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Nuclear Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer - Mid and Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, engineering technologies, or a physical science field. Description This vital position supports defense analytical requirements with enhanced scientific ...

Nuclear Engineer - Mid and Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, engineering technologies, or a physical science field. Description This vital position supports defense analytical requirements with enhanced scientific ...

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

In this role, you will apply advanced nuclear engineering principles in support of counterproliferation efforts and nuclear survivability (hardness) system design. Responsibilities include conducting ...

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Reston, VA

$102K - $122K/yr

In this role, you will apply advanced nuclear engineering principles in support of counterproliferation efforts and nuclear survivability (hardness) system design. Responsibilities include conducting ...

Principal Nuclear Engineer SME

Reston, VA

$102K - $122K/yr

This role offers the opportunity to apply advanced nuclear engineering expertise to some of the nation's most challenging counterproliferation and nuclear survivability problems. The successful ...

-- Nuclear Weapon Effects SME (T)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$113K - $135K/yr

MINIMUM SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS:  DoD Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility (TS/SCI)  Masters of Science degree in physics, nuclear engineering, or related discipline from an accredited ...

-- Nuclear Weapon Effects SME (T)

Arlington, VA · On-site

$113K - $135K/yr

MINIMUM SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS: • DoD Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility (TS/SCI) • Masters of Science degree in physics, nuclear engineering, or related discipline from an accredited ...

Showing results 21-40

Nuclear Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$25.8K

$104.7K

$148.7K

How much do nuclear engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear engineering in Virginia is $104,689.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can a nuclear engineer get?

A nuclear engineer can work in power plant design and operation, nuclear safety analysis, radiation protection, and research and development. They often work in environments such as nuclear facilities, laboratories, or government agencies, and may require knowledge of nuclear physics, engineering principles, and safety protocols.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in nuclear engineering?

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 nuclear engineering?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Nuclear Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Nuclear Engineering jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Nuclear Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Engineering job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,689 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Nuclear Engineer - Mid and Sr

Nalley Consulting

Reston, VA • On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Join the Nalley Consulting team as a Nuclear Engineer.
Position: Nuclear Engineer (Scientific Support)
LCATs: Mid and Sr
Location: Reston, VA
Required Clearance: TS/SCI or Q clearance. CI poly required; those with active CI polys will have preference.
Required experience: 3+ years of experience supporting nuclear engineering research
Required education: Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, engineering technologies, or a physical science field.
Description
This vital position supports defense analytical requirements with enhanced scientific / engineering research and reverse engineering analysis / characterizations.
The role also supports defense analytical requirements with facility and vulnerability assessments on foreign nuclear capabilities.
This includes, but not limited to:
  • Nuclear engineering
  • Thermo-hydraulics
  • Seismic / earthquake
  • Physics
  • Computational science
  • Fission reactor engineering.

Other desired qualifications:
  • Understanding of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or missile programs.
  • Work experience at a national-level agency.
  • Demonstrated ability to produce and comply with IC tradecraft standards.

ABOUT NALLEY CONSULTING
Nalley Consulting is a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business working with prime partners to staff Department of Defense and Intelligence Community positions. Created by a U.S. Navy intelligence veteran, Nalley Consulting has grown to include multiple IDIQ vehicles in several states.
Nalley Consulting fringe benefits include:
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision benefits
  • PTO
  • 11 paid federal holidays
  • Tuition assistance
  • Paid military-reserve leave
  • Paid parental leave for birth or adoption
  • 401k matching up to 5 percent of the base salary
  • Flex time
  • Company-paid short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance.