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Nuclear Plant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Chapel Hill, NC

$83K - $100K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Middlesex, NC

$67K - $80K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Cary, NC

$91K - $109K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Knightdale, NC

$88K - $106K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Micro, NC

$78K - $94K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Kenly, NC

$78K - $94K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Youngsville, NC

$74K - $89K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Princeton, NC

$84K - $101K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Pittsboro, NC

$68K - $82K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Oxford, NC

$90K - $108K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Selma, NC

$78K - $94K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Louisburg, NC

$88K - $105K/yr

... nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical responsibility early in your career as part of a lean headquarters staff; work primarily in an analytical and oversight role ...

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All JobsNuclear Plant JobsNuclear Plant Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Nuclear Plant information

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$18

$32

$59

How much do nuclear plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear plant in Raleigh, NC is $32.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.64 and $59.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nuclear plant worker?

Nuclear plant workers are professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and overseeing the safe functioning of nuclear power plants. Their roles include monitoring reactor systems, handling nuclear fuel, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, and performing routine maintenance. They play a critical role in generating electricity while minimizing environmental and safety risks. Nuclear plant workers often need specialized training and must adhere to strict regulations to ensure the safety of both the workers and the surrounding community.

What are jobs at a nuclear plant?

A nuclear plant needs hundreds of workers to ensure all operations run smoothly. Your responsibilities and duties in this field differ significantly depending on the position, but engineers, technicians, and those with trade skills can find ample opportunities. For example, you can work as a carpenter, an electrician, a mason, a pipefitter, a mechanic, or a welder and provide maintenance and repairs. There are also available jobs as an accountant, a civil engineer, a lawyer, a financial manager, an entrepreneur, a lab technician, a reactor operator, or a heavy equipment operator. Chemists, scientists, and radiation protection specialists are also in demand in the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of physics, engineering principles, and power plant operations, typically supported by a degree in a relevant field and completion of operator licensing requirements. Familiarity with control room systems, simulation software, and regulatory compliance tools is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for managing plant safety and responding to emergencies. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operation of nuclear facilities.

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

AspectNuclear PlantNuclear Reactor Operator
CertificationsPlant-specific licenses, safety trainingReactor operator license from NRC
Work EnvironmentPower plant facilities, control rooms, maintenance areasReactor control rooms, operational zones
Employer & Industry UsagePower generation companies, energy industryPower plants, nuclear facilities

The main difference is that a Nuclear Plant refers to the entire facility involved in nuclear power generation, including various roles and departments. A Nuclear Reactor Operator specifically controls and monitors the reactor itself, requiring specialized licensing. While both work in nuclear energy, the plant encompasses broader operations, whereas the reactor operator focuses on reactor-specific tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working at a nuclear power plant?

Employees at nuclear power plants often face the challenge of maintaining strict safety protocols while working in highly regulated environments. Adhering to detailed procedures and regular training is essential to ensure both personal and public safety. Additionally, shift work and responding to unexpected technical issues can be demanding, requiring strong teamwork and clear communication among staff. The role can be rewarding, as employees play a vital part in providing reliable energy, but it also demands continuous learning and adaptability to evolving industry standards.
More about Nuclear Plant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Plant jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Nuclear Plant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Plant jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Nuclear Plant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Plant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Plant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Nuclear Plant jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Nuclear Plant job openings:
Nuclear Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Plant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,542 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Lead Mechanical Engineer 2 (Nuclear Plant Analysis) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Cary, NC • On-site

$134K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 443 rated engineering

Job description

Description
Our electric power generation clients are seeking to increase the power output of their existing power plants to meet the electric demands. This is expanding work in the Mechanical Analysis Engineering group. You will work on major systems, equipment and plant process in the following areas:
  • Develop and lead licensing basis system and component evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects.
  • This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and experience in power plant engineering.
  • Perform consulting level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
  • Prepare and review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
  • Prepare task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
  • Perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs to support the proposed power uprate.
  • Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
  • Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
  • Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks.
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation.
  • Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.

This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • This position requires a BSME from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
  • 12 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry.
  • Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
  • Experience and practical knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
    • Balance of plant system and component evaluations
    • Pinch point assessments and/or task reports
    • Heat balance
    • Power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink
    • Circulating Water and Ultimate Heat Sinks
  • All assignments require the preparation of calculations and/or reports, and excellent technical report writing skills are essential.
  • Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design.
  • Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
  • Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants.
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • MSME from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background
  • PE License

AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy
In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:
  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$134,546 - $205,557
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
About This Business Unit
Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

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About Sargent & Lundy

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Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media

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