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Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

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Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

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How much do nuclear power plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant operator in Delaware is $33.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $60.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a nuclear power plant operator do?

A Nuclear Power Plant Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the systems that generate electricity in a nuclear power plant. They manage equipment such as reactors, turbines, and cooling systems to ensure safe and efficient operation. Operators also respond to abnormalities, perform safety checks, and follow strict protocols to prevent accidents. Their role is critical in maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and continuous power generation.

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 solid understanding of physics, engineering principles, and safety protocols, generally supported by a high school diploma, technical training, and NRC operator licensing. Proficiency in using control room instrumentation, plant management software, and radiation monitoring systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring plant safety, regulatory compliance, and reliable power generation.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear power plant operators in their daily work?

Nuclear Power Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols while troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions under pressure. The role requires constant vigilance, as operators must monitor multiple systems and respond quickly to any irregularities. Additionally, adapting to rotating shifts and staying updated with evolving regulations and technology can be demanding. However, strong teamwork and comprehensive training help operators manage these challenges effectively.

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

AspectNuclear Power Plant OperatorNuclear Reactor Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, licensing, and on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in nuclear technology or related field, certification
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, plant floors, safety zonesReactor systems, maintenance areas, technical labs
Job RoleMonitor plant operations, start/stop reactors, ensure safety protocolsMaintain and repair reactor systems, assist in troubleshooting

Both roles are essential in nuclear power plants, with operators focusing on overseeing plant functions and technicians handling technical maintenance. While their credentials and daily tasks differ, they work closely to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.

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 much do nuclear power plant operators get paid?

Nuclear power 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.

Is it hard to become a nuclear power plant operator?

Becoming a nuclear power plant operator requires extensive training, including a bachelor's degree in a related field, on-the-job training, and passing licensing exams from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The process is rigorous due to the safety and technical demands of operating nuclear reactors. Operators must also develop strong problem-solving skills and adhere to strict safety protocols throughout their careers.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Delaware?

For Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Delaware look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Delaware are:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,541 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Power Plant Operator I - Wilmington

Christiana Care Health Services

Wilmington, DE • On-site

$33.92/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


ChristianaCare rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Details

Do you want to work at one of the Top 100 Hospitals in the nation? We are guided by our values ofLoveandExcellenceand are passionate about delivering health, not just health care. Come join us at ChristianaCare!

ChristianaCare is looking for a full-time Certified Power Plant Operator I in Wilmington, Delaware to operate multiple high-pressure boilers/steam plant and auxiliary equipment such as plant air compressors, fuel and feed water systems. To operate multiple refrigeration machines and chiller plants including auxiliary equipment such as cooling towers, condenser and chilled water pumps and chemical treatment systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operates steam generation plant for heating, dietary, humidification, laundry processes and sterilization. The ability to maintain steam systems at required pressures and temperatures.
  • Operates and monitors various chiller plants and related equipment/systems.
  • Monitors and reports any alarms associated with ATS, Emergency Generator and medical gas panels.
  • Monitors gauges and meters to determine operating condition of power plant.
  • Reports and logs about unusual conditions.
  • Maintains a clean and safe workstation.
  • Performs all aspects of operator maintenance.
  • Performs chemical tests for water in boiler systems, chiller plants and maintains appropriate chemical levels.
  • Starts and stops boilers, chillers and related equipment as needed for load transfer or maintenance reasons.
  • Cleans condenser tubes on chillers as scheduled prior to cooling season.
  • Loads/unloads auxiliary equipment record data (e.g., hours of operation, temperatures, pressure, fuel consumption).
  • Maintains adequate oil levels in storage tanks for proper operation of power plant equipment.
  • Assists boiler room maintenance personnel in equipment repair, replacement and modification.
  • Assists in the take down and repair of boilers for annual inspection.
  • Participate in certification exercises, shop meetings and other activities required to gain information and instructions that will keep the Power Plant operating effectively and efficiently.
  • Performs assigned work safely adhering to established departmental safety rules and practices. Reports to supervisor in a timely manner of any unsafe activities, conditions, hazards or safety violations that may cause injury to oneself, other employees, patients and visitors.
  • Performs all duties in accordance with the Power Plant Operator list of responsibilities for each designated shift.

Hours: Rotating Shifts - Mandatory overtime if needed to maintain plant coverage

Education and Experience Requirements:

High School Graduate or Equivalent.

Current Driver License.

Stationary Engineering License (preferred).

One (1) year previous experience in operation of high-pressure steam plant (preferred).

Special requirements:

A City of Wilmington Fireman's License, or any higher level of License (1st, 2nd or 3rd class Engineers license) if assigned and scheduled to work alone at the Wilmington Hospital. This license is not required for the Christiana Hospital Campus.

Other City and State Stationary Engineering Licenses such as the City of Philadelphia Engineer Class "A" license, Maryland Engineering License or New Jersey Engineering License may be considered.

Must be able to successfully demonstrate the ability to complete the Christiana Care Stationary Engineer Exam within the first 90 days of employment. This Exam is consistent with the Wilmington Fireman's & 3rd Class Engineering License Exams.

Physical demands:

Strenuous work associated with direct power plant systems repair including operating chain falls and large wrenches, climbing cooling towers, boiler tops, ladder work and bending and stooping over equipment.

Working conditions:

Exposure to hot, high-pressure steam, pressurized hot water, oils, grease, hot surfaces, chemical fumes, soot, dust, heat and noise. Exposure to burns, scalds, eye and ear hazards and falls.

ChristianaCare Offers:
  • Collaborative and team focused environment
  • Full Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, etc.
  • 403(b)
  • Generous paid time off
  • Incredible Work/Life benefits including annual membership to care.com, access to backup care services for dependents through Care@Work, retirement planning services, financial coaching, fitness and wellness reimbursement, and phenomenal discounts through several vendors for hotels, rental cars, theme parks, shows, sporting events, movie tickets and much more!

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

This position has a starting rate of $33.92 per hour, regardless of prior experience. After six months of continuous employment, the hourly rate will automatically increase to $37.78 per hour. After one year of continuous employment, the hourly rate will automatically increase to $41.63.This pay rate/range represents ChristianaCare's good faith and reasonable estimate of compensation at the time of posting. The actual salary within this range offered to a successful candidate will depend on individual factors including without limitation skills, relevant experience, and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements.

Christiana Care Health System is an equal opportunity employer, firmly committed to prohibiting discrimination, whose staff is reflective of its community, and considers qualified applicants for open positions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Post End Date

Aug 29, 2026

EEO Posting Statement

ChristianaCare offers a competitive suite of employee benefits to maximize the wellness of you and your family, including health insurance, paid time off, retirement, an employee assistance program. To learn more about our benefits for eligible positions visithttps://careers.christianacare.org/benefits-compensation/


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About ChristianaCare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

ChristianaCare is one of the country's most dynamic health care organizations, centered on improving health outcomes, making high-quality care more accessible and lowering health care costs. ChristianaCare includes an extensive network of outpatient services, home health care, urgent care centers, three hospitals (1,299 beds), a free-standing emergency department, a Level I trauma center and a Level III neonatal intensive care unit, a comprehensive stroke center and regional centers of excellence in heart and vascular care, cancer care and women's health. It also includes the pioneering Gene Editing Institute and was rated by IDG Computerworld as one of the nation's Best Places to Work in IT. ChristianaCare is a nonprofit teaching health system with more than 260 residents and fellows. It is continually ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a Best Hospital. With the unique CareVio data-powered care coordination service and a focus on population health and value-based care, ChristianaCare is shaping the future of health care.

Industry

Outpatient health care

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Wilmington, DE, US

Year founded

1888