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

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Nuclear Power Plant information

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$32

$59

How much do nuclear power plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear power plant in Decatur, GA is $32.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.79 and $59.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Can you make $500,000 as a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with top earners in specialized roles or with extensive experience reaching salaries close to $150,000 to $200,000. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires advanced positions, management roles, or working in high-paying industries or locations, often supplemented by additional certifications and skills. Such high salaries are uncommon for standard nuclear engineering roles.

How much do you get paid to work at a nuclear power plant?

Nuclear power plant operators and technicians typically earn between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start around $50,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Overtime, shift differentials, and benefits are also common in this industry.

What kind of jobs are there at a nuclear power plant?

Nuclear power plants employ a variety of roles including nuclear engineers, reactor operators, maintenance technicians, health physicists, and safety personnel. These jobs require specialized training, certifications, and adherence to strict safety protocols to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.

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 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.

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

Getting a job at a nuclear power plant can be competitive and requires relevant education, such as a degree in engineering, nuclear science, or related fields. Candidates often need specialized training, security clearances, and certifications like NRC licenses, along with experience in safety protocols and technical skills. The hiring process typically involves rigorous background checks and assessments of technical knowledge.

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 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 cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Nuclear Power Plant jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Nuclear Power Plant job openings:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Plant job openings in Decatur, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,837 per year, or $32.6 per hour.
Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 2 - Nuclear

Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 2 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Atlanta, GA • Hybrid

$69K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

WORK LOCATION: This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week at the Sargent & Lundy office in Peachtree Corners, GA.

We offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your academic background in engineering:

  • You will work on a multi-discipline engineering team involved in nuclear power plant instrumentations and controls betterment projects. These projects are a synergistic integration of both electrical and mechanical engineering along with control theory.
  • You will work with electronic process sensors, digital controllers, touchscreen displays, pumps, valves, heat exchangers, steam turbines and reactors to improve the functionality of nuclear power plants.
  • You will prepare specifications for the procurement of instrumentation and controls equipment as well as engineering calculations associated with plant upgrades and modifications.
  • Through mentoring, classroom-style technical sessions, and on-the-job training, you will increase your knowledge and skills in your engineering discipline.
  • You will also have the opportunity to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for project coordination and field verification of designs. 

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

  • BS degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background and coursework in analog and digital control systems, systems engineering, mechatronics, or robotics is required.
  • 1 or more years of experience in design engineering for nuclear power plant control systems
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:

  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.

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

$69,298 - $99,644
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.

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!


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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