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Nuclear Plant Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Engineer - Plant Hatch Summary of Job Duties: We have openings for engineers that may be filled as ... Engineers at Southern Nuclear may have opportunities to manage special projects. Also, engineers ...

Engineer II I&C - Nuclear

Stonington, CT

$98K - $118K/yr

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 ...

Engineer - Plant Hatch Summary of Job Duties: We have openings for engineers that may be filled as ... Engineers at Southern Nuclear may have opportunities to manage special projects. Also, engineers ...

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Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Plant Engineer information

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$97K

$135.7K

$176.5K

How much do nuclear plant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 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.

What are Nuclear Plant Engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,726 per year, or $65.3 per hour.
Nuclear Engineer V, Civil Structural

Nuclear Engineer V, Civil Structural

System One

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$98K - $117K/yr

Contractor

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

System One is seeking Nuclear Engineers (Civil/ Structural) to support nuclear power plant upgrades and new plant projects on-site for a long-term contract role. This senior-level engineering role requires extensive experience with nuclear power plant systems, components, and structures and the ability to independently lead technical engineering efforts. You will perform a variety of engineering and design activities supporting power plant modifications and new plant projects. This individual will plan, organize, and prepare plant modifications while independently evaluating and applying industry standards, techniques, procedures, and engineering criteria. Responsibilities include developing specifications and modification packages, defining design scope, preparing design criteria documents, identifying and selecting equipment and instruments, and developing system functionality. The role also includes managing project budget, scope, schedule, and quality with minimal technical oversight. The Engineer V will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams and client representatives to evaluate plant conditions and proposed modifications that enhance plant performance, safety, and reliability. Key Responsibilities
  • Perform engineering and design activities for nuclear power plant upgrades and new plant projects
  • Develop specifications, engineering calculations, and modification packages
  • Define engineering design scope and prepare design criteria documents
  • Identify and select equipment and instrumentation for plant systems
  • Evaluate plant conditions and develop engineering solutions to improve performance and reliability
  • Review and check engineering designs, drawings, and technical data prepared by other engineers
  • Manage project scope, schedule, budget, and quality for assigned work
  • Coordinate with multiple engineering disciplines and client representatives
  • Provide mentoring and technical oversight to junior and entry-level engineers
  • Participate in plant walkdowns and field support activities as required
Minimum Education
  • BS in Engineering from an ABET-accredited engineering program
Minimum Experience
  • 20+ years of related engineering experience
  • At least 10 years of commercial nuclear power plant experience
  • Direct field experience supporting nuclear plant projects
  • Experience with operating plant procedures, processes, and nuclear plant licensing
Required Qualifications
  • Strong familiarity with codes and standards applicable to the nuclear power industry
  • Working knowledge of applicable NRC regulations
  • Excellent verbal, written, and presentation communication skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to support multiple projects simultaneously
  • Ability to understand and comply with company policies, procedures, and processes
  • Additional Requirements:
  • Ability to pass security and drug screening and maintain unescorted nuclear plant access
  • Willingness to work overtime when required
  • Ability to travel to client sites with occasional field and office work
  • Ability to perform plant walkdowns, including climbing ladders, entering confined spaces, and accessing controlled areas in an industrial plant environment
Desired Education
  • MS in Engineering from an ABET-accredited engineering program
Desired Certifications
  • Professional Engineer (PE) License
Additional Information Per Diem available LI-KG1 DI-

Ref: #195-Precision Zachry