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Nuclear Power Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Supv Nuclear Engineering

Mineral, VA · On-site

$143K - $171K/yr

Excellent written and verbal communication skills Knowledge of power plant operations * Ability to ... Nuclear power plant experience to include 1 yr. On site experience to include .25 yr. Special ...

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Nuclear Power Plant information

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$18

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How much do nuclear power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant 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.

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

AspectNuclear Power PlantNuclear Reactor Operator
Primary RoleOversees entire plant operations, safety, and maintenanceControls and monitors reactor systems during operation
CredentialsEngineering or technical degree, licensingTraining, licensing, and certification specific to reactor operation
Work EnvironmentPower plant facilities, control rooms, maintenance areasControl room, reactor floor, safety zones
Industry UsagePower generation, energy sectorReactor operation within power plants

While both roles are integral to nuclear energy production, a Nuclear Power Plant encompasses the entire facility's operations, safety, and maintenance. In contrast, a Nuclear Reactor Operator focuses specifically on controlling and monitoring the reactor during operation. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations within the nuclear industry.

What kinds of jobs are available at a nuclear power plant?

Jobs at a nuclear power plant include reactor operators, maintenance technicians, health physicists, safety engineers, and plant managers. These roles require specialized training, certifications, and adherence to strict safety protocols to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.

How much do you get paid to work at a nuclear power plant?

Nuclear power plant operators and technicians typically earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Overtime, shift work, and safety training are common aspects of the job that can influence pay.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Power Plant Operator, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized technical training or an associate degree. Familiarity with control room systems, process monitoring software, and obtaining a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) license are critical. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for managing safety protocols and coordinating with team members. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant operation of nuclear power facilities.

What degree do I need to work at a nuclear power plant?

To work at a nuclear power plant, individuals typically need at least an associate's or bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Additional certifications, such as a Nuclear Regulatory Commission license or training in radiation safety, are often required for specific roles. Strong technical skills and understanding of safety protocols are essential in this environment.

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

Getting a job at a nuclear power plant can be competitive and requires relevant education, such as a degree in engineering, nuclear science, or related fields. Candidates often need specialized training, security clearances, and certifications like NRC licenses, along with experience in safety protocols and technical skills. The hiring process typically involves rigorous background checks and assessments of technical knowledge.

What is a nuclear power plant?

A nuclear power plant is a facility that generates electricity by using nuclear reactions, typically through the process of nuclear fission. In these plants, uranium or other radioactive materials are used as fuel to produce heat, which then creates steam to drive turbines and generate electricity. Nuclear power plants are known for producing large amounts of energy with low greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. However, they require strict safety measures to manage radioactive materials and prevent accidents. These plants play a significant role in providing reliable, large-scale energy in many countries.

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

Employees at nuclear power plants often face unique challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, managing high levels of responsibility, and working in regulated environments that require constant vigilance. Teamwork is essential, as most tasks involve collaboration with engineers, technicians, and safety specialists to ensure operational integrity. Additionally, employees may need to participate in ongoing training and drills to stay current with industry standards and emergency procedures.
More about Nuclear Power Plant jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Power Plant jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Power Plant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Power Plant jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Power Plant jobs are:
What states have the most Nuclear Power Plant jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Power Plant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Plant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 74% Full Time, 2% Temporary, 20% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 88% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Nuclear Power Plant Training Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Nuclear Power Plant Training Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Leidos

West Mifflin, PA • On-site

$82K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 428 rated business services


Job description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Your greatest work is ahead!

Leidos Defense has a current opening for a Nuclear Power Plant Training Subject Matter Expert (SME) to work in West Milton, NY or West Mifflin, PA. This is an opportunity to use your power plant experience to support US Navy training. In this project we support Navy power plant training curricula designed by instructional experts, experienced Navy power plant technicians, and subject matter experts in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Training Program. The selected candidate will be part of a multi-disciplinary team consisting of instructional designers, multimedia designers, and other naval nuclear power plant SMEs.

If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

Leidos Defense provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, largescale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world's toughest security challenges for customers with "can't fail" missions. To explore and learn more, click here!

Are you ready to make an impact? Begin your journey of a flourishing and meaningful career, share your resume with us today!

Responsibilities Include:

Work with instructional designers, multimedia designers, and other naval nuclear power plant SMEs to develop technical training content that will be used for Navy technical training.

Perform reviews of the multi-disciplinary team's work and provide input on their operational experience and understanding of the manuals.

Read and understand tasking from a project schedule to help support strict deadlines.

Basic Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree with 6 or more years' experience in the Navy Nuclear Propulsion Program (NNPP). Four years of directly related experience may offset the degree requirements.

Graduate of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Training Program (NNPTP) and previously qualified Engineering Watch Supervisor or Engineering Officer of the Watch.

Hands-on experience with S9G power plants

Active Final DOD Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

NNPTP instructor experience.

Active or current DOE L level clearance.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:May 4, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $82,550.00 - $149,225.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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