1

Nuclear Power Engineering 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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Power Engineering information

See salary details

$26K

$105.6K

$150K

How much do nuclear power engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear power engineering in the United States is $105,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In nuclear power engineering, senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually. These positions often require specialized knowledge of reactor systems, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance, and may involve working in high-responsibility environments or management capacities.

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 to $200,000. Earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and would generally require advanced positions, management roles, or significant overtime in the nuclear power industry.

What are the common career progression opportunities in Nuclear Power Engineering?

Nuclear Power Engineering offers a variety of career advancement paths, starting from entry-level engineering roles up to senior positions like Reactor Operator, Project Manager, or Plant Manager. With experience and additional certifications, professionals can move into specialized areas such as reactor design, safety analysis, regulatory compliance, or consulting. Many employers also provide opportunities for further education and leadership development within the company. Career advancement typically involves taking on more responsibility, managing teams, or overseeing larger projects, allowing you to shape both your technical expertise and leadership skills.

What is a Nuclear Power Engineering job?

A Nuclear Power Engineering job involves designing, maintaining, and improving nuclear power plants and systems to ensure safe and efficient energy production. Engineers in this field work on reactor design, radiation safety, fuel management, and regulatory compliance. They also analyze plant performance, troubleshoot technical issues, and develop new technologies for sustainable nuclear energy. This role requires expertise in nuclear physics, thermodynamics, and materials science, along with strong problem-solving skills.

What kind of jobs can a nuclear engineer get?

A nuclear engineer can work in power plant design, operation, and maintenance, focusing on nuclear reactor systems and safety protocols. They may also find roles in research and development, regulatory agencies, or consulting, often requiring knowledge of radiation safety, thermodynamics, and specialized software tools.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

In nuclear power engineering, senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand facilities or consulting positions. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, and typically requires specialized skills in reactor design, safety analysis, or project management.

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

To thrive in Nuclear Power Engineering, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or nuclear engineering, often with a bachelor's degree or higher, and a deep understanding of reactor systems and safety protocols. Familiarity with simulation software, regulatory compliance systems, and professional certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license or Nuclear Engineering Certification are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and clear communication enhance performance in this highly technical and regulated field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient operation of nuclear facilities and help meet stringent industry and governmental standards.

More about Nuclear Power Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Power Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Power Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Nuclear Power Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Power Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,594 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Mechanical Engineering Consultant 2 - Nuclear

Mechanical Engineering Consultant 2 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Augusta, GA โ€ข On-site

$145K - $222K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description
You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:
  • Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
  • Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power plant systems
  • Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems
  • Technical specifications and procurement documents for plant equipment
  • Vendor bid evaluations for plant equipment
  • Studies and options evaluations for modifications to operating nuclear power plants

In addition, you will have the opportunity to:
  • Develop engineering cost estimates for small to mid-sized client-requested work scopes
  • Visit client office and/or plant site locations to interface with the client and make presentations related to engineering tasks and status
  • Lead engineering project teams

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.
  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
  • 10 or more years of experience in the power industry
  • Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
  • PE license is beneficial, but not required

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
$145,310.00 - $222,001.00
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.

Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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