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Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Performs operating care and minor maintenance on power plant equipment. Trains other Plant Operators. Must be able to work independently and with a team to perform required repairs by means of proper ...

Senior Engineer, Licensing

Newport, MI · On-site

$95K - $131K/yr

Engage in and maintain an awareness of nuclear industry regulatory trends and changes that relate to operating nuclear power plants, nuclear power plant decommissioning, spent nuclear fuel, and ISFSI ...

Senior Engineer, Licensing

Newport, MI · On-site

$95K - $131K/yr

Engage in and maintain an awareness of nuclear industry regulatory trends and changes that relate to operating nuclear power plants, nuclear power plant decommissioning, spent nuclear fuel, and ISFSI ...

... Operator in assignment and supervision of various maintenance and operational tasks. Operates as ... High School Diploma or GED * 4 years of power plant experience in the operation of boilers in a ...

Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS ... Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healt ...

Support emergency power operations, including generators and uninterruptible power supply (UPS ... Minimum of 3 - 5 years of experience operating central utility plant equipment in a hospital, healt ...

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Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$16

$29

$53

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

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant operator in Michigan is $29.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.34 and $53.03 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 $85,000 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-critical nature of the job and the need for strong technical skills and attention to detail.

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,560 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

PLANT SERVICE - Power Plant Operator

Andrews University

Berrien Springs, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

PLANT SERVICE - Power Plant Operator
Job Classification
Hourly Full-time (35-40)
Position summary
Maintains and repairs stationary steam boilers and boiler house auxiliaries by performing the following duties. Operates automatically fired boilers to generate steam that supplies heat or power for buildings or industrial processes by performing the following duties. Operates chillers, cooling towers, and chilled water systems. Rotates weekend shifts to take call for emergency service calls including repairs beyond normal work hours as required. May be called in at any time to assist with emergency repairs as needed. When on normal call rotation the response time to an emergency should not exceed more than thirty minutes.
Qualifications summary
Associate Degree from college technical school, or one to two years related experience and / or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Working knowledge of computer programs essential to energy-management / boiler room operations. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. We are willing to invest in the training of the right candidate for this postion.
Must be a Seventh-day Adventist in good and regular standing. Duties and responsibilities
Lights gas or oil fed burners. Cleans and repairs boilers and auxiliary equipment. Observes pressure, temperature, and draft meters on panel to verify specified operation of automatic combustion control systems, feed water regulators, burners, chillers, pumps, and cooling towers. Turns valves and adjusts controls to set specified fuel feed, draft openings, water level, and steam pressure of boiler, chiller controls, cooling tower efficiencies, and chilled water system. Inspects and repairs boiler fittings such as safety valves, regulators, automatic control mechanisms, and water columns, and auxiliary machines such as pumps, draft fans, and burners. Is responsible for replacement of damaged boiler tubes and plates. Repairs or replaces high pressure piping. Paints surface of equipment. Performs water pressure test by pumping water into system to determine location of leaks. Observes boiler and auxiliary units to detect malfunctions and makes repairs, such as changing burners and tightening pipes and fittings. Maintains water softeners, dealkilizers, makeup water, condensate pump and tanks, boiler feed pumps, and chemical feed systems. Tests and treats boiler feed water and cooling towers. Maintains tunnels, all piping, condensate pumps, and steam pipes. Maintains log of meter and gauge readings and records data such as water test results and quantity of fuel consumed.
Supervisory responsibilities
N/A
Qualifications
Associate Degree from college technical school, or one to two years related experience and / or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Working knowledge of computer programs essential to energy-management / boiler room operations Current Valid Driver's License Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports and business correspondence. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of mangers, consumers, vendors, and the general public. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written oral, diagram, or schedule form. We are willing to train for this postion.
Must be a Seventh-day Adventist in good and regular standing. Technical competencies
N/A
Interpersonal interactions
N/A
Physical demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger handle, or feel; talk or hear. A good sense of smell is necessary. The employee frequently is required to walk; reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must regularly lift and / or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and / or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Work environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to wet and / or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, toxic or caustic chemicals, and outside weather conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; extreme heat; risk of electrical shock; and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.