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Nuclear Operations Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Research Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$135 - $210/hr

S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission ( NRC ). * System Design and Maintenance: Participate in the design, installation, testing, operation, and maintenance of reactor plant and experimental facility ...

S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). * System Design and Maintenance: Participate in the design, installation, testing, operation, and maintenance of reactor plant and experimental facility ...

Business Services Coordinator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$39K - $48K/yr

Coordinate administrative and business operations for the Department of Nuclear Engineering and the Nuclear Reactor Program. * Manage complex financial transactions, purchasing, reconciliations, and ...

We are the only nuclear engineering program in the state of North Carolina and one of the premier ... From handling day-to-day operations to supporting our financial and administrative needs, you'll be ...

Equipment Operation & Maintenance • Adjust imaging equipment and controls to meet exam ... an Accredited Nuclear Medicine Program (required) Experience: • Minimum 1 year of clinical ...

Equipment Operation & Maintenance * Adjust imaging equipment and controls to meet exam ... Graduate of an Accredited Nuclear Medicine Program (required) Experience: * Minimum 1 year of ...

Equipment Operation & Maintenance * Adjust imaging equipment and controls to meet exam ... Graduate of an Accredited Nuclear Medicine Program (required) Experience: * Minimum 1 year of ...

... operations. • Accurately position patients and imaging equipment to obtain optimal images and ... Who you are • Graduate of an accredited Radiologic Technology or Nuclear Medicine program. • ...

Showing results 41-60

Nuclear Operations information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$18

$50

$75

How much do nuclear operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear operations in Raleigh, NC is $50.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.08 and $60.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Nuclear Operations jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Nuclear Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Operations job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 11% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $104,949 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Lead Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Cary, NC • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source.  Our electric power generation clients are digitizing their existing power plants and building new nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR).  This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group.  You will work on major process controls engineering projects in the following areas:

  • Develop and market high level, complex programs for nuclear power projects associated with design, operational excellence, safety, maintenance, and project management.
  • This position will offer you the opportunity to direct technical decision making, in a project team environment with other engineers and designers involved in the design, modification, and analysis of new and existing power plant controls systems, specifically digital upgrades
  • You will work on challenging assignments that include investigating, troubleshooting, and solving a wide variety of instrumentation & controls engineering issues,
  • Coordinate systems design activities to ensure installation and operations will comply with specifications, codes, and client requirements,
  • Perform Digital Systems Design Development -- PLC, DCS, HSI, networked computer systems, and digital instrumentation & control systems functional requirements for nuclear plant systems.  Work collaboratively on quality assessments and critical digital reviews,
  • Perform consulting level work for digital IOT, innovation, and strategic first of a kind (FOAK) projects for the nuclear industry,
  • Prepare and review detailed calculations, including scaling, uncertainty, and setpoint calculations for analog and digital controls applications,
  • Prepare documentation for design input for drawing production including master diagrams and schematics,
  • Interface with vendors to prepare and review materials and equipment purchase specifications,
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements,
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation,
  • Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction,
  • Support station outage activities as required

This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.
 


We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • A BS degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program

  • 10 or more years of experience in the design of instrumentations and controls engineering systems in a project team environment for non-commercial, heavy industrial plants, with a focus on integrated, detailed system design for new plants, or modifications or replacements for existing plants.
  • Experience with controls system design including applications for low and medium voltage distribution systems and controls for equipment including but not limited to turbines, pumps, feedwater control, and data displays.
  • Experience with power plant instrumentation and controls systems design for either BWR of PWR reactors, including DCS for turbine, control, feedwater control, and data display.
  • Technically knowledgeable of available equipment and proven pre-engineered systems to execute systems design
  • Experience with serving as firm/client liaison in a support or lead engineering role is desirable.
  • Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • PE license preferred
  • Construction and start-up experience a plus
  • Commissioning experience a plus
  • Broad background in providing technical support to nuclear plant projects - from design, project planning, providing technical expertise associated with testing and operations, contract specifications, project oversight, successful project execution, and overall direction of complex nuclear projects. Licensing strategies associated with Digital I&C Modernization projects.

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:

  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

$118,023 - $180,313
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we’ve been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!


Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.


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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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