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Nuclear Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

Crane Operator

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

$32.24/hr

About Us Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization ... The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine ...

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

Crane Operator

West Milton, NY · On-site

$40.69/hr

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) is seeking a highly motivated professional to join our ... This includes operating mobile cranes (wheeled and track type), telehandler, and various capacity ...

The Nuclear Company

Land Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site

Every employee is expected to leverage AI, technology, and the Nuclear Operating System (NOS) as integral components of their role to improve the quality, speed, and impact of their work. We expect ...

The Nuclear Company

Land Specialist

Umatilla, OR · On-site

Every employee is expected to leverage AI, technology, and the Nuclear Operating System (NOS) as integral components of their role to improve the quality, speed, and impact of their work. We expect ...

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Nuclear Operator information

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$916

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$1.9K

How much do nuclear operator jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear operator in the United States is $1,773.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,750.00 and $1,791.67 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.

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 is a nuclear operator?

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.
More about Nuclear Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Operator jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Operator job openings:
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What states have the most Nuclear Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Operator jobs include:
Nuclear Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $21,284 per year, or $10.2 per hour.

Crane Operator

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

Idaho Falls, ID • On-site

$32.24/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Naval Nuclear Laboratory rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

About Us

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets. Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today!

Job Description
  • The candidate will be responsible for the safe conduct of weight handling operations. This will include, but not limited to, weight handling evolutions utilizing overhead cranes, gantry cranes and mobile cranes.
  • The candidate must meet the physical requirements, knowledge and skill requirements to complete and maintain NRF Crane Operator qualifications.
  • The candidate will be required to qualify and maintain qualifications required for working on radiological systems and equipment.
  • The candidate will be required to work rotating shifts.
Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill
  • High school diploma or GED, plus 3-5 years of heavy equipmentoperations.
Preferred Skills
Compensation and Benefits
  • Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits
  • Disability, Life & Accident Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan
  • Personal & Medical Time Off
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees
  • Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Wellness Program
  • Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!
Pay Range

$32.24 hourly
Jobs categorized as subject to a collective bargaining agreement will adhere to the pay rates, wage increases, progression schedules, and other parameters identified and negotiated in said agreements. Wages and other compensation details are subject to change based negotiated changes to the collective bargaining agreements.

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S. Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce. All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.

Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.

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