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Nuclear Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ability to perform field walkdowns in operating industrial and nuclear plant environments. * Ability to climb ladders, navigate stairs, access confined spaces, and work in varying environmental ...

Ability to perform field walkdowns in operating industrial and nuclear plant environments. * Ability to climb ladders, navigate stairs, access confined spaces, and work in varying environmental ...

Ability to perform field walkdowns in operating industrial and nuclear plant environments. * Ability to climb ladders, navigate stairs, access confined spaces, and work in varying environmental ...

Ability to perform field walkdowns in operating industrial and nuclear plant environments. * Ability to climb ladders, navigate stairs, access confined spaces, and work in varying environmental ...

Will need to complete Plant Operator Selection System (POSS), Basic Math and Science Test (BMST ... N14S - Submarine Nuclear Propulsion Plant Supervisor - Electrical * N15S - Submarine Nuclear ...

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Nuclear Plant Operator information

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$18

$33

$61

How much do nuclear plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 1, 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.

Is it hard to get a job at a nuclear power plant?

Getting a job as a nuclear plant operator can be competitive and requires specialized training, including a high school diploma or equivalent, and often a nuclear licensing exam. Candidates typically need relevant experience, technical skills, and certifications such as NRC licenses, making the hiring process rigorous but attainable with proper preparation.

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.

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 written and practical exams to obtain licensure, demonstrating knowledge of reactor systems, safety procedures, and operational protocols.

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. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, technical knowledge, and strong problem-solving skills, with many roles requiring several years of related experience. The process is rigorous due to safety and regulatory standards in the industry.
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Infographic showing various Nuclear Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Engineer V Civil/Structural - Nuclear

Engineer V Civil/Structural - Nuclear

Zachry Group

Charlotte, NC

$92K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Zachry Group rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 79 rated construction


Job description

Zachry Nuclear Engineering, Inc. (ZNE) is currently seeking an Engineer V for a direct hire position for our Stonington, CT or Charlotte, NC office. Openings for civil/structural, electrical, I&C and mechanical engineering. This is an in-office position in either our Stonington, CT or Charlotte, NC office. This position is not remote.

Position Synopsis: Individual will be relied upon to perform a variety of engineering and design activities involving power plant upgrades and/or new power plant projects. The individual should have extensive experience with power plant systems, components, and structures related to their engineering discipline. The individual will be responsible for planning, organizing, and preparing modifications and shall be capable of independently evaluating, selecting, and using standards, techniques, procedures and criteria for technical projects. The individual must be familiar with codes and standards applicable to the nuclear power industry as well as possess a working knowledge of applicable NRC regulations. Typical activities include developing specifications and/or modification packages, defining design scope, developing design criteria documents, identifying, and selecting equipment and instruments, and developing system functionality.

The position includes managing budget, scope schedule and quality associated with the designated work assignment with minimal guidance and technical oversight. Position will require the ability to devise new approaches to technical problems with a broad knowledge of precedents in the industry. The position will require interfacing and coordinating with multiple design disciplines as well as with the customer's representatives. The individual must be able to work on project teams with other engineers to evaluate conditions as well as proposed modifications which will improve plant performance, safety, and reliability. The individual must have experience in reviewing and checking designs, drawings and data prepared by other engineers. Managing project teams as well as providing mentoring oversight to entry level and junior engineers will be required.

Education Required (minimum): BS (in applicable degree for discipline position) from an ABET accredited engineering program.

Experience Required (minimum): 20 years (minimum) of related experience. At least 10 of those years with nuclear commercial power plant experience and actual field experience on nuclear plant projects. Experience with operating plant procedures, processes, and nuclear plant licensing.

Other Required Qualifications (minimum): All applicants must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as presentation skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office software, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, is required. Effective time management skills are required as position may involve working on several projects concurrently. Individuals will be required to understand and comply with company policies, procedures, and processes. Ability to pass security and drug screening and maintain unescorted nuclear plant access is required. Overtime work is required at times. Travel is required to client sites with occasional periods of field/office work. Ability to perform walk downs of equipment in an industrial plant environment, to include climbing ladders, accessing security-controlled areas, and entering confined spaces and controlled hazardous areas is required.

Education Desired: MS (in applicable degree for the discipline position) from an ABET accredited engineering program is desirable.

Certification(s) or License(s) Desired: Professional Engineering registration (PE) is desirable.

Certain positions at Zachry Nuclear may involve access to information and technology subject to export controls under U.S. law. If applicable to the position, the capability of a candidate to comply with such laws will be taken into consideration by Zachry Nuclear in its hiring processes.

Zachry Nuclear Engineering, Inc. maintains a drug free workplace. 

Zachry Nuclear Engineering, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled 

Note: Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Education Required (minimum): BS (in applicable degree for discipline position) from an ABET accredited engineering program.

Experience Required (minimum): 20 years (minimum) of related experience. At least 10 of those years with nuclear commercial power plant experience and actual field experience on nuclear plant projects. Experience with operating plant procedures, processes, and nuclear plant licensing.

Other Required Qualifications (minimum): All applicants must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as presentation skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office software, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, is required. Effective time management skills are required as position may involve working on several projects concurrently. Individuals will be required to understand and comply with company policies, procedures, and processes. Ability to pass security and drug screening and maintain unescorted nuclear plant access is required. Overtime work is required at times. Travel is required to client sites with occasional periods of field/office work. Ability to perform walk downs of equipment in an industrial plant environment, to include climbing ladders, accessing security-controlled areas, and entering confined spaces and controlled hazardous areas is required.

Education Desired: MS (in applicable degree for the discipline position) from an ABET accredited engineering program is desirable.

Certification(s) or License(s) Desired: Professional Engineering registration (PE) is desirable.

Individual will be relied upon to perform a variety of engineering and design activities involving power plant upgrades and/or new power plant projects. The individual should have extensive experience with power plant systems, components, and structures related to their engineering discipline. The individual will be responsible for planning, organizing, and preparing modifications and shall be capable of independently evaluating, selecting, and using standards, techniques, procedures and criteria for technical projects. The individual must be familiar with codes and standards applicable to the nuclear power industry as well as possess a working knowledge of applicable NRC regulations. Typical activities include developing specifications and/or modification packages, defining design scope, developing design criteria documents, identifying, and selecting equipment and instruments, and developing system functionality.

The position includes managing budget, scope schedule and quality associated with the designated work assignment with minimal guidance and technical oversight. Position will require the ability to devise new approaches to technical problems with a broad knowledge of precedents in the industry. The position will require interfacing and coordinating with multiple design disciplines as well as with the customer's representatives. The individual must be able to work on project teams with other engineers to evaluate conditions as well as proposed modifications which will improve plant performance, safety, and reliability. The individual must have experience in reviewing and checking designs, drawings and data prepared by other engineers. Managing project teams as well as providing mentoring oversight to entry level and junior engineers will be required.


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About Zachry Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Zachry Group is America's pacesetter in turnkey construction, engineering, maintenance, turnaround and fabrication services in the power, energy, chemicals, manufacturing and industrial sectors. It works with customers to plan, build, and renew their most critical facilities, so they can achieve their immediate and long-term goals, all at the highest safety standards. Zachry Group operates 35 offices, and averages 20,000 employees working in more than 400 locations nationwide. Please visit www.zachrygroup.com for more information.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1924