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Nuclear Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DTE Energy

Licensed Nuclear Operator

Newport, MI · On-site

... Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi. Those duties include ... Monitors and interprets plant parameters and manipulates plant equipment by simultaneously ...

DTE Energy

Licensed Nuclear Operator

Newport, MI · On-site

... Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi. Those duties include ... Monitors and interprets plant parameters and manipulates plant equipment by simultaneously ...

NextEra Energy

Reactor Operator - License Class

IA · On-site

Other duties as assigned including ensuring safe and efficient operation of the nuclear plant while ... Completes the site Reactor Operator (RO) License * Develops planning, organizing, and directing ...

Southern Company

General Plant Operator

Newnan, GA

General Plant Operator (Operations and Maintenance Technician) Georgia Power Company - Plant Yates ... nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia ...

Southern Company

General Plant Operator

Newnan, GA · On-site

General Plant Operator (Operations and Maintenance Technician) Georgia Power Company - Plant Yates ... nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia ...

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Nuclear Plant Operator information

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How much do nuclear plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear plant operator in the United States is $33.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $60.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money do nuclear plant operators make?

Nuclear plant operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in shifts and require specialized training and licensing to operate nuclear reactors safely.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Nuclear Plant Operator?

A Nuclear Plant Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling nuclear reactors, turbines, and auxiliary equipment to ensure safe and efficient power generation. Daily tasks include interpreting control room data, responding to system alarms, performing routine inspections, and coordinating with maintenance and engineering teams. Operators must also adhere to strict safety protocols, conduct regular equipment tests, and document all operational activities. The role often involves working in shifts to support 24/7 plant operations, requiring effective communication and collaboration with other operators and support staff.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Plant Operator, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of physics and engineering principles, typically supported by specialized training or an associate degree in a technical field. Competency with control systems, instrumentation panels, and regulatory requirements such as NRC licensing is essential. Excellent situational awareness, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are key soft skills for this role. These qualifications are crucial for maintaining safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance in a high-stakes environment.

What is a Nuclear Plant Operator job?

A Nuclear Plant Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring nuclear reactors, turbines, and other equipment to ensure the safe and efficient production of electricity. They follow strict protocols, adjust controls, and respond to abnormalities to maintain plant safety. Operators also conduct routine inspections, log data, and collaborate with engineers and technicians. Extensive training, including licensure from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), is typically required. The role demands strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and adherence to safety procedures.

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

Nuclear engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $100,000 and $130,000, with top earners in specialized roles or with extensive experience reaching around $150,000. Earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and would generally require advanced positions, management roles, or significant overtime in the nuclear industry.

How do I become a Nuclear Power Plant Operator?

To become a nuclear power plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training and certification from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Most operators gain experience through on-the-job training and must pass licensing exams that test knowledge of reactor systems, safety procedures, and regulations.

How hard is it to become a nuclear plant operator?

Becoming a nuclear plant operator requires completing specialized training, obtaining a license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and gaining experience through on-the-job training. The process is rigorous and involves passing written exams, practical assessments, and background checks, making it a challenging career to enter. Strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments are essential.
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Nuclear Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Licensed Nuclear Operator

Licensed Nuclear Operator

DTE Energy

Newport, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 52 rated energy and utility

Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states.
But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities. When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing. Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things.
Testing Required: EEI POSS Test
Job Summary
This position is for a Reactor Operator license candidate who will perform the duties of a Licensed Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi. Those duties include manipulation of reactor and other controls to effect the safe, reliable and efficient operation of the nuclear station; directing the activities of nuclear operators; and ensuring that periodic tests and inspections are performed in accordance with NRC regulations.
Key Accountabilities
  • Monitors and interprets plant parameters and manipulates plant equipment by simultaneously regulating reactivity, steam, water, temperatures, flows, pressures, generator loads, voltages, etc.
  • Operates and provides protection on any plant equipment.
  • Directs the activities of Nuclear Operators including scheduling work, giving work direction and managing flow.
  • Initiates repair orders and/or arranges for necessary maintenance to instruments, gauges, and mechanical or electrical equipment. Inspects, tests, accepts or rejects maintenance work.
  • Responsible for checking all instruments, controls, mechanisms, and systems prior to startup. Personnel tours plant to inspect equipment to assure safe, efficient operation. Takes appropriate action to correct unsatisfactory conditions by reporting, tagging, erecting barriers, applying emergency operating procedures, etc.
  • Exchanges factual information with directors, managers and federal government regulatory agencies, other utilities and vendors/suppliers/contractors.
  • Responds to alarms and signals and takes corrective action deemed necessary by operating equipment or issues direct operating orders to other plant personnel. As necessary, follows up to ensure proper execution of orders.
  • Acts as Fire Brigade Leader in directing the fire brigade in firefighting activities.

Qualifications
The candidate's education and experience must be verified and in accordance with Regulatory Qualifications List and ACAD 10001, Guidelines for Initial Training and Qualification of Licensed Operators as described below:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 27 months of Total Power Plant Experience OR
  • 6 months performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at Fermi 2 PP OR
  • 12 months performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at a BWR facility or
  • 18 months of performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at a PWR facility OR
  • 6 months performing plant operational duties as an ACTIVE licensed reactor operator at a BWR facility or
  • 12 months performing plant operational duties as an ACTIVE licensed reactor operator at a PWR facility OR
  • 18 months in position equivalent to the reactor operator position at a military reactor such as:
    • Reactor Operator
    • Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer
    • Engineering Watch Supervisor / Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor

Additional Qualifications
Other Qualifications
  • Must successfully pass POSS Exam
  • Pass physical examination for Nuclear Regulatory Commission Regulation 396, "Certificate of Physical Exam" and Guide 1.134, "Medical Evaluation of Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses".
  • Must successfully pass the Reactor Operator License Examination and maintain license

PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS
At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.

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