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Nuclear Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer IV

Rockville, MD · On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

Execute nuclear engineering assignments with clear and specified objectives; utilize conventional specifications and/or Interface Control Documents and plans. * Recommend system design alterations ...

Nuclear Engineer

Madison, WI

$99K - $118K/yr

This Nuclear Engineer will work with Realta's engineering and scientific teams to provide critical engineering and design input on Realta's technology development roadmap. The Nuclear Engineer will ...

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX

$97K - $117K/yr

This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that the PWR-20 design meets radiation safety and accident dose requirements. Key Duties ...

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that the PWR-20 design meets radiation safety and accident dose requirements. Key Duties ...

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that the PWR-20 design meets radiation safety and accident dose requirements. Key Duties ...

Nuclear Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$111K - $133K/yr

We are seeking a Nuclear Engineer with expertise in particle transportation, Monte Carlo simulation, and radiation shielding to support our fusion facility. The ideal candidate will have a strong ...

Mid Nuclear Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$101K - $121K/yr

Job Title Mid Nuclear Engineer Location Reston, VA 20170 US (Primary) Category Intelligence Job Type Full-Time Career Level Staff Education Bachelor's Degree Travel Security Clearance Required TS/SCI ...

Nuclear Engineer

Badger, AK

$101K - $121K/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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Nuclear Engineer information

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$26K

$105.6K

$150K

How much do nuclear engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear engineer 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.

What Is a Nuclear Engineer?

As a nuclear engineer, you work in a nuclear power facility or research facility to design instruments and processes that make it easier to draw energy from nuclear material. You may also come up with new reactor designs that use different types of materials. A nuclear engineer does not always work on equipment for power plants; sometimes you work to create technology like new medical measuring devices. A nuclear engineer can also work on propulsion systems like those in nuclear-powered military vessels.

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 are nuclear engineers?

Nuclear engineers are professionals who research, design, operate, and maintain systems and processes that involve nuclear energy and radiation. They often work on developing nuclear power plants, medical diagnostic equipment, or radiation safety protocols. Their responsibilities include ensuring the safe use of nuclear materials, troubleshooting problems, and improving efficiency and safety measures in nuclear technology. Nuclear engineers play a critical role in both energy production and medical applications. They typically work for government agencies, research institutions, or private energy companies.

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 cities are hiring for Nuclear Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Nuclear Engineer jobs? The top employers for Nuclear Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Nuclear Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,594 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Nuclear Engineer IV

X Energy LLC

Rockville, MD • On-site, Remote

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company career page, www.x-energy.com/careers/. We will never ask you to provide payment information as part of the recruiting process. If anyone claiming to represent X-energy directs you in a manner otherwise, please contact us at www.x-energy.com/contact-us.
Job Description
This role is responsible for performing engineering tasks associated with designing, developing, and conducting analyses of a nuclear reactor or nuclear facility.
Job Profile Tasks/Responsibilities
  • Perform design, analysis, and evaluation in assigned projects using sound engineering principles and adhering to business standards, practices, procedures, and product / program requirements.
  • Lead the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document, without close supervision and some latitude for independent judgment.
  • Provide feedback and guidance to more junior team members with the execution of the core tasks and responsibilities listed in the Job Profile Task/Responsibilities section of this document.
  • Lead small groups of engineers to solve complex technical problems and deliver high quality engineering work products on time and within budget.
  • Collaborate in planning, scheduling, and organizing detailed phases of engineering work.
  • Collaborate in the technical oversight and direction of internal or external design teams.
  • Facilitate and assist in the assessment of customer needs and capture requirements and functions related to nuclear engineering.
  • Execute nuclear engineering assignments with clear and specified objectives; utilize conventional specifications and/or Interface Control Documents and plans.
  • Recommend system design alterations and enhancements to improve quality of products and/or procedures from an assembly, transportation, construction, commissioning, operations, maintenance, and/or decommissioning perspective.
  • Lead reviews and presentations for internal company design reviews and customer design reviews regarding nuclear design.
  • Organize engineering efforts in assigned areas between specialty and other engineering groups or disciplines, with the client, suppliers, contractors, or other groups as required.
  • Maintain a professional demeanor and behavior at all times, in all forms of communication.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by manager.

Job Profile Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or related degree from an accredited institution.
  • Typically, ten years of experience in an engineering role.
    • A master's degree in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of two years of experience.
    • A Ph.D. in engineering or related field (may include a combination of experience obtained through an academic institution, e.g., design projects, research, or design teams, as well as professional experience) may be in lieu of three years of experience.
    • Previous experience at X-energy exceeding performance standards may be in lieu of years of experience.
  • Possess technical experience and proven expertise in one or more of the following areas:
    • Reactor core design and analysis.
    • Radiation shielding design and analysis.
    • Nuclear fuel analysis and qualification.
    • Criticality safety.
    • Reactor multiphysics analysis, especially pertaining to transient analysis.
    • Nuclear materials and chemistry.
    • Nuclear analysis software development, verification and validation.
    • Other areas of nuclear engineering or nuclear physics relevant to the design and analysis of small modular reactors, microreactors, and nuclear facilities.

Location: 530 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD
Work Site Expectations: 4 days in office, 1 day remote
Travel Expectations: 10% (as needed for project assignment)
Hours: Standard office hours are 8:00am ET to 5:00pm ET, Monday -Friday
Compensation
As required by Maryland and other applicable state law, X Energy, LLC (X-energy) lists the expected compensation range for a publicly advertised job opportunity based upon the job requirements (e.g. education/training, experience, skill sets, etc.). Individual candidates who meet the job requirements for the posted position will be offered a salary within this range based on their respective levels of education/training, experience, and other qualifications unique to them. Salary ranges may vary based on the specific office location and region referenced in the posting to take into consideration differences in cost of living and may not be reflective of all regions. Please note that compensation ranges listed for US job postings reflect base salary only and do not include benefits or other incentives.
Offers within the posted salary range are commensurate with the individual's qualifications for the position, along with a view on internal equity, market data, and room for growth. The salary range for this position is:
$158,000- $183,000
Position Job Classification
Full time - Exempt
Benefits
X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401K plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental /Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports the continuing education of our employees.
An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
X Energy, LLC participates in E-Verify. Please visit the links below for more information about E-Verify and the protection of your Right to Work.
Right To Work Link: If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away (e-verify.gov)
E-Verify Participation Link: E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish