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Nuclear Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ReNuke Services is seeking a Nuclear Mechanical Planner III for our client"s site in Seneca, SC DESCRIPTION: Facilitate implementation of the annual work plan for all projects on the planning horizon.

... Mechanical, Chemical, or Electrical engineering and at least 2+ years of experience in Navy nuclear or commercial nuclear power plants. Minimum requirements include: * Bachelor's degree or higher in ...

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Nuclear Mechanic information

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$50K

$87.7K

$143.5K

How much do nuclear mechanic jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear mechanic in the United States is $87,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do nuclear technicians make good money?

Nuclear technicians typically earn a high salary due to the specialized skills, technical training, and certifications required for the role. According to industry data, the median annual wage is significantly above the national average, reflecting the safety and expertise needed in nuclear power plants and research facilities.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a Nuclear Mechanic?

As a Nuclear Mechanic, your daily responsibilities often include performing inspections, routine maintenance, and repairs on mechanical systems and components within nuclear facilities. You may work closely with engineers, operators, and safety personnel to ensure all equipment operates safely and efficiently, while strictly adhering to safety protocols and regulatory standards. Tasks can range from troubleshooting pumps and valves to calibrating instruments and documenting all work for compliance purposes. You'll typically work as part of a specialized team, ensuring clear communication and coordination to maintain a safe and reliable plant operation. The role offers a dynamic work environment with ongoing learning opportunities due to the complexity and critical nature of nuclear power systems.

How do I become a nuclear technician?

To become a nuclear technician, you typically need an associate degree in nuclear technology or a related field, along with on-the-job training or certification. Certification from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) or equivalent state agency is often required, and strong technical skills and attention to safety protocols are essential in this environment.

What is a Nuclear Mechanic job?

A Nuclear Mechanic is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting mechanical systems in nuclear power plants, submarines, or other facilities using nuclear technology. They work on pumps, valves, turbines, and other critical equipment to ensure safe and efficient operations. Their duties may include troubleshooting mechanical failures, performing preventive maintenance, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Nuclear Mechanics typically receive specialized training, often through military service or technical programs, due to the sensitive nature of their work.

How much do nuclear mechanics make?

Nuclear mechanics typically earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. They often work in specialized environments such as nuclear power plants or military facilities and may require security clearances and technical training.

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

Nuclear engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $100,000 and $130,000, with top earners in specialized roles or with extensive experience reaching around $150,000 to $200,000. Earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and would generally require advanced positions, management roles, or working in high-paying industries with additional certifications or responsibilities.

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

A successful Nuclear Mechanic possesses a solid background in mechanical systems, troubleshooting, and repair, often supported by vocational training or an associate's degree in a technical field. Experience using diagnostic tools, precision measuring instruments, and familiarity with procedures for working in regulated environments, such as nuclear power plants, are typically required, with industry certifications like NCCER or nuclear plant-specific training preferred. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively under high-stress conditions are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications are crucial to ensure the safety, reliability, and compliance of complex nuclear systems in demanding operational settings.

More about Nuclear Mechanic jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Mechanic jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Mechanic job openings:
What states have the most Nuclear Mechanic jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Mechanic jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Mechanic jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Mechanic jobs are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Mechanic job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $87,706 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

NUCLEAR MECHANIC SYSTEMS INSPECTOR (SHIPS)

US Department of the Navy

Portsmouth, VA • On-site

$45.76/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

You will serve as a NUCLEAR MECHANICAL SYSTEMS INSPECTOR (SHIPS) in the NUCLEAR INSPECTION DIVISION OF THE QUALITY ASSURANCE OFFICE of NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD.Qualifications:Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most trade and labor occupations, you must show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying. Qualification requirements emphasis is on quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the job elements and screen out listed below.
This job has a screen-out element which will be used to determine minimum eligibility for this job. Applicants who do not receive a minimum of two points on the screen-out element(s) will be found ineligible. The Screen-out Element for this position is: ABILITY TO INSPECT:
  • Current nuclear training and qualifications are required at the full journeyman level.
  • Must have the ability to interpret diagrams, specifications, drawing and interrelated procedures and technical requirements to most critical job applications.
  • Knowledge of mechanical, piping and structural material.
  • System-wide knowledge of the interrelated effects of work evolutions of nuclear reactor plant systems.
  • The ability to work independently when initiating and authorization workmanship, components, materials, and procedures that do not meet specifications by initiating Nuclear Deficiency reports.
  • Able to maintain records of work performed. Some knowledge of the following Inspection skills: Reactor Refueling Operations, Reactor Plant Certification prior to Critical Operations Testing, Reactor Grade Cleanliness Controls, Weld Joint in progress and acceptance inspections (Non-Destructive Test), Reactor Plant Systems.
  • Material Accountability, and Receipt Inspection.
  • Knowledge of pre-use inspections and marking verifications of naval nuclear material ensuring proper material control and traceability is maintained.
  • Able to: assemble, disassemble, install, test, maintain, repair, troubleshoot, calibrate for accuracy, modify and design.
Applicants must meet the requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Job Qualification Handbook for Trades and Labor Occupations. Additional qualification information can be found at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/federal-wage-system-qualifications/#url=List-of-Approved-Job-Elements
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:Employment Type: OTHER

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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