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Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$93K - $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

Walworth, NY

$98K - $118K/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

Rochester, NY

$97K - $116K/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

Churchville, NY

$95K - $114K/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

Bloomfield, NY · On-site

$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 ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Lakeville, NY · On-site

$93K - $111K/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

Honeoye, NY · On-site

$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

Hilton, NY

$84K - $101K/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

Brockport, NY · On-site

$91K - $109K/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

Holley, NY

$89K - $107K/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

Batavia, NY

$93K - $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

Hemlock, NY

$95K - $114K/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 ...

Facade Today

Plant Utilities Engineer 1

Newark, NY · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

OR 3. Must have been an enlisted power generation equipment repairer with the U.S. Army; * OR 4. Must have been an enlisted gas turbine systems technician, submarine nuclear propulsion plant operator ...

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All JobsNuclear Power Plant Operator JobsNuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs in Rochester, NY

Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$18

$32

$60

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant operator in Rochester, NY is $32.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.03 and $60.00 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 are popular job titles related to Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Rochester, NY?

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

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY 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 Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,555 per year, or $33 per hour.

Plant Utilities Assistant (NY HELPS), Rochester Psychiatric Center, P27864

New York State

Rochester, NY • On-site

$42K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 188 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states

Job description

Duties Description As a Plant Utilities Assistant, you would assist in the operation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical and electrical equipment providing heat, hot water, ventilation, air conditioning, and electrical distribution in a safe and efficient manner. Minimum Qualifications Candidates from outside or within State service may be considered for hire under the Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement - Statewide (HELPS) program as a Plant Utilities Assistant if they have one of the qualifications listed: Graduate of heating, HVAC, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration apprenticeship program from the U.S. Air Force OR Enlisted machinery technician (MK) with the U.S

Coast Guard or possession of a certificate as a Marine Engineer issued by the U.S. Coast Guard OR Enlisted power generation equipment repairer with the U.S. Army OR Enlisted gas turbine systems technician, submarine nuclear propulsion plant operator reactor control, utilities man, machinist mate, or engineman with the U.S

Navy OR Merchant Mariner's Document (MMD) and qualified member of the engine department (QMED) as an oiler, fireman/water tender, refrigerating engineer or engineman with the U.S. Merchant Marine OR Completion of a New York State Department of Labor registered apprenticeship program for stationary engineers, plant maintenance (plumber/steamfitter), HVAC Mechanic or plant maintenance (refrigeration/AC) OR Possession of a High-Pressure Boiler Operating Engineer License or Stationary Engineer License OR Bachelor's degree in Facilities Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Marine Engineering OR Associate's degree in HVAC OR 1 year of full-time hands on experience in the maintenance and operation of commercial, industrial, institutional facility, computer applications of digital energy platforms and building analytics and/or performing diagnosis, repair of HVAC systems or boilers or auxiliary equipment OR 1 year of full-time hands on experience in a residential setting performing diagnosis, operation, maintenance repair of HVAC systems or boilers or auxiliary equipment OR Completion of an HVAC certificate or diploma from a BOCES program (440 hours) OR completion of an approved certificate in HVAC, electrical, refrigeration, boiler operations and maintenance, or plumbing from an accredited technical school or technology college. OR Candidates from within State service may be considered for transfer to a competitive class position if they have one year of permanent competitive or 55-b/55-c service in a title eligible for transfer under Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law

Additional Comments All OMH employees receive a generous benefits package including: NYS medical, dental, & vision insurance Access to tuition assistance programs Excellent opportunities for advancement & professional growth Paid time off - 13 paid vacation days in the first year, 5 paid personal days, 13 paid holidays, & paid sick leave NYS Retirement programs Background checks will be required. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.

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