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Nuclear Power Reactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orion Talent

Senior Reactor Operator

Braceville, IL · On-site

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ... Length of required nuclear power plant facility experience is as follows: * For Comparable:

Talen Energy

Senior Reactor Operator In Training

Berwick, PA · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Earn and Maintain a Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license for the Susquehanna Nuclear Generating ... Please be aware that Talen Energy requires extensive Nuclear Power Plant background security ...

Talen Energy

Senior Reactor Operator In Training

Berwick, PA · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Earn and Maintain a Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license for the Susquehanna Nuclear Generating ... Please be aware that Talen Energy requires extensive Nuclear Power Plant background security ...

Talen Energy

Senior Reactor Operator In Training

Berwick, PA · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Earn and Maintain a Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license for the Susquehanna Nuclear Generating ... Please be aware that Talen Energy requires extensive Nuclear Power Plant background security ...

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Nuclear Power Reactor Operator information

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$1.9K

How much do nuclear power reactor operator jobs pay per month?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear power reactor operator in the United States is $1,773.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,750.00 and $1,791.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a nuclear power reactor operator?

To become a nuclear power reactor operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training and certification from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This includes completing a training program, passing written and practical exams, and gaining on-the-job experience under supervision. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a high-pressure environment are essential.

What are some common challenges faced by Nuclear Power Reactor Operators during a typical shift?

Nuclear Power Reactor Operators often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment malfunctions, responding quickly to alarms, and maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols under pressure. They must remain vigilant during long shifts, closely monitor multiple systems, and communicate effectively with engineers and other team members. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and the ability to stay calm and focused to ensure the reactor operates safely and efficiently.

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

Nuclear power reactor operators typically earn salaries well below $500,000 annually, with median wages around $100,000 to $130,000. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires advanced roles such as nuclear engineers, senior management, or specialized consultants with extensive experience and certifications. Salary levels depend on location, experience, and employer size.

How hard is it to be a nuclear reactor operator?

Becoming a nuclear reactor operator requires extensive training, including a bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience, and passing rigorous licensing exams. The job demands strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work under high-pressure conditions, often involving shift work in a highly regulated environment.

What are Nuclear Power Reactor Operators?

Nuclear Power Reactor Operators are professionals responsible for controlling nuclear reactors at power plants. They monitor reactor systems, adjust controls, and follow strict safety protocols to ensure the reactor operates safely and efficiently. Their duties also include responding to abnormalities, performing routine inspections, and coordinating with other plant personnel. Operators must be licensed and highly trained due to the complexity and safety requirements of the job.

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

AspectNuclear Power Reactor OperatorNuclear Power Plant Technician
CredentialsLicensing, training, and certification specific to reactor operationTechnical certifications, often in electrical, mechanical, or nuclear systems
Work EnvironmentControl room, reactor areas, safety monitoringEquipment maintenance, inspections, and troubleshooting in plant areas
Employer & IndustryPower plants, energy sector, regulated by nuclear authoritiesPower plants, maintenance firms, nuclear industry

While both roles work within nuclear power plants, Nuclear Power Reactor Operators focus on controlling and monitoring reactor systems, ensuring safe operation. Nuclear Power Plant Technicians handle maintenance, repairs, and technical support. Both require specialized training and certifications, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much do nuclear reactor operators get paid?

Nuclear power reactor operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $130,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. They require specialized training, certifications, and often work in shift schedules within nuclear power plants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Power Reactor Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Power Reactor Operator, you need a solid understanding of physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, along with a high school diploma or equivalent and extensive on-the-job training. Proficiency in using control room instrumentation, simulator training systems, and a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) license are typically required. Attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of nuclear reactors, maintaining regulatory compliance, and protecting public and environmental safety.
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Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Reactor Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $21,284 per year, or $10.2 per hour.
Senior Reactor Operator - Nuclear Operations

Senior Reactor Operator - Nuclear Operations

Westinghouse Electric Company, LLC

Cranberry, NC

$70 - $80/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Are you interested in being part of an innovative team that supports Westinghouse's mission to provide clean energy solutions? At WECTEC Staffing Services, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Westinghouse Electric Company LLC, we recognize that our employees are our most valuable asset and we seek to identify, attract and recruit the most qualified talent while recognizing and encouraging the value of diversity in the global workplace.

