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Nuclear Power Plant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Energy Solutions

Nuclear Turbine Manager

Athens, AL · On-site

... power facility. • Technical Expertise: Thorough understanding of steam turbine systems, generator operations, control systems, and nuclear plant protocols. Proficiency with diagnostic tools ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Harvest, AL

$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

Decatur, AL

$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

Athens, AL

$95K - $113K/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

Lexington, AL

$88K - $106K/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

Hartselle, AL

$88K - $105K/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

Madison, AL

$88K - $105K/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 ...

All JobsNuclear Power Plant JobsNuclear Power Plant Jobs in Decatur, AL

Nuclear Power Plant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$17

$31

$57

How much do nuclear power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant in Decatur, AL is $31.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $57.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nuclear power plant?

A nuclear power plant is a facility that generates electricity by using nuclear reactions, typically through the process of nuclear fission. In these plants, uranium or other radioactive materials are used as fuel to produce heat, which then creates steam to drive turbines and generate electricity. Nuclear power plants are known for producing large amounts of energy with low greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel plants. However, they require strict safety measures to manage radioactive materials and prevent accidents. These plants play a significant role in providing reliable, large-scale energy in many countries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear power plant operator?

To thrive as a Nuclear Power Plant Operator, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a high school diploma and specialized technical training or an associate degree. Familiarity with control room systems, process monitoring software, and obtaining a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) license are critical. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for managing safety protocols and coordinating with team members. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant operation of nuclear power facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working at a nuclear power plant?

Employees at nuclear power plants often face unique challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, managing high levels of responsibility, and working in regulated environments that require constant vigilance. Teamwork is essential, as most tasks involve collaboration with engineers, technicians, and safety specialists to ensure operational integrity. Additionally, employees may need to participate in ongoing training and drills to stay current with industry standards and emergency procedures.

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

AspectNuclear Power PlantNuclear Reactor Operator
Primary RoleOversees entire plant operations, safety, and maintenanceControls and monitors reactor systems during operation
CredentialsEngineering or technical degree, licensingTraining, licensing, and certification specific to reactor operation
Work EnvironmentPower plant facilities, control rooms, maintenance areasControl room, reactor floor, safety zones
Industry UsagePower generation, energy sectorReactor operation within power plants

While both roles are integral to nuclear energy production, a Nuclear Power Plant encompasses the entire facility's operations, safety, and maintenance. In contrast, a Nuclear Reactor Operator focuses specifically on controlling and monitoring the reactor during operation. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job expectations within the nuclear industry.

Is it hard to get a job at a nuclear power plant?

Getting a job at a nuclear power plant can be competitive and typically requires relevant education, such as a degree in engineering, nuclear science, or related fields, along with specialized training and certifications like NRC licensing. Candidates often need to pass background checks, drug tests, and security clearances, and some roles require prior experience in the industry or technical skills. The hiring process can be rigorous due to safety and regulatory standards.

What kind of jobs are at a nuclear power plant?

Jobs at a nuclear power plant include reactor operators, nuclear engineers, radiation protection technicians, maintenance technicians, and safety personnel. These roles require specialized training, certifications, and adherence to strict safety protocols to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Power Plant jobs in Decatur, AL?

For Nuclear Power Plant jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Plant jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Plant jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Nuclear Power Plant jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Nuclear Power Plant job openings:

Nuclear Power Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Plant job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,135 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Mechanical Designer 3 - Nuclear Power

Decatur, AL • On-site

Sargent & Lundy
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 450 rated engineering

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Sargent & Lundyexternal

$68K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description
This position allows for a hybrid work schedule with a mix of work spent in office and working remote from home.
  • Under the direction of the Mechanical Project Lead, this position will offer you the opportunity to work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in developing mechanical general arrangement, piping isometric, pipe support, and mechanical equipment layout drawings in a 3-D model
  • Utilize Hexagon's SmartPlant S3D modeling software and SPF database to generate mechanical design deliverables, BOMs, and commodity lists
  • Understand and interpret piping & instrumentation diagrams developed using SPID and create physical design consistent with the engineering requirements
  • Act as the mechanical design team lead in the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of an integrated mechanical design model
  • Resolve clashes and discrepancies in the 3D model and report status
  • Coordinate and provide guidance to other designers and project team members to ensure a complete and timely design
  • Independently plan and execute design of mechanical deliverables
  • Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced drafters and designers

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • Experience with SmartPlant S3D modeling software including the following:
    • Understanding of the integration aspects of SPID, SPF and S3D
    • Clash detection resolution
    • Discrepancy checks between deliverables
    • Interface with SmartPlant Administrators in the development of mechanical deliverable templates and catalogs
    • Drawing Presentation Rules Set Up
    • Plant model data management
  • Minimum three years of detailed design experience in the development of mechanical plant design drawings; piping, pipe supports and equipment layout
  • Proficiency with design software tools in executing 3D plant layout models
  • Experience in the review of project deliverables and drawing requirements
  • Experience in the review of vendor drawings and interface points
  • Ability to interface with engineering and design teams of other disciplines in the plant design process.

Valued but not required experience:
  • Proficiency with MicroStation and AutoCAD
  • Microsoft Office tools

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$68,325 - $104,385
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
About This Business Unit
Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.
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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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