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Nuclear Plant Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization projects. * Develop engineering specifications, design criteria, calculations, and modification ...

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization projects. * Develop engineering specifications, design criteria, calculations, and modification ...

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization projects. * Develop engineering specifications, design criteria, calculations, and modification ...

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization projects. * Develop engineering specifications, design criteria, calculations, and modification ...

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization projects. * Develop engineering specifications, design criteria, calculations, and modification ...

Nuclear Engineer VI I&C

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$92K - $110K/yr

The individual should have extensive experience with power plant systems, components, and ... Zachry Nuclear Engineering, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled Note:

Nuclear Engineer VI I&C

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$92K - $110K/yr

The individual should have extensive experience with power plant systems, components, and ... Zachry Nuclear Engineering, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled Note:

Electrical Engineer - Nuclear

Columbia, AL · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

Senior Electrical Engineer - Nuclear Location: 7388 North State Hwy 95 Columbia, AL 36319 Duration ... This role requires deep technical expertise in power plant electrical systems, regulatory ...

Virtual, 1 round Essential Responsibilities Knowledge of nuclear plant operations and nuclear regulatory processes. Knowledge of the human factors engineering process. Ability to analyze requirements ...

Engineer II I&C - Nuclear

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$92K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Engineer II, I&C Zachry Nuclear Engineering, Inc . (ZNE) is currently seeking an Engineer II, I&C ... Ability to pass security and drug screening, and maintain unescorted nuclear plant access is ...

Showing results 21-40

Nuclear Plant Engineer information

See salary details

$97K

$135.7K

$176.5K

How much do nuclear plant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear plant engineer in the United States is $135,726.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,000.00 and $158,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do nuclear plant engineers make?

Nuclear plant engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or supervisory roles can earn higher salaries. Certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can also influence earning potential.

What is a nuclear plant engineer?

Nuclear Plant Engineers are professionals who design, operate, maintain, and ensure the safety of nuclear power plants. They are responsible for managing the systems that generate electricity from nuclear energy, addressing safety protocols, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Their work is crucial in providing reliable and safe energy while minimizing environmental risks and maintaining strict safety guidelines.

What is the difference between Nuclear Plant Engineer vs Nuclear Reactor Operator?

AspectNuclear Plant EngineerNuclear Reactor Operator
CredentialsBachelor's in Nuclear Engineering or related field; licensing often requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training and licensing required
Work EnvironmentDesign, maintenance, and safety analysis within nuclear power plantsOperate and monitor reactor systems directly during shifts
Employer & Industry UsagePower plants, engineering firms, regulatory agenciesNuclear power plants, energy sector

The main difference is that Nuclear Plant Engineers focus on designing, maintaining, and ensuring safety protocols for nuclear facilities, often working behind the scenes. In contrast, Nuclear Reactor Operators are responsible for the real-time operation and control of reactor systems during shifts. Both roles require specialized training and licensing but differ in daily responsibilities and focus areas.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear plant engineers during daily operations?

Nuclear Plant Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring the safe and efficient operation of complex reactor systems. They must remain vigilant about regulatory compliance, swiftly address unexpected technical issues, and coordinate closely with multidisciplinary teams including safety, operations, and maintenance staff. Balancing routine monitoring with periodic system upgrades and rigorous safety drills is key, and adapting quickly to evolving technology and safety protocols is essential for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in nuclear or mechanical engineering, a bachelor’s degree in engineering, and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with nuclear reactor systems, safety analysis tools, and regulatory compliance frameworks such as NRC guidelines is essential. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and communication skills help engineers excel in high-stakes, team-oriented environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of nuclear power facilities.
More about Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Nuclear Plant Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Nuclear Plant Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Plant Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,726 per year, or $65.3 per hour.

Nuclear Engineer I or Nuclear Engineer II - Electrical Procurement

Duke Energy

Huntersville, NC • On-site

$92K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Duke Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 167 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Important Application Submission Information

In order to ensure your application is successfully received before the job posting expires, please submit your application by 11:59 PM on Sunday, August 23, 2026More than a career - a chance to make a difference in people's lives.

Build an exciting, rewarding career with us - help us make a difference for millions of people every day. Consider joining the Duke Energy team, where you'll find a friendly work environment, opportunities for growth and development, recognition for your work, and competitive pay and benefits.

Nuclear Engineer I or Nuclear Engineer II - Electrical Procurement

This position description is for an Engineer 1 or Engineer II (Electrical Procurement Engineer) located at the McGuire Nuclear Plant. Although located at the McGuire Nuclear Plant, this is a corporate Nuclear Engineering Department position that supports all Duke Energy nuclear sites. A primary function of this position is to provide support to the Duke Energy Nuclear sites through developing and approving procurement engineering products which include, but are not limited to equivalency evaluations, commercial grade technical evaluations and dedication plans, part safety classification analysis, and reverse engineering, by utilizing the most cost-effective, prudent, and fleet procurement options.

