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Nuclear Power Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System One

Nuclear Engineer V, I&C

Oak Harbor, OH · On-site

$115/hr

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization ... Ability to perform field walkdowns in operating industrial and nuclear plant environments.

System One

Nuclear Engineer V, I&C

Oak Harbor, OH · On-site

$115/hr

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization ... Ability to perform field walkdowns in operating industrial and nuclear plant environments.

System One

Nuclear Engineer V, I&C

Oak Harbor, OH · On-site

$115/hr

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization ... Ability to perform field walkdowns in operating industrial and nuclear plant environments.

System One

Nuclear Engineer V, I&C

Oak Harbor, OH · On-site

$115/hr

Perform engineering and design activities supporting nuclear power plant upgrades and modernization ... Ability to perform field walkdowns in operating industrial and nuclear plant environments.

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Nuclear Power Operator information

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$916

$1.8K

$1.9K

How much do nuclear power operator jobs pay per month?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear power operator in the United States is $1,773.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,750.00 and $1,791.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Nuclear Power Operator vs Nuclear Reactor Technician?

AspectNuclear Power OperatorNuclear Reactor Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma, technical training, and licensingRequires an associate degree or technical certification, often with licensing
Work EnvironmentOperate and monitor nuclear power plant systems, often in control roomsMaintain, troubleshoot, and repair reactor systems, often in plant facilities
Industry UsageCommonly employed in power plants for plant operationOften works alongside operators, focusing on technical maintenance

The main difference between a Nuclear Power Operator and a Nuclear Reactor Technician lies in their roles: operators oversee plant operations and control systems, while technicians focus on maintenance and repairs. Both roles require specialized training and licensing, and they work closely within nuclear power plants to ensure safe and efficient plant functioning.

Is it hard to become a nuclear reactor operator?

Becoming a nuclear reactor operator requires extensive training, including a bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience, and passing rigorous licensing exams administered by regulatory agencies. Operators must also complete on-the-job training, demonstrate technical skills, and often work in shift schedules, making the process challenging but structured for qualified candidates.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Power Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Power Operator, you need a solid understanding of nuclear physics, plant operations, and safety protocols, typically supported by a high school diploma and successful completion of operator training and NRC licensing. Familiarity with control room instrumentation, digital monitoring systems, and emergency response procedures is essential. Keen attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding operators apart. These competencies are critical for ensuring safe, reliable plant operations and rapid response to any anomalies or emergencies.

What does a Nuclear Power Operator do?

A Nuclear Power Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring nuclear reactors at a power plant to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Their duties include adjusting control rods, monitoring reactor systems, recording data, and responding to any abnormal conditions. They must follow strict safety protocols and work closely with engineers and other staff to maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Training and licensing are required for this highly specialized and safety-critical role.

How do I become a nuclear power operator?

To become a nuclear power operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training at a nuclear power plant or technical school. They must pass licensing exams from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and gain experience working in nuclear plant operations, demonstrating knowledge of safety protocols, reactor systems, and control room procedures.

How much money do nuclear operators make?

Nuclear power 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 in a highly regulated environment and require specialized training and licensing.

What are the primary challenges Nuclear Power Operators face during shift work, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Nuclear Power Operators often work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, which can disrupt sleep patterns and affect work-life balance. Managing fatigue, maintaining sharp attention to detail, and adhering strictly to safety protocols under varying conditions are key challenges. New hires can prepare by developing strong time-management habits, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and familiarizing themselves with shift work best practices to ensure they remain alert and effective during every shift.

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

Nuclear power operators typically earn salaries well below $500,000 annually, with median wages around $80,000 to $100,000. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires advanced roles such as nuclear engineers, senior managers, or specialized consultants with extensive experience and certifications. High earnings in the field are often associated with leadership positions or working in high-cost-of-living areas.
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What states have the most Nuclear Power Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Power Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Operator jobs are:
Nuclear Power Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power 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 $21,284 per year, or $10.2 per hour.
Sr. Engineer - Nuclear Power Engineer, Plant

Sr. Engineer - Nuclear Power Engineer, Plant

EN Engineering LLC

Los Angeles, CA • Remote

$112K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Join ENTRUST's Power Generation group as a fulltime Senior Nuclear Power Engineer – Plant focused on supporting plant engineering activities for nuclear power plants. This position offers remote and hybrid schedule options with minimal travel required.

ENTRUST Solutions Group Power Generation offers independent third-party engineering solutions to global power providers and plant operations. Power Generation's service offerings cover nuclear, conventional, and renewable power, as well as compliance, encompassing plant conceptual design through operations and maintenance.

As a key member of our Power Plant Engineering Team, you will serve as the subject matter expert and company resource for nuclear plant consulting projects. You'll be responsible for preparing for client meetings and leading discussions, demonstrating your technical expertise in power plant engineering to execute projects independently. You’ll also mentor younger team members and drive technical excellence across the team. Additionally, you'll assist management with business opportunities, conferences, and training sessions, and interface with industry organizations. With a travel requirement of up to 10-15% for site visits, client meetings, and conferences, this role offers a dynamic and engaging opportunity to make a significant impact on the business side of the industry.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Engineering.
  • 10+ years of demonstrated experience in power generation engineering at OEM’s and/or utilities.
  • 5+ years in the comparable nuclear industry positions: Turbine Engineer, System Engineer, Design Engineer, Equipment/Plant Subject Matter Expert, Senior Reactor Operator.
  • Proficiency in relevant engineering, calculations, assessments, and analyses.
  • Willingness to travel as required to support projects and business development initiatives.
  • Travel 10 – 15%

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Professional Engineering licensure and advanced degree
  • Vibration analysis capabilities/certification
  • Familiarity with nuclear plant administrative processes
  • Familiarity with nuclear modification and design processes
  • TapRooT root cause analysis qualification
  • SRO certification
  • Expertise in the following:
    • EHC Systems
    • LO Systems
    • Plant Performance Assessments
    • MSRs
    • Feedwater Heating
    • Pumps
    • Generator Auxiliaries
    • Major Turbine Valves
    • Main Condensers
    • Heat Exchangers

In return for top talent, ENTRUST Solutions Group offers:

  • Generous paid time off and benefits
  • 401(k) retirement program with a company match
  • Career development programs
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Flexible work schedule

ENTRUST Solutions Group is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Headhunters and recruitment agencies may not submit resumes/CVs through this website or directly to managers. ENTRUST Solutions Group does not accept unsolicited headhunter or agency resumes and will not pay fees to any third-party agency or company that does not have a signed agreement with ENTRUST Solutions Group.

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