ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Nuclear Fuel Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Framatome North America

Mechanic II

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$24.70 - $32.30/hr

... air handlers, compressors, ventilation systems) * Fork truck (sit-down, stand-up, and/or reach ... nuclear fuel technologies, and next-gen reactor innovations that keep the lights on. At Framatome ...

Framatome North America

Mechanic II

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$24.70 - $32.30/hr

... air handlers, compressors, ventilation systems) * Fork truck (sit-down, stand-up, and/or reach ... nuclear fuel technologies, and next-gen reactor innovations that keep the lights on. At Framatome ...

Framatome North America

Mechanic II

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$24.70 - $32.30/hr

... air handlers, compressors, ventilation systems) * Fork truck (sit-down, stand-up, and/or reach ... nuclear fuel technologies, and next-gen reactor innovations that keep the lights on. At Framatome ...

All JobsNuclear Fuel Handler Jobs

Nuclear Fuel Handler information

See salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do nuclear fuel handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear fuel handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get a job at a nuclear power plant?

Getting a job as a nuclear fuel handler can be competitive due to strict safety and qualification requirements. Candidates typically need relevant training, certifications, and experience working in regulated environments, which can make the hiring process challenging for some applicants.

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

Nuclear fuel handlers typically earn lower salaries than nuclear engineers, with average annual wages ranging from $70,000 to $100,000. Achieving a $500,000 salary as a nuclear engineer is uncommon and usually requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, management roles, or working in specialized or high-cost-of-living areas.

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

To excel as a Nuclear Fuel Handler, you need a solid understanding of nuclear physics, radiation safety, and mechanical operations, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical certification and completion of specialized nuclear training. Familiarity with radiation detection equipment, fuel handling tools, and adherence to NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission) safety protocols are essential. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong communication skills are important soft skills for this role. These abilities are critical to ensuring the safe and precise handling of nuclear fuel, minimizing risks, and maintaining regulatory compliance.

How much do nuclear fuel handlers make?

Nuclear fuel handlers typically earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They work in controlled environments, often requiring specialized training and safety protocols.

What is a Nuclear Fuel Handler job?

A Nuclear Fuel Handler is responsible for the safe handling, transportation, and installation of nuclear fuel in power plants or research facilities. They follow strict safety protocols to minimize radiation exposure and ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines. Their duties may include inspecting fuel assemblies, operating specialized equipment, and assisting with reactor refueling. This role requires extensive training in radiation safety, technical procedures, and regulatory compliance.

What is the highest paying nuclear job?

The highest paying nuclear jobs are typically senior reactor operators, nuclear engineers, and nuclear project managers, with salaries often exceeding $100,000 annually. These roles require advanced technical skills, certifications, and experience working in nuclear power plants or related facilities. Specialized positions involving safety oversight and regulatory compliance tend to offer the highest compensation in the nuclear industry.

What does a typical day look like for a Nuclear Fuel Handler and with whom will I collaborate?

As a Nuclear Fuel Handler, your typical day involves carefully transporting, loading, and unloading nuclear fuel assemblies, monitoring radiation levels, and upholding stringent safety procedures throughout each operation. You will frequently collaborate with nuclear engineers, reactor operators, radiation safety officers, and maintenance personnel to ensure all handling and storage protocols are precisely followed. Most work is conducted within highly secured, controlled environments with a strong emphasis on teamwork and adherence to operational timelines. This role also involves thorough daily reporting and regular safety briefings to maintain transparency and compliance.

More about Nuclear Fuel Handler jobs
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Fuel Handler jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Fuel Handler jobs are:
Nuclear Fuel Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Fuel Handler job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.

Auxiliary Fuel Handler

Constellation Energy Generation, LLC.

Braceville, IL • On-site

$40.15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Who We Are
As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.
Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.
Total Rewards
Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program; comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs; disability and life insurance benefits; paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days; and much more.
Starting pay rate $40.15/hr (non-negotiable)
Primary Purpose of Position
Responsible for the maintenance and surveillance of the Refuel Bridge and for serving as the primary operator for fuel movement.
Primary Duties and Accountabilities
  • Conduct fuel receipt, inspection, preparation, and movement, including operation of cranes and fuel handling systems.
  • Perform all fuel pool and dry cask storage operations, including cleanup, storage, cask preparation, loading, drying, sealing assistance, movement, and packaging of irradiated materials.
  • Receive, store, prepare, and package refueling equipment (e.g., filter units, tooling, lifting devices, plugs) for use or shipment.
  • Support IVVI/IS work, decontamination of equipment and floors, and cavity wall washing.
  • Set up and remove flood-up/drain-down equipment (e.g., flange protectors, cattle chutes, weir plates).
  • Install and maintain foreign material exclusion (FME) areas; retrieve foreign materials as assigned.
  • Support outage activities including setup, mobilization, demobilization, and restoration of refuel areas and containment spaces.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Successful completion of screening exam

Preferred Qualifications
  • ANSI 18.1-1971 qualified (minimum of 3 years of experience in one or more crafts)
  • Demonstrated ability to learn and apply basic maintenance operation skills
  • Experience in fuel handling, mechanical maintenance, construction, heavy equipment operation, and material handling (including operation of forklifts, cranes, hoists, and grapples)
  • Possession of a Combined Operating License (COL)

Apply