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Nuclear Power Reactor Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Dover, DE

$98K - $117K/yr

... reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear powered ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Wilmington, DE

$95K - $114K/yr

... reactor design, fleet operations, and eventual defueling and decommissioning of nuclear powered ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

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All JobsNuclear Power Reactor Operator JobsNuclear Power Reactor Operator Jobs in Delaware

Nuclear Power Reactor Operator information

See Delaware salary details

$917

$1.8K

$1.9K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear power reactor operator in Delaware is $1,775.17, 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.

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.

How much do nuclear power reactor operators get paid?

Nuclear power reactor operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in shifts and require specialized training and licensing to operate nuclear reactors safely.

How do you 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, gaining on-the-job experience, and passing written and practical exams to obtain a reactor operator license. Strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work in a high-pressure environment are essential.

What is a nuclear power reactor operator?

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.

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

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.
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Delaware? For Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Delaware are:
Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Reactor Operator job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $21,302 per year, or $10.2 per hour.

Balance of Plant Senior Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Wilmington, DE

$84K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 446 rated engineering

Job description

Description

You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:

  • Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems, specifically, hydraulic, heat transfer, and heat balance analyses.
  • Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
  • Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power plant systems
  • Technical specifications and procurement documents for plant equipment
  • Vendor bid evaluations for plant equipment
  • Studies and options evaluations for modifications to operating nuclear power plants

In addition, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Develop engineering cost estimates for small to mid-sized client-requested work scopes
  • Visit client office and/or plant site locations to interface with the client and make presentations related to engineering tasks and status
  • Lead engineering project teams
Qualifications

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

Essential skills and experience:

  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
  • A minimum of five years of experience in the power industry
  • Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
  • Previous experience with power uprates and/or turbine related systems is favorable
  • PE license is beneficial, but not required 
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:

  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.
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$84,762 - $129,498Transparency StatementSargent & 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.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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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

Social media

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