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Nuclear Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer

Buna, TX

$89K - $107K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hereford, TX

$93K - $112K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Moody, TX

$95K - $114K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Mauriceville, TX

$93K - $111K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Rosenberg, TX

$87K - $105K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Bardwell, TX

$91K - $109K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Manvel, TX

$92K - $111K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

San Diego, TX

$88K - $105K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lakehills, TX

$84K - $100K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Kingsland, TX

$89K - $107K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Henderson, TX

$91K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lockney, TX

$81K - $97K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Rosharon, TX

$88K - $105K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Natalia, TX

$89K - $107K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Boerne, TX

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lorenzo, TX

$84K - $101K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Albany, TX

$93K - $112K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Operator information

See Texas salary details

$854

$1.7K

$1.7K

How much do nuclear operator jobs pay per month?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear operator in Texas is $1,652.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,633.33 and $1,666.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Operator, you need a solid background in physics, mechanical systems, and safety procedures, often supported by an associate degree and completion of a rigorous training program or NRC license. Familiarity with control room instrumentation, reactor monitoring systems, and specialized simulation tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, stress management, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient plant operations and adhering to strict regulatory standards.

How much money do nuclear operators make?

Nuclear operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in shifts in a highly regulated environment, requiring specialized training and safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by Nuclear Operators during a typical shift?

Nuclear Operators often encounter challenges such as monitoring complex instrumentation, responding quickly to alarms, and troubleshooting equipment anomalies while maintaining strict safety protocols. They must remain vigilant and focused throughout long shifts, especially during routine maintenance or unexpected incidents. Effective communication with team members and other departments is essential to ensure coordinated, safe plant operations.

What is the difference between Nuclear Operator vs Nuclear Technician?

AspectNuclear OperatorNuclear Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma, nuclear training, and certificationRequires an associate's or bachelor's degree in nuclear technology or related field, plus certification
Work EnvironmentOperates and monitors nuclear reactors in power plantsPerforms maintenance, testing, and troubleshooting on nuclear equipment
Employer & IndustryPower generation companies, nuclear plantsNuclear facilities, research labs, power plants

Both Nuclear Operators and Nuclear Technicians work in nuclear power plants and require specialized training. While Nuclear Operators focus on operating reactors and ensuring safety during shifts, Nuclear Technicians handle maintenance, testing, and technical support. Their roles are complementary, with overlapping credentials and work environments, but distinct responsibilities within the nuclear industry.

What does a nuclear operator do?

A nuclear operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling nuclear reactor systems to ensure safe and efficient operation. They perform routine inspections, respond to alarms, and follow strict safety protocols, often working in shifts within a controlled environment. Certification and training in nuclear technology and safety procedures are essential for this role.

What are Nuclear Operators?

Nuclear Operators, also known as reactor operators, are professionals responsible for operating and monitoring the systems that control nuclear reactors at power plants. They ensure the reactor runs safely, efficiently, and within regulatory guidelines by adjusting controls, monitoring instruments, and responding to abnormalities. Their duties also include starting up or shutting down the reactor, conducting routine inspections, and following strict safety procedures to prevent accidents. Nuclear Operators must undergo extensive training and often require licensing to operate. This role is critical in maintaining the safe production of nuclear energy.

How do you become a nuclear operator?

To become a nuclear operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training at a nuclear power plant or technical school. They must pass a series of written and practical exams, obtain relevant certifications, and often complete on-the-job training to develop the necessary skills for operating nuclear reactors safely and efficiently.

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. Earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and would generally require advanced positions, management roles, or significant overtime in the nuclear industry.
What cities in Texas are hiring for Nuclear Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Nuclear Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Operator job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $19,829 per year, or $9.5 per hour.
RO License Operator 1 - LOT Class

