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Nuclear Power Reactor Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

EEI POSS Test Job Summary This position is for a Reactor Operator license candidate who will perform the duties of a Licensed Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi.

EEI POSS Test Job Summary This position is for a Reactor Operator license candidate who will perform the duties of a Licensed Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi.

EEI POSS Test Job Summary This position is for a Reactor Operator license candidate who will perform the duties of a Licensed Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi.

... of Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses". * Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. PRIVACY NOTICE TO ...

... Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses". * Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. PRIVACYNOTICE TO ...

... of Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses". * Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. PRIVACY NOTICE TO ...

Operations Shift Engineer

Newport, MI · On-site

$63K - $86K/yr

... of Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses". * Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. PRIVACY NOTICE TO ...

Operations Shift Engineer

Newport, MI

$63K - $86K/yr

... of Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses". * Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. PRIVACY NOTICE TO ...

Operations Shift Engineer

Newport, MI · On-site

$63K - $86K/yr

... Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses". * Must obtain and maintain Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. PRIVACYNOTICE TO ...

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Nuclear Power Reactor Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$799

$1.5K

$1.6K

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

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear power reactor operator in Michigan is $1,545.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,525.00 and $1,558.33 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Nuclear Power Reactor Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Reactor Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $18,551 per year, or $8.9 per hour.

Licensed Nuclear Operator

DTE Energy

Newport, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states.
But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities. When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing. Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things.
Testing Required: EEI POSS Test
Job Summary
This position is for a Reactor Operator license candidate who will perform the duties of a Licensed Nuclear Operator (LNO) at the Fermi 2 Power Plant located in Newport, Mi. Those duties include manipulation of reactor and other controls to effect the safe, reliable and efficient operation of the nuclear station; directing the activities of nuclear operators; and ensuring that periodic tests and inspections are performed in accordance with NRC regulations.
Key Accountabilities
  • Monitors and interprets plant parameters and manipulates plant equipment by simultaneously regulating reactivity, steam, water, temperatures, flows, pressures, generator loads, voltages, etc.
  • Operates and provides protection on any plant equipment.
  • Directs the activities of Nuclear Operators including scheduling work, giving work direction and managing flow.
  • Initiates repair orders and/or arranges for necessary maintenance to instruments, gauges, and mechanical or electrical equipment. Inspects, tests, accepts or rejects maintenance work.
  • Responsible for checking all instruments, controls, mechanisms, and systems prior to startup. Personnel tours plant to inspect equipment to assure safe, efficient operation. Takes appropriate action to correct unsatisfactory conditions by reporting, tagging, erecting barriers, applying emergency operating procedures, etc.
  • Exchanges factual information with directors, managers and federal government regulatory agencies, other utilities and vendors/suppliers/contractors.
  • Responds to alarms and signals and takes corrective action deemed necessary by operating equipment or issues direct operating orders to other plant personnel. As necessary, follows up to ensure proper execution of orders.
  • Acts as Fire Brigade Leader in directing the fire brigade in firefighting activities.

Qualifications
The candidate's education and experience must be verified and in accordance with Regulatory Qualifications List and ACAD 10001, Guidelines for Initial Training and Qualification of Licensed Operators as described below:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 27 months of Total Power Plant Experience OR
  • 6 months performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at Fermi 2 PP OR
  • 12 months performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at a BWR facility or
  • 18 months of performing plant operational duties as a non-licensed operator at a PWR facility OR
  • 6 months performing plant operational duties as an ACTIVE licensed reactor operator at a BWR facility or
  • 12 months performing plant operational duties as an ACTIVE licensed reactor operator at a PWR facility OR
  • 18 months in position equivalent to the reactor operator position at a military reactor such as:
    • Reactor Operator
    • Engineering Officer of the Watch / Propulsion Plant Watch Officer
    • Engineering Watch Supervisor / Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor

Additional Qualifications
Other Qualifications
  • Must successfully pass POSS Exam
  • Pass physical examination for Nuclear Regulatory Commission Regulation 396, "Certificate of Physical Exam" and Guide 1.134, "Medical Evaluation of Nuclear Power Plant Personnel Requiring Operator Licenses".
  • Must successfully pass the Reactor Operator License Examination and maintain license

PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS
At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.

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