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Nuclear Physics Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Xcimer Energy

Director of Nuclear Science

Denver, CO

$220K - $260K/yr

Define and own the scientific roadmap for fusion chamber dynamics, blanket multi-physics, tritium science, and supporting fusion nuclear science domains. * Develop the strategy for scientific tools ...

New

Xcimer Energy

Director of Nuclear Science

Denver, CO · On-site

$220K - $260K/yr

This leader will define and execute the longterm scientific roadmap supporting fusion chamber dynamics, blanket multi-physics, tritium science, and other critical fusion nuclear science domains ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Clifton, CO · On-site

$91K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Edwards, CO · On-site

$108K - $130K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Hugo, CO · On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Gilcrest, CO · On-site

$107K - $128K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Centennial, CO · On-site

$101K - $121K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Keystone, CO · On-site

$115K - $138K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Norwood, CO · On-site

$94K - $113K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Springfield, CO · On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Dolores, CO · On-site

$100K - $119K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Louisville, CO · On-site

$102K - $123K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Holly, CO · On-site

$99K - $119K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Erie, CO · On-site

$98K - $117K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

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Nuclear Physics information

See Colorado salary details

$41K

$121K

$162.5K

How much do nuclear physics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear physics in Colorado is $121,036.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,100.00 and $137,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is nuclear physics?

Nuclear physics is a branch of physics that studies the structure, properties, and behavior of atomic nuclei and the fundamental forces and particles involved. It explores phenomena such as radioactivity, nuclear reactions, and the interactions between protons and neutrons within the nucleus. Nuclear physics has many practical applications, including nuclear energy production, medical imaging (such as PET scans), and cancer treatments (radiation therapy). Researchers in this field use both experimental and theoretical approaches to understand nuclear matter and its role in the universe.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Physicist, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and data analysis, typically supported by a PhD in nuclear or particle physics. Familiarity with advanced laboratory equipment, simulation software, and programming languages such as Python or C++ is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help nuclear physicists stand out in research and collaborative environments. These skills and qualities are vital for conducting accurate experiments, interpreting complex data, and advancing scientific understanding in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear physicists in experimental research settings?

Nuclear physicists in experimental research often face challenges related to the complexity and precision required in experiments, such as maintaining the safety of high-energy equipment and minimizing experimental errors. They must also work with highly sensitive instruments and analyze large data sets, which requires strong technical skills and attention to detail. Collaboration is key, as projects typically involve multidisciplinary teams including engineers, technicians, and other scientists. Managing time effectively between laboratory work, data analysis, and reporting results is essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Nuclear Physics vs Nuclear Engineering?

AspectNuclear PhysicsNuclear Engineering
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, often with a PhD in physics or related fieldEngineering degree, often with a bachelor's or master's in nuclear engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesPower plants, medical facilities, research reactors
Industry UsageFundamental research, academic institutionsDesign, operation, and safety of nuclear systems

Nuclear Physics focuses on understanding atomic nuclei and fundamental particles, often in research settings. Nuclear Engineering applies this knowledge to develop and operate nuclear systems, such as reactors and medical equipment. While both fields require a strong background in physics and related credentials, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

Are nuclear physicists in high demand?

Nuclear physicists are in moderate demand, primarily in research institutions, government agencies, and specialized industries such as energy and healthcare. Employment opportunities depend on funding, technological advancements, and government projects, with strong skills in data analysis, programming, and laboratory techniques being valuable. Overall, the field offers stable employment but limited growth compared to other STEM careers.

What can you do with a nuclear physics degree?

A nuclear physics degree prepares individuals for careers in research, nuclear energy, medical physics, and radiation safety. Graduates often work in laboratories, power plants, or healthcare settings, utilizing skills in data analysis, modeling, and instrumentation. Advanced positions may require additional certifications or advanced degrees.

What jobs are there in nuclear physics?

Jobs in nuclear physics include research scientist, nuclear engineer, radiation safety officer, and nuclear technician. These roles often require advanced degrees in physics or engineering, knowledge of nuclear materials, and familiarity with safety protocols and specialized equipment. Employment can be found in research laboratories, government agencies, healthcare facilities, and the nuclear power industry.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Physics jobs in Colorado?

For Nuclear Physics jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Physics jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Physics jobs in Colorado are:

Nuclear Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Physics job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,036 per year, or $58.2 per hour.

Director of Nuclear Science

Xcimer Energy

Denver, CO

$220K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) combined with groundbreaking new laser architecture. Our mission is to deploy fusion power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a track record of rapid execution. Supported by leading investors, Xcimer is uniquely positioned to deliver limitless, clean, fusion power to combat climate change. Join us in powering a better world with inertial fusion!
 
