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Nuclear Power Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Nuclear Power information

See Iowa salary details

$36.6K

$108.1K

$145.1K

How much do nuclear power jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear power in Iowa is $108,115.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,800.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectNuclear PowerNuclear Reactor Operator
Primary RoleOversees nuclear power plant operations, manages safety protocols, and ensures efficient electricity generation.Controls and monitors nuclear reactor systems during operation, following safety procedures and operational guidelines.
Required CertificationsEngineering degrees, nuclear safety training, and licensing.Nuclear reactor operator license, specialized training, and certification.
Work EnvironmentPower plants, control rooms, and safety facilities.Reactor control rooms and operational areas within nuclear facilities.
Industry UsageUsed by utility companies managing nuclear power plants.Employed directly within nuclear power plants to operate reactors.

While both roles are integral to nuclear energy production, Nuclear Power refers to the broader industry and plant management, whereas Nuclear Reactor Operator focuses specifically on controlling reactor systems during operation. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify career paths and job responsibilities within the nuclear industry.

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 engineering or physical sciences, typically supported by specialized training and licensure from regulatory authorities. Familiarity with control room systems, reactor monitoring technology, and safety protocols is essential, often requiring certification from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are crucial for coordinating with team members and maintaining safety. These capabilities are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of nuclear facilities, minimizing risks to personnel and the environment.

What are nuclear power workers?

Nuclear power workers are professionals who operate, maintain, and oversee nuclear power plants and related facilities. Their roles can include reactor operators, engineers, safety inspectors, and technicians who ensure the safe and efficient production of electricity using nuclear energy. They monitor equipment, enforce safety protocols, and respond to emergencies to protect people and the environment. These workers require specialized training and must adhere to strict regulatory standards to minimize risks associated with nuclear power generation.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in nuclear power operations?

Professionals in nuclear power operations often face challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, responding swiftly to unexpected equipment issues, and keeping up with evolving regulations. The role demands continuous learning and collaboration with highly specialized teams, including engineers, technicians, and regulatory personnel. Additionally, managing stress during emergency drills or actual incidents is crucial, as is communicating technical information clearly to both colleagues and external stakeholders.
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Power jobs in Iowa? For Nuclear Power jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Power jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Power jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Power job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 73% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,115 per year, or $52 per hour.

Mechanical Designer 2 - Nuclear Power

Sargent & Lundy

Cedar Rapids, IA • Hybrid

$64K - $93K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 438 rated engineering


Job description

Description

This position will require onsite support at the Duane Arnold Energy Center supporting project needs. This will start out as a remote position but could change to a hybrid work arrangement where you'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.

  • Under the direction of the Mechanical Project Lead, this position will offer you the opportunity to work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in developing mechanical physical layout drawings in a 3-D model
  • Challenging assignments that include the design of mechanical systems, and investigating, trouble-shooting, and solving a wide variety of mechanical design issues
  • Utilize 3D modeling software tools to generate mechanical design schematics
  • Act as the Mechanical design team lead in the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of an integrated mechanical design model
  • Coordinate and provide guidance to other designers and project team members to ensure a complete and timely design
  • Independently plan and execute design deliverables, such as general arrangements, piping isometrics, piping composites, pipe support drawings, and equipment location drawings
  • There may be the opportunity to conduct field walkdowns and data gathering at client facilities
  • Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced drafters and designers
Qualifications

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

Essential skills and experience:

  • An Associate's Degree in drafting, or a high school diploma and 1 or more years drafting course work or equivalent technical experience
  • Five or more years of detailed physical design experience in the development of mechanical general arrangements, piping systems, and supports
  • Proficiency with design software tools in executing 3D plant layout models
  • Experience in the review of mechanical equipment, including outlines and interface points, and coordinating and developing the associated deliverables
  • Ability to interface with engineering and design teams of other disciplines in the power plant design process

Valued but not required experience:

  • Proficiency with MicroStation
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$64,817 - $93,201Transparency 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

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