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Nuclear Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valar Atomics

Senior Process Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for ... This engineer will own process system architecture from early concept and design through ...

Valar Atomics

Senior Process Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for ... This engineer will own process system architecture from early concept and design through ...

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

Process Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Reviewing and checking the work of other process engineers to determine accuracy and completeness ... Experience in Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear projects is a big plus. * To perform this job ...

GEM Technologies, Inc

Process Engineer

Greenville, SC · On-site

ABOUT THE ROLE We are seeking a Principal Process Engineer to join our team supporting Fluor on ... Founded in 1994 as a nuclear engineering firm to support federal operations in East Tennessee, GEM ...

SPECTRA TECH INC

Process Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Reviewing and checking the work of other process engineers to determine accuracy and completeness ... Experience in Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear projects is a big plus. * To perform this job ...

Merrick & Company

Process Engineer III

Oak Ridge, TN · Remote

This remote position will be a part of our Nuclear Services Technology Team and will support a ... Eight (8) years of process engineering experience. * Demonstrated ability to integrate process ...

Merrick & Company

Process Engineer III

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$102K/yr

The selected candidate will contribute to advanced nuclear and energy-related projects, ensuring ... Minimum of 8 years of process engineering experience, including substantial involvement in ...

Navarro Inc.

Process Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

Navarro Research and Engineering is recruiting an Project Engineer in Oak Ridge, TN. A DOE Q ... nuclear and environmental fields. Joining Navarro means being a part of an exceptional team ...

SHINE Technologies LLC

Process Engineer

Janesville, WI · On-site +1

$90K - $132K/yr

Description SHINE Technologies is seeking a Process Engineer who will focus on systems in the ... Experience working within a nuclear quality system Eligibility for employment is conditioned on the ...

SHINE Technologies LLC

Process Engineer

Janesville, WI · On-site

$90K - $132K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description SHINE Technologies is seeking a Process Engineer who will focus on ... Experience working within a nuclear quality system Eligibility for employment is conditioned on the ...

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All JobsNuclear Process Engineer Jobs

Nuclear Process Engineer information

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$97K

$135.7K

$176.5K

How much do nuclear process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear process engineer in the United States is $135,726.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,000.00 and $158,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear process engineers when working on plant optimization projects?

Nuclear Process Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing safety regulations with process efficiency, ensuring compliance with strict environmental standards, and integrating new technologies into existing systems. These projects require close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including operations, safety, and regulatory specialists. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential to address unexpected issues and to implement improvements without disrupting plant operations.

What is the difference between Nuclear Process Engineer vs Nuclear Reactor Operator?

AspectNuclear Process EngineerNuclear Reactor Operator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or related field; certifications varyHigh school diploma or equivalent; licensing required
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and optimize nuclear processes in labs or plantsOperate and monitor nuclear reactors in power plants
Industry UsageUsed in nuclear plant design, safety analysis, and process improvement

The main difference is that Nuclear Process Engineers focus on designing and improving nuclear processes, while Nuclear Reactor Operators are responsible for the day-to-day operation and safety of nuclear reactors. Both roles require specialized knowledge, but they serve different functions within the nuclear industry.

What does a nuclear process engineer do?

A Nuclear Process Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing processes used in the nuclear industry, such as fuel production, waste management, and reactor operations. They ensure that systems operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with strict regulatory standards. Their work often involves process simulation, safety assessments, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of nuclear plant operations. Additionally, they collaborate with other specialists to implement new technologies and improve plant performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear process engineer?

To thrive as a Nuclear Process Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering, process design, and safety analysis, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nuclear or chemical engineering. Familiarity with simulation software (e.g., MATLAB, AutoCAD, or process modeling tools) and knowledge of regulatory standards like NRC or DOE guidelines are essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills help you effectively manage complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial to ensuring safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant operation of nuclear processes.
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Nuclear Process Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $135,726 per year, or $65.3 per hour.

Senior Process Engineer

Valar Atomics

Torrance, CA • On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

About Valar Atomics
At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.
The Team
As part of the Engineering organization, Mechanical Engineering designs and develops the mechanical systems, components, and equipment that power Valar's advanced nuclear technologies. The team ensures designs are robust, manufacturable, and optimized for long-term performance.
The Role
Valar Atomics is seeking an experienced Senior Process Engineer to lead the design, development, testing, and operation of helium systems supporting next-generation high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technology. This engineer will own process system architecture from early concept and design through manufacturing and commissioning.
Key Responsibilities
  • Own the design, procurement, fabrication, assembly, and commissioning of helium process systems from concept through operation.
  • Lead manufacturing execution for assigned systems, including vendor selection, fabrication oversight, inspections, issue resolution, and acceptance testing.
  • Develop process system documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, equipment specifications, piping specifications, operating procedures, and engineering calculations.
  • Perform process engineering analyses including mass and energy balances, pressure drop, heat transfer, equipment sizing, gas flow, and transient system behavior.
  • Specify and integrate process equipment including pressure vessels, heat exchangers, adsorption systems, compressors, valves, piping, instrumentation, and gas analyzers.
  • Work directly with internal manufacturing, suppliers, and contract manufacturers to resolve fabrication issues, improve manufacturability, and ensure hardware meets design intent.
  • Support equipment procurement by developing technical requirements, reviewing vendor proposals, and approving manufacturing documentation.
  • Lead system integration, installation, startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting of helium process systems.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience designing industrial process systems, gas handling systems, thermal-fluid systems, or related energy systems.
  • Proven experience developing and delivering complex engineered systems from concept through commissioning or operational deployment.
  • Strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and process engineering principles.
  • Experience developing PFDs, P&IDs, process calculations, equipment specifications, and system operating procedures.
  • Familiarity with industrial instrumentation, process controls, and gas analysis systems.
  • Excellent technical communication, documentation, and cross-functional leadership skills.

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience with helium systems, cryogenic systems, high-pressure gas systems, gas purification, vacuum systems, or high-temperature process equipment.
  • Experience with high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), advanced reactor technologies, or other nuclear energy systems.
  • Familiarity with helium coolant chemistry, impurity control, moisture management, graphite compatibility, and gas sampling systems.
  • Working knowledge of ASME B31.3 Process Piping, ASME Section VIII Pressure Vessels, and applicable industrial gas handling standards.
  • Hands-on experience supporting commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and performance optimization of first-of-a-kind process systems.
  • Experience participating in design reviews, HAZOPs, FMEAs, and system safety analyses.

What We Offer
  • Competitive base salary
  • Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company
  • Comprehensive medical benefits
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite
  • Generous PPE stipend
  • High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy
  • Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement
  • Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders
  • The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
Salary
$144,000-$176,000 USD

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