The Director of Fusion Nuclear Science provides strategic, technical, and organizational leadership for the scientific disciplines that enable the realization and industrialization of practical fusion power systems. This leader will define and execute the long‑term scientific roadmap supporting fusion chamber dynamics, blanket multi-physics, tritium science, and other critical fusion nuclear science domains needed to deliver Xcimer’s next‑generation fusion energy platform.
 
The successful candidate will recruit, build, and mentor multidisciplinary world‑class scientific teams; establish long-term scientific roadmap; and ensure that cutting‑edge research translates into validated models, experimental data, and actionable design guidance. This role partners closely with program and engineering leadership, and other science department directors, while serving as the company’s primary authority for fusion nuclear science.
Responsibilities
  • Build, lead and grow the Fusion Nuclear Science department, including hiring, onboarding, mentoring, and professional development of scientific staff.
  • Define and own the scientific roadmap for fusion chamber dynamics, blanket multi-physics, tritium science, and supporting fusion nuclear science domains.
  • Develop the strategy for scientific tools, modeling frameworks, experimental capabilities, and validation infrastructure.
  • Oversee scientific analysis, modeling, code development, and experimental programs with strong emphasis on reproducibility, uncertainty quantification, and model credibility.
  • Translate scientific insights, experimental data, and validated models into design guidance for engineering teams responsible for fusion system architecture.
  • Collaborate closely with the engineering  and operations divisions, and with other science departments, to ensure strong communication and alignment.
  • Evaluate emerging scientific opportunities and integrate advances from academia, national laboratories, and international fusion programs.
  • Manage relationships with external laboratories, university collaborators, and vendors providing modeling tools, experimental facilities, or other fusion nuclear science scope.
  • Establish department‑wide scientific best practices, documentation standards, review processes, and quality expectations appropriate for industrial fusion systems.
  • Identify key scientific risks across fusion nuclear science programs and drive mitigation strategies supporting execution and long‑term scalability.
  • Support system troubleshooting, root‑cause investigations, and scientific review of failures or anomalies encountered in development or experimental operations.
  • Align fusion nuclear science priorities with company strategy, program schedules, resource constraints, and commercialization goals in partnership with executive leadership.
Qualifications
  • Education: PhD in Nuclear Science, Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Physics, or a closely related field.
  • Experience: 12+ years of experience in analysis, simulation, experimental R&D, or technology development for complex nuclear or fusion systems under extreme thermal and radiation environments.
  • Deep experience with nuclear analysis tools (e.g., MCNP), multi‑physics simulation software (e.g., COMSOL, ANSYS), and reactor thermohydraulic codes (e.g., RELAP, MELCOR).
  • Experience designing and executing experiments that raise component or system technology readiness.
  • Demonstrated leadership of multidisciplinary scientific or R&D organizations.
  • Proven record of mentoring and growing high-performing technical teams.
  • Strong publication and scientific leadership record.
  • Ability to operate effectively within a rapidly evolving organization transitioning from startup to industrial scale.
  • Ability to balance hands‑on scientific leadership with high‑level strategic direction and organizational oversight.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Desired
  • Experience in fusion chamber research, blanket multi-physics, and tritium fuel cycle analysis.
  • Familiarity with fusion safety and regulatory requirements.
  • Experience in the commercial nuclear industry or fusion experimental facilities.
  • Knowledge of tritium handling systems, molten salt technologies.
  • Familiarity with fusion plant design and commercialization efforts.
Candidates may be considered for other positions at Xcimer Energy, and our actual base salary will be determined on an individual basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. The range is published in accordance with Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and California Equal Pay Act.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Xcimer Energy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated work force. Xcimer Energy hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork, in which all employees recognize and appreciate the diversity of individual team members. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Xcimer Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information on “EEO Is the Law,” please see here and here.
 
Benefits
Xcimer offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee health, well-being, and long-term success. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; basic and supplemental life insurance; short- and long-term disability; paid parental leave for employees at the time of birth or adoption; and a 401(k) with a company match of up to 6%. Eligible employees also receive equity, allowing them to share in the company’s long-term success.
Xcimer operates under a flexible Paid Time Off (ATO) approach. Rather than a fixed number of vacation days, employees are trusted to take the time they need to rest and recharge while meeting the expectations of their role and team. In addition, employees receive paid sick time, 13 company-paid holidays, and an annual paid company shutdown. Benefits are available to regular employees, including part-time and fixed-term roles, as well as interns, with eligibility varying by benefit.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.