Opportunity Overview: We have a dynamic, diverse opportunity available for a formerly licensed Senior Reactor Operator - Nuclear Operations. This is a contract role based at Westinghouse World Headquarters in Cranberry Twp, PA but will consider remote candidates. You will report to the Sr. Manager, Engineering Nuclear Operations, Training, and Commissioning.

As a Senior Reactor Operator, you will use your knowledge in Emergency Operating Procedures (EOPs), for new plant design and the operating PWR fleet (including AP1000). You will work on the new generation of reactors like the AP300 SMR and eVinci microreactor, the new fleet of AP1000 and the operating fleet from all over the world.

The Nuclear Operations group is an innovative team that has supported the commissioning of PWRs since the beginning of the commercial nuclear power industry and plays an important role in plant operations today. We define and improve how nuclear power plants run worldwide with our experience, while we support utilities worldwide. Building your skills based on operating plant experience in the field, combined with new plant development, will be a major accelerator for your career in the nuclear industry.

Your Day-to-Day:

  • Apply knowledge about integrated plant operations to develop/update the way control room operators run plants with operating procedures in normal, abnormal and emergency conditions.
  • Validate various scenarios in control room simulators, before training reactor operators with them and implementing them in plants worldwide.
  • Scope of work will include the operating fleet (integrating operating experience and new scenarios) and the next generation of nuclear plants (SMR and microreactors), giving you learning and development opportunities in both worlds.
  • Develop test procedures supporting commissioning of new plants (like the AP1000) to demonstrate the functionality of components and systems from pre-op testing through the startup phases.
  • Develop plant operation and operating procedure for the Westinghouse eVinci Micro Reactor and AP300 Small Modular Reactor designs to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • Work with existing customers and internal team to develop NOPs, AOPs, EOPs, FSGs, and other related documents for the operating fleet including the AP1000.
  • Collaboration with new plant designers and licensed reactor operators to define the best and safest way to operate nuclear plants.
  • As an author of operating and test procedures, you may support the commissioning of new plants worldwide.

Who You Are:

  • 20+ years of experience working as a licensed Reactor Operator or Senior Reactor Operator in a Commercial Nuclear Power Plant (PWR) or experience as a qualified SRO Instructor.
  • Held a Senior Reactor Operator License for a Power Reactor in the past 5 years OR has been an active Operating Procedure Writer for a Power Reactor in the past 5 years.
  • We require detailed knowledge of PWR operation, systems, components, and procedures.
  • U.S. Citizenship or permanent resident status required (sponsorship not available).

Our Safety Pledge to You:

If you are as committed to your success as we are committed to your safety, then this is the position for you! For us, our guiding principle has always been and will continue to be the safety of our people. It's that simple!

Why WECTEC Staffing Services?

WECTEC Staffing Services delivers customer-focused solutions, offering everything from high-volume, cost-effective staffing to specialized niche roles, while maintaining best-in-class service. Our employees bring expertise across technical and corporate functions, supporting international contracts in over five countries. We invite you to explore opportunities within our distinguished global talent network.

WECTEC Staffing Services offers competitive pay to all of our employees. Additionally, most positions qualify for benefits including the following:

  • Comprehensive Health and Income Protection Benefits
  • 401(k) Savings Plan
  • Paid Vacations for Qualifying Positions

We are committed to transparency and equity in all our people practices. The base salary range for this position, which is dependent upon experience, qualifications and skills, is estimated to be $70.00/hour to $80.00/hour.

WECTEC Staffing Services continues to successfully place professional and technical resources into key roles globally. You can learn more by visiting www.wectecstaffing.com

You can submit your completed application, and explore other available options, using the following link: careers.westinghousenuclear.com

Get connected with WECTEC Staffing Services on social media: LinkedIn

Equal Opportunity Employer including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities

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