ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Nuclear Power Reactor Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

BWXT

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy.

BWXT

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Operations Manager, Machinist, Power Plant Operator, Reactor Operator, Power Plant, Operations ...

BWX Technologies

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy.

BWXT

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$86K - $157K/yr

SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy ... Operations Manager, Machinist, Power Plant Operator, Reactor Operator, Power Plant, Operations ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsNuclear Power Reactor Operator JobsNuclear Power Reactor Operator Jobs in Virginia

Nuclear Power Reactor Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$908

$1.8K

$1.9K

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

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear power reactor operator in Virginia is $1,758.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,733.33 and $1,775.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia? For Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Nuclear Power Reactor Operator job openings:
Nuclear Power Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power Reactor Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $21,101 per year, or $10.1 per hour.

Reactor Operations Engineer-Lynchburg,Virginia

BWXT

Lynchburg, VA

$95K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers. Our company supplies precision manufactured components, services and fuel for the commercial nuclear power industry across four continents. Our joint ventures provide environmental restoration and operations management at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical radioisotope production in North America and microreactors for various defense and space applications. For more information, visit www.bwxt.com . Follow us on LinkedIn , X , Facebook and Instagram .
Welcome to BWXT
We believe in empowering our employees and cultivating a dynamic workplace that fosters growth and collaboration. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find opportunities to challenge yourself, learn from seasoned experts, and contribute to nuclear innovation. We required a diverse range of skills to support our work in the markets that drive our business and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life stages who are passionate about making a difference.
BWXT is People Strong, Innovation Driven - be part of BWXT's innovation hub. BWXT's Advanced Technologies (AT) group researches, designs, and develops innovative new nuclear reactors, nuclear rocket propulsion systems, and radioisotope production systems for both internal and external customers.
If you are looking for a career where your experience is valued, innovative thinking is fostered, and barrier-free teamwork is embraced every day, then this opportunity is for you.
Position Overview:
As our Reactor Operations Engineer , you will provide operational insights and guidance to design engineers to ensure the development of reactor technologies employ operational principals. This position will participate in development of reactor plant operating strategies, concepts, and procedures, and will be deeply embedded with all aspects of reactor design and development activities to ensure systems integration and functionality meet the requirements for safe, efficient, and reliable operations. This role will also provide support to terrestrial, maritime, microreactor, and space reactor projects.
Location:
On-site in Lynchburg, VA at the Advanced Technologies Office
Your Day to Day as an Reactor Operations Engineer:
  • Lead the development and implementation of reactor operating strategies.
  • Lead the development of the reactor concept of operations to describe the use of the system from the perspective of the reactor operator, encompassing all modes of operation.
  • Lead the preparation of reactor operating procedures, including normal and off-normal conditions and events, surveillance procedures, alarm response procedures, etc.
  • Lead the development and preparation of nuclear operations and engineering training materials.
  • Integrate and coordinate across disciplines to implement operating approaches for safe, efficient, and reliable plant operations.
  • Support reactor simulator development, to include interfacing with multiple organizations and contractors, aggregating design data, and developing scenarios for evaluations.
  • Support development of control algorithms for semi-autonomous and/or manual operations.
  • Support the evaluation of integrated plant response to various events, accidents, and malfunctions.
  • Support the design of plant control and monitoring interfaces, including the Human Machine Interface in the control room as well as other operator interfaces.
  • Develop operations training material for internal and external customer use.
  • Collaborate with designers for optimized maintainability of the systems.
  • Participate in design reviews and provide feedback from an operations and maintenance perspective.

Required Qualifications:
  • A bachelor's degree in engineering or physics is required.
  • A minimum of four (4) years of experience in nuclear operations or engineering is required; on-the-job training in nuclear operations does not count toward the experience requirement.
  • Must be familiar with the interrelationships and dependencies of reactor systems, encompassing nuclear, mechanical, I&C and electrical systems - and their response as an integrated power plant system.
  • Must be familiar with the operation and maintenance of reactor equipment.
  • Must have demonstrated ability to collaborate through influence within matrixed organizations.
  • Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy.
  • Prior experience with the development and implementation of control schemes for nuclear plant operations in normal and off-normal conditions.
  • Nuclear Operations Training experience.
  • Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance experience.
  • Familiarity with high temperature gas reactor technologies.
  • Experience in the design of fluid systems.
  • Experience in the design of I&C systems.
  • Experience in the design of electrical systems.
  • Experience working with U.S. Government customer (e.g., DOD, DOE, NASA).

What We Offer:
  • Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work-life balance.
  • Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
  • An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
  • The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
  • Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!

Pay: $86,000.00 - $157,000.00
The base salary range for this position in Virginia (US-VA) at the start of employment is expected to be between $86,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year. However, the base salary offered is based on local job market factors, and may vary further depending on factors specific to the selected job candidate, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to these considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, such as an annual cash incentive in addition to a full range of medical, retirement, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided at such time the selected job candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, the selected job candidate will be employed 'at-will,' unless employed at a location and in a position subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The company further reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment, compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and other market factors.
As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and related entities ("BWXT" or the "Company") complies with all federal, state, and local laws and customer requirements regarding health and safety protocols. As such, all BWXT new hires will be required to adhere to applicable Company health and safety requirements within the workplace as a condition of employment.
Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Position requires U.S. citizenship with (no dual citizenship) ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy (DOE) security clearance which involves an extensive criminal and financial background investigation, drug test and previous employment reference verifications.
BWXT is committed to the concept of Equal Employment Opportunity. We have established procedures to ensure that all personnel actions such as recruitment, compensation, career development, benefits, company-sponsored training and social recreational programs are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, protected veteran or other protected status.
BWX Technologies, Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries (BWXT) is not responsible for and does not accept any liability for fees or other costs associated with resumes or candidates presented by recruiters or employment agencies, unless a binding, written recruitment agreement between BWXT and the recruiter or agency exists prior to the presentation of candidates or resumes to BWXT and includes the specific services, job openings, and fees to be paid ("Agreement"). BWXT may consider any candidate for whom a recruiter or agency has submitted an unsolicited resume and explicitly reserves the right to hire such candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency unless an Agreement is in place prior to presentation and such Agreement explicitly encompasses the job opening for which such fees or costs are sought. An email, verbal or other informal contact with any person within BWXT will not create a binding agreement. Agencies or recruiters without an Agreement are directed not to contact any hiring managers of BWXT with recruiting inquiries or resumes. Recruiters and agencies interested in partnering with BWXT may contact BWXT's Talent Acquisition team at talent_acquisition@bwxt.com.
Nearest Major Market: Lynchburg
Nearest Secondary Market: Virginia
Job Segment: Operations Manager, Machinist, Power Plant Operator, Reactor Operator, Power Plant, Operations, Manufacturing, Energy

Apply