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Nuclear Operator Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Vistra is seeking highly motivated, disciplined, and detail-oriented professionals to join our Nuclear Operations team as Licensed Nuclear Reactor Operator Trainees. This position offers ...

Job Summary Vistra is seeking highly motivated, disciplined, and detail-oriented professionals to join our Nuclear Operations team as Licensed Nuclear Reactor Operator Trainees. This position offers ...

Job Summary Vistra is seeking highly motivated, disciplined, and detail-oriented professionals to join our Nuclear Operations team as Licensed Nuclear Reactor Operator Trainees. This position offers ...

Job Summary Vistra is seeking highly motivated, disciplined, and detail-oriented professionals to join our Nuclear Operations team as Licensed Nuclear Reactor Operator Trainees. This position offers ...

Nuclear Commercial Operator (>3 years) * Maritime Academy Engineer * Engineering Bachelor's Degree Nuclear requirement: Any PVNGS employee may be called upon to serve as a member of the Emergency ...

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Summary APS is looking for a BA Operator Trainee to join their ECC team! The Balancing Authority is ... For positions at Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Stations (PVNGS) all openings will require ...

ECC BA Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Summary APS is looking for a BA Operator Trainee to join their ECC team! The Balancing Authority is ... For positions at Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Stations (PVNGS) all openings will require ...

ECC Transmission Operator Trainee

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18.50 - $22.50/hr

Summary The ECC Transmission Operator Trainee is expected to complete qualifications within ... For positions at Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Stations (PVNGS) all openings will require ...

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Nuclear Operator Trainee information

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$19

$51

$77

How much do nuclear operator trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear operator trainee in the United States is $51.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.18 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nuclear operator trainee?

A Nuclear Operator Trainee is an entry-level professional who is learning to operate and monitor the systems within a nuclear power plant. Trainees work under the supervision of experienced operators and receive extensive training on plant equipment, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements. This role is the first step toward becoming a fully licensed Nuclear Reactor Operator, and involves both classroom instruction and on-the-job experience. Nuclear Operator Trainees must demonstrate proficiency in technical skills, problem-solving, and adherence to strict safety guidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear operator trainee?

To thrive as a Nuclear Operator Trainee, you need a solid background in math, physics, and mechanical systems, often supported by an associate's degree or military experience in a technical field. Familiarity with control room simulators, radiation monitoring instruments, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required, and obtaining NRC licensing may be necessary. Strong attention to detail, stress management, and clear communication help trainees excel in high-stakes and team-oriented environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe plant operations, regulatory compliance, and effective emergency response.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear operator trainees during their initial training period?

Nuclear Operator Trainees often encounter challenges such as mastering complex technical concepts, adapting to strict safety protocols, and handling high-pressure situations during simulations. The learning curve can be steep, requiring strong attention to detail and the ability to quickly process large volumes of information. Trainees also need to develop effective communication skills to work collaboratively with experienced operators and other plant staff. Consistent study, hands-on practice, and support from mentors are key to overcoming these challenges and progressing in the role.

What is the difference between Nuclear Operator Trainee vs Nuclear Operator?

AspectNuclear Operator TraineeNuclear Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and basic safety training; may need specific nuclear certificationsRequires advanced certifications and licenses, such as NRC licensing
Work EnvironmentTraining environment within nuclear power plants, supervised by experienced operatorsFull-time work in nuclear power plants operating reactors and systems
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position for training in nuclear power industryLicensed professional responsible for plant operations

The Nuclear Operator Trainee is an entry-level role focused on training and gaining experience, while the Nuclear Operator is a fully licensed professional responsible for plant operations. Trainees work under supervision, whereas licensed operators perform critical functions independently.

What states have the most Nuclear Operator Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Nuclear Operator Trainee jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Operator Trainee jobs?

For Nuclear Operator Trainee jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Operator Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,964 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Nuclear Operator

Shippingport, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Vistra rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

If you have what it takes to become part of the Vistra family and would like to start a promising career with a global leader, take a look at the exciting employment opportunities that are currently available and apply online.