Preferred location is MNS, but CNS and ONS are options as well.

Responsibilities:

  • Support the generation of engineering equivalency evaluations and commercial grade dedication packages to address site related maintenance issues.
  • Provide cost-effective engineering and testing solutions to improve plant performance and maintain the plant's safety margins by maintaining and meeting design requirements, coordinating supporting activities, resolving equipment non-conformances, and ensuring the quality of documents provided. Evaluation and selection of the most prudent cost-effective alternatives for procurement consistent with schedules and regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain an understanding of engineering principles relating to how an item functions, how it must be tested, and how to interpret the test results.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge/understanding of applicable codes, standards, and regulatory requirements/guidance/direction (ASME, ANSI, ASTM, IEEE, Code of Federal Regulations, EPRI, NEI, NUREG, etc.) used in the nuclear industry in general, procurement, and QA.
  • Provides engineering/technical expertise and guidance in the identification, analysis, testing, and resolution of routine problems in area of expertise.
  • Prepares thorough and accurate technical reports, test reports, correspondence, and documentation associated with the resolution of routine engineering and dedication work.
  • Possesses knowledge of fundamental engineering and testing concepts, practices, and procedures.
  • Develops positive working relationships to effectively coordinate work activities.
  • Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Maintains accurate records and files.

Basic/Required Qualifications:

Nuclear Engineer I

  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering from an ABET accredited program.
  • A Master 's degree in Engineering will be considered in lieu of a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
  • 0-2 years of engineering experience.

Nuclear Engineer II

  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering from an ABET accredited program.
  • A Master 's degree in Engineering will be considered in lieu of a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
  • 2-4 years of engineering experience.
  • Minimum of 1 year of nuclear experience.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Understanding of basic engineering and testing theories and principles.
  • Understanding of basic practices of engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations, and preparing and presenting recommendations.
  • Good written and oral communication skills.
Additional Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from an ABET accredited program.
  • Experience in the nuclear utility industry.
  • Post-Bachelor's degree (ex. Masters' or professional school equivalent). Area of Specialization (Master of Engineering).
  • Previous on-the-job nuclear Procurement Engineering and/or QA Testing experience (Environmental Qualification, Seismic Qualification/Testing/Analysis, Functional Testing, Dedication Testing, QA, etc.).
  • Working knowledge of power plant operations, including mechanical and electrical equipment.
  • Working experience with Nuclear Asset Suite (i.e., Portal J, Passport, Asset Suite).
  • Successfully completed EPRI Procurement Training Course for Plant Engineering or equivalent training/experience.
  • Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of customers in all levels of an organization.
  • Demonstrated effective analytical, problem solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to deliver superior results within allocated time through effective prioritization, scheduling, planning and execution of assigned work.
  • Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team, be a self-starter, exercise flexibility, and take personal responsibility for assigned accountabilities.
  • Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing processes, regulations, responsibilities, and work environments.
  • Working knowledge and understanding of the QA program and other related documents.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively work independently and/or with minimal supervision.
  • Demonstrated planning and organizational skills.
  • Experience reading and interpreting procedures, drawings, specifications, and codes.
  • NAS Work Control and CAP experience.
  • Previous Work Management experience.

Specific Requirements:

  • In lieu of 1 year of nuclear experience, a selected candidate is subject to the oversight and written approval authority of a designated qualified individual until the selected candidate becomes fully qualified.
  • Able to achieve nuclear site Unescorted Access/Security clearance.
  • This position may be required to have Emergency Response Organization (ERO) responsibilities which could include callouts with a defined response time to the site and an on-call duty rotation requiring the employee to be Fit for Duty.
  • Required to wear personal protective equipment (hardhat, safety glasses, fall protection, etc.) as needed.
  • Office and plant environments.
  • Additional hours expected as workload/business need requires.
  • Occasional overnight travel.

Travel Requirements

  • 5-15%

Travel Requirements

5-15%Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable)YesRepresented/Union PositionNoVisa Sponsored PositionNo. This is not a Visa Sponsored Position. This role requires the ability to work lawfully in the U.S. without employment-based immigration sponsorship, now or in the future.
Please note that in order to be considered for this position, you must possess all of the basic/required qualifications.

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About Duke Energy

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Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. Our electric utilities serve 8.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 50,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Our natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Our company employs 28,000 people.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1904