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Nuclear Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director - Nuclear Engineering

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$160K - $230K/yr

Thea Energy is hiring for a Director - Nuclear Engineering to lead our nuclear engineering team. This role will orchestrate the nuclear design and safety parameters essential to our first-of-a-kind ...

Director - Nuclear Engineering

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$160K - $230K/yr

Thea Energy is hiring for a Director - Nuclear Engineering to lead our nuclear engineering team. This role will orchestrate the nuclear design and safety parameters essential to our first-of-a-kind ...

As the Director of Nuclear Engineering , you will lead and grow Xcimer's Nuclear Engineering discipline, ensuring the company applies rigorous nuclear engineering practices across all programs ...

As our Nuclear Engineering Data Scientist, you will leverage advanced machine learning techniques, hybrid modeling approaches, and uncertainty quantification to tackle complex problems in nuclear ...

As our Nuclear Engineering Data Scientist, you will leverage advanced machine learning techniques, hybrid modeling approaches, and uncertainty quantification to tackle complex problems in nuclear ...

As our Nuclear Engineering Data Scientist, you will leverage advanced machine learning techniques, hybrid modeling approaches, and uncertainty quantification to tackle complex problems in nuclear ...

As our Nuclear Engineering Data Scientist, you will leverage advanced machine learning techniques, hybrid modeling approaches, and uncertainty quantification to tackle complex problems in nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

$63K - $111K/yr

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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

Collaborate with operations and engineering teams to integrate criticality safety requirements into process design. Advanced Nuclear Systems Analysis * Support modeling and evaluation of advanced ...

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Nuclear Engineering information

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$26K

$105.6K

$150K

How much do nuclear engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear engineering 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.

Do nuclear engineers get paid well?

Nuclear engineers typically earn competitive salaries, with median annual wages above the national average for engineering occupations. Salaries can vary based on experience, education, location, and industry, with those working in specialized roles or advanced facilities often earning higher pay. Certification and expertise in areas like reactor design or radiation safety can also influence compensation.

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

Nuclear engineers typically earn a median annual salary around $120,000, with top earners in specialized roles or with extensive experience reaching salaries close to $200,000. Earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and usually requires advanced positions, management roles, or working in high-paying industries or locations. Certifications, advanced degrees, and experience can influence earning potential but reaching $500,000 is rare in this field.

What jobs can a nuclear engineer get?

A nuclear engineer can work in power plant design and operation, nuclear safety analysis, radiation protection, research and development, and regulatory agencies. They often work with specialized tools and require knowledge of nuclear physics, engineering principles, and safety protocols. Employment settings include energy production, government laboratories, and manufacturing industries.

What are the common career advancement opportunities for nuclear engineers?

Nuclear engineers typically start their careers in entry-level engineering roles focused on system analysis, reactor operation, or project design. With experience, they may advance to supervisory positions, project management, or specialized roles such as reactor licensing and safety analysis. Many nuclear engineers also pursue advanced certifications or graduate degrees to move into research, policy, or senior technical leadership positions. Career progression often depends on technical expertise, leadership abilities, and staying current with industry regulations and advancements.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

In nuclear engineering, salaries of $500,000 or more annually are typically achieved by senior-level professionals with extensive experience, leadership roles, or those working in specialized sectors such as nuclear power plant management, research, or consulting. These positions often require advanced certifications, security clearances, and a strong track record in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Nuclear Engineering position, and why are they important?

Nuclear engineers typically require a degree in nuclear engineering or a related field, with strong knowledge of physics, mathematics, and safety protocols. Proficiency with computer-aided design (CAD) software, reactor simulation tools, and familiarity with NRC regulations or a Professional Engineering (PE) license are often needed. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help individuals excel in multidisciplinary project environments. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation and development of nuclear systems.

What is a Nuclear Engineering job?

A Nuclear Engineering job involves the research, design, development, and maintenance of nuclear systems, including reactors, power plants, and radiation applications. Nuclear engineers ensure the safe and efficient use of nuclear energy and radiation in power generation, medical treatments, and industrial applications. They work on reactor safety, radiation shielding, nuclear fuel management, and compliance with regulatory standards. Many nuclear engineers are employed in energy production, while others contribute to medicine, space exploration, and national defense.

What cities are hiring for Nuclear Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Nuclear Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,594 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Chairperson, Nuclear Engineering

Chairperson, Nuclear Engineering

University of New Mexico

Albuquerque, NM

$95K - $114K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


University Of New Mexico rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 541 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The University of New Mexico School of Engineering seeks a visionary and collaborative leader who can guide the Nuclear Engineering (NE) department to a higher level of excellence. The NE Chair will report directly to the Dean and be an integral and vital part of the School's leadership team. As the department's academic and administrative leader, the NE Chair is responsible for all education, faculty, research, and service activities across Nuclear Engineering.

The Chair oversees the department's operations and budget, manages resources strategically and responsibly, and works with the Dean to encourage philanthropic engagement and support.


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