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Nuclear Operations Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer

Damascus, MD

$104K - $124K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Dunkirk, MD

$97K - $117K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Scaggsville, MD

$96K - $115K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Darnestown, MD

$98K - $117K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Montclair, VA

$99K - $118K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Cheverly, MD

$98K - $118K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Cloverly, MD

$96K - $116K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Vienna, VA

$98K - $118K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Oakton, VA

$99K - $119K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Elkridge, MD

$97K - $116K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Colesville, MD

$97K - $117K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Pomfret, MD

$97K - $116K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Herndon, VA

$101K - $121K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Arnold, MD

$96K - $115K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Forestville, MD

$102K - $122K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Crofton, MD

$99K - $119K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Pasadena, MD

$100K - $119K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Nuclear Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$97K - $117K/yr

Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear ...

Showing results 21-40

Nuclear Operations information

What is nuclear operations?

Nuclear operations refer to the activities involved in operating and maintaining nuclear power plants or facilities that use nuclear technology. This includes monitoring reactor systems, ensuring safety protocols are followed, conducting routine inspections, and responding to emergencies. Nuclear operations professionals play a critical role in producing electricity safely and efficiently while minimizing risks to people and the environment. They require specialized training and must adhere to strict regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in nuclear operations, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Nuclear Operations often encounter challenges such as adhering to strict regulatory requirements, maintaining safety protocols, and managing unexpected equipment issues. These challenges can be managed through continuous training, clear communication with team members, and a strong safety culture. Collaboration with engineers, technicians, and regulatory bodies is essential to ensure smooth operations and rapid problem-solving. Staying up-to-date with the latest industry regulations and best practices also helps mitigate risks and ensures operational excellence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in nuclear operations, and why are they important?

To thrive in Nuclear Operations, you need a strong understanding of physics, engineering principles, and safety regulations, often supported by a relevant degree and specialized training. Familiarity with nuclear plant systems, control room simulators, and certifications such as NRC Reactor Operator Licensing are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient plant operations and adherence to strict regulatory standards, minimizing risks to personnel and the environment.

What is the difference between Nuclear Operations vs Nuclear Engineering?

AspectNuclear OperationsNuclear Engineering
Required CredentialsSecurity clearance, military or technical trainingEngineering degree, professional engineering license
Work EnvironmentPower plants, military facilities, maintenance sitesDesign labs, research facilities, power plant design
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary, energy sector, government agenciesEnergy companies, research institutions, consulting firms

Nuclear Operations focuses on the safe operation, maintenance, and security of nuclear systems, often requiring security clearances and hands-on technical skills. Nuclear Engineering involves designing, analyzing, and improving nuclear systems, requiring advanced engineering education. While both roles are vital in the nuclear industry, they differ in focus, credentials, and work environment.

How much do nuclear operations make?

Nuclear operations professionals typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles requiring security clearances or specialized skills can offer higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Nuclear Operations jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Nuclear Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Operations job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Nuclear Physicist

Global Systems Engineering

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

$100 - $160/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Intreped Partners and its wholly owned subsidiary, Global Systems Engineering LLC (GSE), are a HUBZone small business supporting federal, state, and military partners across the defense, energy, and environmental sectors. We partner with our clients to tackle complex, high-impact challenges that directly support national security and mission success.


At GSE, integrity, trust, and collaboration aren’t just values—they’re how we work. Our team is made up of professionals who are passionate about solving real-world problems and committed to making a meaningful difference.


GSE is currently seeking a Nuclear Physicist to support the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Technical Reachback team in Fort Belvoir, Virginia. This position provides scientific and technical analysis and advice related to nuclear and radiological threats in support of DTRA Reachback customers. Customers include military teams, emergency responders, and interagency partners within the Department of Defense (DoD), Combatant Commands, Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and other federal organizations.


To be qualified, the candidate MUST be a U.S. citizen and be eligible to obtain a Top Secret (TS) security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access. An active security clearance at the time of application is not required.


This position requires a strong technical foundation in nuclear physics and/or related nuclear sciences, including the ability to evaluate nuclear and radiological hazards, assess technical information, and communicate complex scientific concepts to operational and non-technical audiences. Following receipt of the required security clearance, this position is primarily on site at Fort Belvoir, VA and requires shift work; shifts can vary and expand over multiple days at a time.


Tasks assigned to this position include:

  • Conduct technical analyses and risk assessments related to nuclear and radiological threats, hazards, and incidents

  • Respond to Requests for Information (RFI) from DoD military and civilian personnel

  • Provide professional scientific opinions and technical advice related to nuclear and radiological threats and risk mitigation

  • Analyze technical data and scientific literature to support time-sensitive operational requirements

  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary scientific and technical staff to address complex CBRN-related questions

  • Provide technical briefings and training to DoD military and civilian personnel

  • Conduct research and development projects in collaboration with other DTRA departments and technical organizations

  • Translate complex nuclear science and technical information into clear, actionable information for operational decision-makers


Qualifications:

  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics or a closely related technical discipline

  • Entry-level through experienced candidates will be considered; relevant nuclear or radiological research, laboratory, operational, or postdoctoral experience is preferred

  • Eligible to obtain a Top Secret clearance with SCI access (current TS/SCI clearance preferred)

  • Knowledge of nuclear and radiological phenomena, hazards, effects, detection, or related technical applications

  • Knowledge of DoD and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) operations and research applications preferred

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex scientific information to technical and non-technical audiences

  • Experience with Microsoft 365 suite of products

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