RO License Operator 1 - LOT Class

STP Nuclear Operating Company

Wadsworth, TX • On-site

$17.50 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

The South Texas Project Electric Generating Station is one of the newest and largest nuclear power facilities in the nation. STP's two units produce 2,700 megawatts of carbon-free electricity - providing clean energy to two million Texas homes. Through our uncompromising commitment to nuclear safety and continuous focus on improving plant operations, STP has emerged as an industry leader. Our 1,200 employees maintain an ongoing commitment to the safe and reliable operation of the facility. The company's culture and core values focus on safety, integrity, teamwork and excellence.
SUMMARY
The Reactor Operator (RO) 1 position requires participation in the License Operator Training (LOT) Class, a preparatory program for the job of Operations Reactor Operator. Successful candidates must make satisfactory progress in developing technical skills to pass the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) exam and complete the LOT program.
EDUCATION
• High School/GED or equivalent (Required)
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Preferred)
EXPERIENCE
Eligible candidates for Reactor Operator must meet 2 years of power plant experience in one or more of the following categories from ACAD 10-001: (Required)
• Six months qualified as a non-licensed operator (Journeyman) at STP
• Twelve months qualified as a non-licensed operator at a comparable (PWR) nuclear power plant
• Eighteen months nuclear military experience in a position equivalent to reactor operator, engineering watch supervisor, or engineering officer of the watch
LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS
• Driver's license (Required)
• Obtain and maintain NRC Reactor Operator license
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
OPERATION OF POWER PLANT CONTROLS:
• Operates the controls of the nuclear power plant to avoid accidents and to mitigate the consequences of any postulated accidents.
• Operates controls in accordance with the plant operating license and technical specifications.
• Diagnoses plant status and initiates corrective action based on available information.
• Uses plant procedures and technical specifications to implement appropriate actions under normal, abnormal, outage, and emergency plant conditions.
• Monitors and tests plant equipment, maintains logs, and completes appropriate paperwork.
• Ensures equipment and personnel safety through equipment clearance order program.
• Acts as Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) communicator as part of emergency response duties and performs briefings and attends meetings as needed.
NRC REACTOR OPERATOR LICENSING & TRAINING:
• Successfully completes initial training and maintains NRC license to ensure compliance with all operating standards.
• Demonstrates understanding of the concepts, philosophy, and responsibilities with respect to reactivity management and reactor core safety
• Demonstrates knowledge of systems and components of controls over which operators have responsibility and control.
• Performs "On-The-Job" training as appropriate to role and successfully completes required continuing training.
• Maintains all required position qualifications.
TEAMWORK - CONTROL FOOM SHIFT TEAM:
• Effectively controls and coordinates activities and serves as an effective member of the control room shift team.
• Communicates effectively with team members and constructively manages conflict within the control room shift team and with other plant personnel.
• Anticipates and recognizes error-like situations and effectively addresses concerns with those involved.
• Asks questions to obtain needed information to perform the tasks of the job.
• Follows and supports command, control, and leadership directives and is committed to achieve team and station goals
• Engages in self-critique of individual and team performance.
OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES
• Accept Outage position.
• Accept ERO position and be able to meet the response requirements.
• Ability to obtain and maintain unescorted access.
• Successfully complete General Employee Training (GET) as required for position.
SPECIAL SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND QUALIFICATIONS
• Ability to meet and maintain requirements for NRC Reactor Operator license.
• Ability to pass a license physical exam
• Ability to read and interpret schematics and system drawings.
• Ability to use basic algebra to solve formulas used in operations procedures; ability to read and interpret schematics and system drawings.
• Ability to respond to visual and auditory signals from the control panels.
ENVIRONMENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Environmental and physical requirements require the ability to don appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the defined role; subject to crouching, stooping, bending, twisting and/or lifting up to 30+ lbs; ascending/descending stairs; ascending, descending, traversing ladders, scaffolds, stairs; working in confined spaces; moving safely over uneven or slippery terrain; working in proximity to loud equipment and possible inclement weather/temperature conditions.
WORKING CONDITIONS
• Overtime and alternate work schedules as needed.
• Subject to callouts twenty-four hours per day seven days per week.
• Ability to work rotating shift in the Plant Control Room. This requires the ability to work under stress.
• Initial training will be in a classroom environment. Training is intensive and will require study outside of normal working hours.
• Training will include rotating shift assignments in the plant to complete On-the-Job training requirements and simulator sessions conducted during weekends.
WORK LOCATION
• Site - Due to the nature of the work, this position requires work to be performed r at the work site.
STP is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and is committed to nondiscrimination in all matters relating to employment throughout the organization. STP will make every good faith effort to meet or exceed its affirmative action goals and commitments.
We thank all individuals for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.
NOTE: In order to be considered for this position you must complete the entire application process, which includes answering all prescreening questions and providing your eSignature on or before the requisition closing date.