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Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Ormat

Plant Operator 1

Reno, NV · On-site

Control a variety of power-generation equipment and machinery during normal operation, scheduled ... When assigned as a Plant Operator 2,3, or 4: * Successfully complete the Plant Operator 2 ...

Ormat

Plant Operator 1

Reno, NV

Control a variety of power-generation equipment and machinery during normal operation, scheduled ... When assigned as a Plant Operator 2,3, or 4: * Successfully complete the Plant Operator 2 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Loyalton, CA

$92K - $110K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Cold Springs, NV

$108K - $129K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Dayton, NV

$94K - $112K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Delleker, CA

$99K - $119K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Stagecoach, NV

$100K - $120K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Carson City, NV

$96K - $115K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Sparks, NV

$100K - $120K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Doyle, CA

$100K - $120K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Kings Beach, CA

$105K - $126K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Incline Village, NV

$104K - $125K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Mogul, NV

$105K - $126K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Truckee, CA

$112K - $135K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Minden, NV

$99K - $119K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Verdi, NV

$98K - $117K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Golden Valley, NV

$108K - $130K/yr

... decommissioning of nuclear powered ships and submarines from Naval Reactors Headquarters and ... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ...

Ormat

Supervisor, Chemical Applications

Reno, NV

Must be able to travel extensively (at least 25% of working time) to Power Plant locations ... Must be able to work in plant operating areas including exposure to noise, vibrations, heat and ...

Ormat

Supervisor, Chemical Applications

Reno, NV · On-site

Must be able to travel extensively (at least 25% of working time) to Power Plant locations ... Must be able to work in plant operating areas including exposure to noise, vibrations, heat and ...

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All JobsNuclear Power Plant Operator JobsNuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs in Reno, NV

Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

See Reno, NV salary details

$18

$33

$61

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant operator in Reno, NV is $33.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $60.62 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 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 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 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 Reno, NV? For Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Reno, NV are:
What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Reno, NV with the most Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings:
Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,278 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Plant Operator 1

Ormat

Reno, NV • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Ormat rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Position Summary
The primary responsibility of a Plant Operator is to ensure that the operation of the power plant is safely and efficiently carried out in accordance with Plant Safety Procedures and Standard Operating Procedures. Additional duties include; monitoring plant systems and equipment on a continuous basis, and responding to alarms and out of specification parameters by taking appropriate corrective action.
Essential Functions
  • Strictly adhere to and enforce safety procedures and successfully complete operator safety qualifications within the designated timeframes.
  • Control a variety of power-generation equipment and machinery during normal operation, scheduled maintenance, and emergency repair procedures.
  • Review routine operating data troubleshoot abnormal indications and take corrective actions.
  • Utilize a variety of analog and digital informational displays to understand operational performance variables, maintain a chronological log of plant activities and ensure optimal level of production.
  • Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities.
  • Prepare, review, edit, and recommend operating procedures.
  • Perform preventive maintenance tasks (PM's).
  • Perform fire equipment testing.
  • Assist with equipment isolation, evacuation and lockout/tagouts.
  • Must be able to operate a vehicle in a safe manner, enter and exit vehicle without assistance.
  • Must be able to remain alert while driving for continuous period of time and read and understand maps.
  • Must be able to work overtime, weekends and holidays when necessary.
  • Must be able to work 12-hour rotating shifts and cover call outs as required.
  • Must be able to read and follow written procedures.
  • Must be able to interpret mechanical process and electrical drawings.
  • Monitor meters, gauges, and control boards to verify operational parameters, and adjust equipment, generator output, voltage, and electricity flow rates according to standard protocols and power grid requirements.
  • Attends monthly safety and Operator training as required.
  • Participate in regular training to improve performance, acquire professional licenses, and maintain certifications required by Ormat and government regulations.
  • When assigned as a Plant Operator 2,3, or 4:
  • Successfully complete the Plant Operator 2 qualifications within the designated timeframes.
  • Collaborate with contractors and vendors for all activities.
  • When assigned as a Plant Operator 3 or 4:
  • Successfully complete the Plant Operator 3 qualifications within the designated timeframes.
  • Collaborate with contractors and vendors for all activities.
  • Take readings and enter data into the plant computer.
  • Participate in the administrative maintenance of the plant operating manuals.
  • Direct activities and assist in training plant operators.
  • Review station and equipment logs.
  • Respond to plant recovery following upsets.
  • Maintain proficiency in the operation of the plant.
  • Assure that the plant meets its generation requirements while operating in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Perform Shift Supervisor duties when needed.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively with other power plant personnel, including managers, engineers and repair technicians to encourage teamwork and coordinate tasks.

Other Responsibilities
  • Performs environmental and general housekeeping duties.
  • Perform other duties as directed.

Education, Experience, and Skills Required
  • Ability to understand procedures and instructions to the areas of assignment as would be acquired in four years of high school
  • Must be able to read, write and speak English at a level which will permit the employee to accurately understand and communicate information to perform the job duties safely and efficiently.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license with a driving record acceptable to Ormat's Safe Driving policy.
  • Must be able to use and acquire knowledge of a variety of computer software applications in e-mail communications and spreadsheets. Must be proficient in MS Excel, Outlook, and use of the Internet.
  • Must be able to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
  • Experience:
  • Plant Operator 2: Six (6) months of experience as a Plant Operator 1 or demonstrated ability to perform the Plant Operator 1 tasks with little or no supervision.
  • Plant Operator 3:
  • Must have one (1) year experience as a Plant Operator 2 or demonstrated ability to perform the Plant Operator 2 and Plant Operator 3 tasks with little or no supervision.
  • Leadership skills of supervisory experience with the ability to move into a shift supervisor role is a plus.
  • Plant Operator 4:
  • Must have one (1) year experience as a Plant Operator 3 or demonstrated ability to perform the Plant Operator 3 and Plant Operator 4 tasks with little or no supervision.

Physical Requirements
  • The ability to lift 50 lbs. periodically.
  • Must be able to frequently climb to and work off of elevated platforms, ladders and walkways.
  • Must be able to work in confined spaces and in harsh weather conditions.
  • Must be able to wear and work in fire retardant clothing provided by Ormat.
  • Must wear protective equipment in the performance of some duties as required by safety procedures and regulations.
  • Plant Operator 1 & 2: This job requires sitting 30% of the time and standing 70%.
  • Plant Operator 3 & 4: This job requires sitting 80% of the time with the ability to stay alert

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