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Nuclear Engineers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Last Energy

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 ...

Leidos

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 ...

Leidos

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 ...

X Energy LLC

Engineer II, Nuclear

Rockville, MD · Hybrid

$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 ...

New

X Energy LLC

Nuclear Engineer, IV

Rockville, MD · Hybrid

$100K - $120K/yr

... a nuclear reactor or nuclear facility. Job Profile Tasks/Responsibilities * Perform design ... Lead small groups of engineers to solve complex technical problems and deliver high quality ...

New

Last Energy

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 ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$88K/yr

... Engineers website at: OR Evidence of having successfully passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination or any other written test required for professional registration by an engineering ...

System One

Nuclear Engineer V, I&C

Oak Harbor, OH · On-site

$115/hr

Nuclear Engineer V - Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Job Type: Contract Pay Rate: Up to $115/hour DOE Work Model: Onsite Schedule: Full-Time (40 hours/week) Position Overview System One is seeking ...

System One

Nuclear Engineer V, I&C

Oak Harbor, OH · On-site

$115/hr

Nuclear Engineer V - Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Job Type: Contract Pay Rate: Up to $115/hour DOE Work Model: Onsite Schedule: Full-Time (40 hours/week) Position Overview System One is seeking ...

Zachry Group

Engineer III I&C - Nuclear

Stonington, CT · On-site

$98K - $118K/yr

Education Required (minimum): BS in electrical, mechanical, nuclear, chemical, computer or process ... engineers to assist with evaluating conditions, proposing modifications and developing design ...

Zachry Group

Engineer III I&C - Nuclear

Stonington, CT · On-site

$98K - $118K/yr

Responsibilities Zachry Nuclear Engineering, Inc . (ZNE) is currently seeking an Engineer III, I&C ... engineers to assist with evaluating conditions, proposing modifications and developing design ...

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$26K

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$150K

How much do nuclear engineers jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear engineers 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 are some of the typical challenges nuclear engineers face when working on power plant operations or maintenance?

Nuclear engineers working in power plant operations often face the challenge of ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations while maintaining efficient plant performance. They must troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical systems, respond quickly to unexpected issues, and coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including technicians and safety specialists. Managing scheduled maintenance and system upgrades without disrupting plant operations also requires careful planning and clear communication. Staying up-to-date with evolving industry standards and regulatory requirements is essential for long-term success.

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

Nuclear engineers typically earn a median annual salary well below $500,000, with top earners in specialized roles or with extensive experience reaching higher six-figure incomes. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires advanced positions, management responsibilities, or working in high-paying industries such as nuclear power or defense, often combined with advanced certifications and significant experience.

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, a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's or advanced degree in nuclear engineering, is essential. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation software, radiation detection instruments, and relevant safety certifications (such as those from the NRC) is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of nuclear facilities and to address complex technical challenges.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced nuclear engineers working in senior management, specialized research, or consulting roles can earn salaries of $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive expertise, and leadership responsibilities within the energy or defense industries.

What do nuclear engineers do?

Nuclear engineers research, design, operate, and maintain systems and processes that involve nuclear energy and radiation. Their work includes developing nuclear power plants, designing reactor cores, ensuring safety protocols, managing nuclear waste, and finding new uses for nuclear technology in medicine and industry. They also play a crucial role in monitoring operations to ensure compliance with regulations and environmental standards.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced nuclear engineers with advanced certifications, specialized skills, and leadership roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. Such salaries are typically found in senior management, consulting, or highly specialized positions within the nuclear industry, often requiring extensive experience and security clearances.

What is the difference between Nuclear Engineers vs Nuclear Technicians?

AspectNuclear EngineersNuclear Technicians
EducationBachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in nuclear technology
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, and overseeing nuclear systems; often in offices or labsOperating and maintaining nuclear equipment; working in power plants or labs
CertificationsOptional professional engineering license (PE)Technician certifications and licenses
Job FocusResearch, design, safety analysis, and system developmentEquipment operation, maintenance, and safety procedures

Nuclear Engineers focus on designing and analyzing nuclear systems, requiring a bachelor's degree and often a PE license. Nuclear Technicians support these systems by operating and maintaining equipment, typically holding technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the nuclear industry but differ in responsibilities, education, and work environment.

What can you do as a nuclear engineer?

A nuclear engineer designs, develops, and maintains nuclear systems such as reactors, radiation shielding, and safety protocols. They work in power plants, research facilities, or regulatory agencies, often using specialized tools and adhering to strict safety standards. Their work involves analyzing nuclear processes, ensuring compliance with regulations, and improving reactor efficiency and safety.
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What states have the most Nuclear Engineers jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Engineers jobs include:
Nuclear Engineers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Engineers job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% 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 - Radiological

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Last Energy

Austin, TX • On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Last Energy seeks an experienced Radiological Engineer to support the safety and licensing analysis for the PWR-20 micro nuclear reactor. 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 & Responsibilities
  • Determine core and coolant radiological source terms
  • Determine neutron and gamma radiation fields
  • Calculate the dose due to theoretical accidents and the impact on surrounding areas
  • Participate in and support interfaces with customer and regulatory authorities to obtain regulatory approval of the Last Energy reactor core design, codes, and methods
  • Prepare and review safety analyses, calculation files, and associated records
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Nuclear Engineering, or a related degree (e.g., physics with nuclear concentration)
  • 5+ years of applicable experience in PWR or BWR radiological evaluations
  • Proficiency in MCNP, SCALE, RADTRAD, or other nuclear industry analysis code as well as scripting and coding with PYTHON or EXCEL VB
  • Positive and effective team interaction skills and value positive peer relationships
  • Effective written and oral communication skills

Apply