Job Summary

Vistra is seeking highly motivated, disciplined, and detail-oriented professionals to join our Nuclear Operations team as Licensed Nuclear Reactor Operator Trainees.
This position offers a unique, fully funded 2-year intensive training program designed to prepare you for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing exam. Upon successful completion of the training program and receipt of your operator license, you will transition into a full-time role as a Licensed Reactor Operator, working a rotating shift schedule to monitor, control, and safely operate the facility's nuclear reactor and auxiliary systems.

Job Description

DUTIES:

1. Places in operation, operates and removes from operation equipment using approved station procedures.

2. Maintains proper lubrication of equipment.

3. Maintains chemical specifications of systems using approved station procedures.

4. Performs equipment switching and tagging for clearance operations.

5. Performs routine radiation monitoring necessary to obtain access to operating areas or equipment and assists in routine chemistry sampling and analysis of reactor equipment.

6. Frequently checks the operation of equipment and diagnoses any difficulties.

7. Using appropriate tools and materials, performs minor adjustment and repair work.

8. Takes necessary action in case of an emergency and notifies the Reactor Operator or station supervision of unusual or irregular conditions.

9. Records readings, changes charts and keeps proper records of work done on the shift.

10. Performs various operating procedures and equipment surveillance tests as directed.

11. Performs as a member of the station emergency squad and fire brigade.

12. Using appropriate tools and materials, maintains assigned work area and equipment in a clean, orderly, and well lighted manner.

13. Directs and trains other operations employees, checking the performance of their work in order to maintain safe and proper operating conditions.

14. Effectively uses electrical and mechanical prints, diagrams and manuals in performance of job duties. Other assigned duties can be the preparations of safety clearances when directed.

15. Performs all work in accordance with station safety and radiological control regulations and practices.

16. Performs all duties is accordance with INPO good operating practices, industry standards, and NRC regulations.

17. Maintain job qualification under the INPO certified training program.

18. Trains and qualities as a Licensed Reactor Operator.

19. Performs other similar or less skilled duties as required or assigned; such as, assist with instruction for initial and continuing training, work scheduling or quality reviews when requested.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

1. Must meet all qualifications of the Auxiliary Equipment Operator and Turbine Building Operator positions.

2. Must have at least 3 years of operations power plant experience or equivalent excluding training or non-operation's time experience.

3. Demonstrate a thorough working knowledge of company safety regulations, practices and methods of executing clearances.

4. Demonstrate the ability to prepare clearances from drawings and prints.

5. Complete assigned training for the position for the INPO certified programs and other training needed to perform the job duties using industry standards.

6. Qualify and receive a NRC Operator's License as requested by management.

7. Pass appropriate oral and/or written examinations.

8. Pass appropriate physical examinations needed to perform work in radiological control areas assigned such as plant containment.

9. Demonstrated ability to instruct, plan, and direct the work of other employees.

10. Demonstrate a thorough working knowledge of radiation worker standards and practices.

11. Successful completion of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission Generic Fundamentals Examination minimum qualification to remain as a Nuclear Operator as a prerequisite to Licensed Operator Training.

12. Demonstrate the use of plant computer equipment such as Work Process monitoring, corrective actions, procedure usage and change and work scheduling software.

Job Family

Plant Operations

Company

Vistra Nuclear Operations Company

Locations

Shippingport, PennsylvaniaPennsylvania
We are a company of people committed to: Exceeding Customer Expectations, Great People, Teamwork, Competitive Spirit and Effective Communication. If this describes you, then apply today!
If you currently work for Vistra or its subsidiaries, please apply via the internal career site.

It is the policy of the Company to comply with all employment laws and to afford equal employment opportunity to individuals in all aspects of employment, including in selection for job opportunities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service, protected veteran status, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local laws.

If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance submitting an application or would like to request an accommodation, please email usatassistance@vistraenergy.comtomake a request.


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