, clear expectations, and an environment that values both excellence and connection.


If you align with BGS’ company values and culture, we would love for you to explore opportunities to join our growing team by checking out the job description below!


Responsibilities:

  • Proficiency with criticality safety codes and software tools, such as MCNP (Monte Carlo N-Particle), SCALE, KENO, or similar computational tools used for radiation transport and criticality safety analysis.
  • Hands-on experience with criticality safety assessments, including designing, evaluatingand reviewing systems and processes to ensure they meet safety standards
  • Experience in performing safety evaluations and risk assessments related to nuclear processes, such as fuel fabrication, enrichment, transportation, and storage.


Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field plus 5-10 years of direct experience required, or an MS with 3-7 years' experience.
  • Successful drug screening.
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security or clearance badge.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.


Preferred Qualifications: 

  • BA/BS Degree in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, plus 18 years of direct experience required, or an MS with 15 years' experience.
  • Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering or a related discipline, especially with a focus in reactor physics, neutron transport, or criticality safety.
  • Familiarity with nuclear fuel cycle operations, such as enrichment, reprocessing, or fuel fabrication.


Location/Work Arrangement:

  • This position is available in Oak Ridge, TN, Idaho Falls, ID, and remote.
  • Schedule is full-time, Monday - Friday 40 hours per week.


Benefits:

BGS offers a competitive total compensation package to eligible employees. Benefits include Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Paid Vacation, 401K, Long and Short-Term Disability.


EEO:

BGS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.


Exclusive Agreement Disclaimer:

BGS has standing contracts with federal agencies throughout the United States. We require an affirmative exclusive agreement to represent all candidates to our clients. By submitting this application, you are consenting to allow BGS to represent you as a candidate for the role in which you are applying.


This position is available in Oak Ridge, TN, Idaho Falls, ID, and remote.
Schedule is full-time, Monday - Friday 40 hours per week.