ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Nuclear Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SLB

Nuclear Physicist

Sugar Land, TX · On-site

SLB is seeking applicants for an engineering scientist position in the domain of nuclear physics with specific emphasis on particle transport in electric fields. The primary focus is fit-for-purpose ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsNuclear Physicist Jobs

Nuclear Physicist information

See salary details

$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do nuclear physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there a demand for nuclear physicists?

Nuclear physicists are in demand in research institutions, government agencies, and the energy sector, particularly for roles involving nuclear energy, safety, and medical applications. Employment opportunities depend on government funding, technological advancements, and industry needs, with positions often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills in nuclear science and instrumentation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Nuclear Physicist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Physicist, you typically need an advanced degree in physics or nuclear engineering, a solid grasp of nuclear theory, mathematics, and experimental design. Competency in using particle accelerators, radiation detectors, specialized simulation software (such as MCNP or GEANT4), and adherence to safety certifications is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure safety, accuracy, and successful collaboration on complex scientific research and practical applications in the field.

What does a Nuclear Physicist do?

A Nuclear Physicist studies atomic nuclei, their interactions, and the fundamental forces governing them. They conduct research in areas like nuclear energy, radiation, and particle physics. Their work can be applied in medical imaging, nuclear power, defense, and scientific advancements. Nuclear Physicists often use particle accelerators, nuclear reactors, and advanced mathematical models to analyze atomic behavior. Many work in academic, government, or private research institutions.

What jobs can a nuclear physicist do?

A nuclear physicist can work in research and development, nuclear energy production, medical physics, or government agencies, often utilizing skills in data analysis, modeling, and laboratory techniques. They may work in laboratories, power plants, hospitals, or regulatory bodies, sometimes requiring security clearances or specialized certifications.

What can I do with a degree in nuclear physics?

A nuclear physicist can work in research, nuclear energy, medical imaging, and radiation safety. They analyze atomic nuclei, develop nuclear technologies, and often use specialized tools like particle accelerators and detectors. Careers may involve laboratory work, data analysis, and collaboration with engineers and health professionals.

What are some common challenges faced by Nuclear Physicists and how can I prepare for them?

Nuclear Physicists often tackle complex experimental or theoretical problems requiring both advanced technical knowledge and creative problem-solving. A primary challenge is ensuring strict safety compliance while working with radioactive materials or high-energy equipment, which requires ongoing training and attention to detail. Collaborative research environments may also demand strong teamwork and the ability to communicate findings to both technical and non-technical colleagues. Preparing through hands-on laboratory experience, staying up to date with safety protocols, and developing strong analytical and communication skills will help you navigate the unique demands of the role.

Can you make $500,000 as a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear engineers typically earn a median annual salary around $120,000, with top earners in specialized roles or with extensive experience reaching salaries close to $200,000. Earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and usually requires advanced positions, management roles, or working in high-paying industries such as nuclear power plant management or consulting. Achieving such a high salary often involves additional certifications, advanced degrees, and significant experience.
More about Nuclear Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Physicist jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Physicist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Nuclear Physicist jobs? The top employers for Nuclear Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Nuclear Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Physicist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Physicist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Physicist jobs are:
Nuclear Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Physicist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 7% As Needed, 10% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 46% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Nuclear Physicist

SLB

Sugar Land, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

SLB is seeking applicants for an engineering scientist position in the domain of nuclear physics with specific emphasis on particle transport in electric fields. The primary focus is fit-for-purpose generators such as the pulsed neutron generator (PNG). The position spans both experiment and modeling toward the design, validation, and manufacturing of commercial products based on the PNG.
Nuclear measurements are critical for characterizing the Earth's subsurface toward delivering advanced answers while logging (measuring) deep underground. SLB's industry- leading technology is developed both for legacy oil and gas applications and to build on our leadership in the global energy transition.
As a member of our multidisciplinary team, you will have a key role in developing and implementing hardware prototypes and models based on fundamental science to solve real-world problems. You will provide physical understanding, experimental know-how, and computing skills to take advantage of nuclear measurements that span diverse spatial scales and sensing techniques. Scientists are encouraged to publish research results, to present work at conferences, and to patent innovative ideas.
Roles & Responsibilities:
  • Provide research and development solutions based on principles of physics and mathematical models
  • Build virtual and real prototypes, products, and systems suitable for testing
  • Design testing procedures, coordinate tests, and document results
  • Conduct technical reviews of project requirements, specifications and risk analysis
  • Assist in commercialization tasks where applicable
  • Contribute to design standards
  • Create and maintain product documentation
  • Make presentations to technical, management, and client audiences.as needed
  • Author technical reports, papers, articles and patents
  • Share expertise via internal knowledge sharing methods and special interest groups. Build informal networks throughout the organization and with other industry experts including customers
  • Assign, direct and review the work of technicians and junior engineers. Mentor junior team members as required
  • Provide training and support to customers and field representatives as needed
  • Maintain familiarity with company technology, organization and business
  • Keep abreast of novel technical concepts and markets; Learn new skills and practices as required to develop products that maintain SLB's technical leadership

Qualifications & Experience:
  • Ph.D. degree in Nuclear Engineering, Physics, or related fields, with courses and preferably thesis work related to experiment, modeling, and analysis of nuclear radiation data.
  • Strong interest in testing methods and interpretation of data. You thrive on the combination of experiment and computing to extract insights
  • Fluency with programming languages such as Python, Matlab, C++, or similar. Experience with machine learning and data science is an advantage but is not required.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills. You are enthusiastic and work well in a team of scientists and engineers.
  • This position involves access to technology and/or data subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant's ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with these regulations.

Apply