1

Nuclear Power Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by ...

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance (POSS / MASS) program in order to be considered a candidate for this ...

Power Plant Operator

Bellingham, WA · On-site

$43 - $49/hr

All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance (POSS / MASS) program in order to be considered a candidate for this ...

All applicants must be a successful candidate on the Plant Operator Selection System/Power Plant Operations and Maintenance (POSS / MASS) program in order to be considered a candidate for this ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA · On-site

$60.92/hr

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Showing results 21-40

Nuclear Power Plant Operator information

See salary details

$18

$33

$61

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant operator 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 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.
More about Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs?

The top employers for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Nuclear Power Plant Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

$27.28 - $43.06/hr

Per diem

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description


Job Summary and Responsibilities

As our Power Plant Operator at St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood Colorado, you will help ensure a safe and comfortable environment for patients, staff, and visitors by being responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the equipment that provides power, heating, cooling, and ventilation to a hospital facility.

Every day you will operate power systems, provide routine maintenance and inspections, and conduct regular inspections. You will be expected to monitor and track energy usage, and follow safety protocols.  

To be successful in this role, you must use your problem solving abilities to diagnose and fix mechanical failures, and your attention to detail to monitor complex systems and detect issues before they escalate. As a Power Plant Operator, you are essential to keeping the hospital operational 24/7.

  • Performs routine maintenance, lubrication, cleaning of boilers, chillers and all central plant equipment. 
  • Maintains the mechanical equipment such as engines, compressors, generators, pumps and steam boilers during the respective shifts.
  • Read and interpret blueprints and schematics.

15% PRN differential applies for this role!

Job Requirements

Required

  • High School Diploma/G.E.D.

Preferred

  • Certified Stationary Engineer
  • Underground Storage Tank Op A or B
  • Two (2) years of power plant operator experience
  •  
Where You'll Work

At CommonSpirit Mountain Region, we believe in the healing power of humanity and serving the common good through our dedicated work and shared mission to celebrate humankindness. 

Located in Lakewood, Colorado, St. Anthony Hospital is a Level I Trauma Center where we provide a full range of medical specialties and health care services to Denver and the surrounding region through our state-of-the-art medical campus and home base for Flight For Life® Colorado. With four trauma rooms including the T-10 room, a dedicated field-to-surgery suite ready 24/7 for trauma surgeons and specially trained teams, our staff can provide life-saving care to the most severely ill and injured patients. In 2023, we received our exciting Magnet® designation! We are so proud of our staff for this achievement, which is awarded to only 10 percent of hospitals around the world.  Numerous other awards, certifications, and accreditations have been granted to us from the American Heart Association; Chest Pain Center (CPC); American College of Cardiology; The Joint Commission’s National Quality Approval; the Emergency Nurses Association Lantern Award; NAPBC Accreditation; American College of Radiology and many others.

At St. Anthony Hospital. we combine a heritage of expert care with the latest in technology and innovation. If you’re looking to be part of a fast-paced environment where you can practice to the top of your profession in trauma, cardiology, stroke, neurosciences, breast imaging, cancer/oncology care, surgery and more, we invite you to apply.

Qualifications:

Required

  • High School Diploma/G.E.D.

Preferred

  • Certified Stationary Engineer
  • Underground Storage Tank Op A or B
  • Two (2) years of power plant operator experience
  •  
Employment Type: PRN