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Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Plant Utilities Engineer 1 (NY HELPS)

Rome, NY · On-site

$56K - $68K/yr

Or 4. Must have been an enlisted gas turbine systems technician, submarine nuclear propulsion plant operator reactor control, utilities man, machinist mate, or engineman with the U.S. Navy; Or 5. ...

General Matter

UF6 Operator

Los Angeles, CA

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

We are designing, building, and operating the world's lowest-cost enrichment services, here in the ... Navy nuclear training (submarine or aircraft carrier propulsion plant operations) or other military ...

General Matter

UF6 Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

We are designing, building, and operating the world's lowest-cost enrichment services, here in the ... Navy nuclear training (submarine or aircraft carrier propulsion plant operations) or other military ...

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Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator information

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How much do nuclear propulsion plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear propulsion plant operator in the United States is $33.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $60.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a nuclear propulsion plant operator aboard a naval vessel?

As a Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator, your daily tasks include monitoring reactor controls, performing routine system checks, and executing operational procedures to ensure safe and efficient power generation. You will also participate in regular drills, maintenance activities, and troubleshoot any equipment anomalies. Collaboration with engineering and safety teams is essential, as is maintaining detailed logs and adhering to strict safety protocols to support the vessel's mission.

What is the difference between Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator vs Nuclear Reactor Operator?

AspectNuclear Propulsion Plant OperatorNuclear Reactor Operator
CertificationsRequires NRC licenses, specialized trainingRequires NRC licenses, reactor-specific training
Work EnvironmentMarine vessels, submarines, aircraft carriersPower plants, research reactors
Industry UsageNaval and military maritime industryCommercial and research nuclear facilities

Both roles require NRC licensing and involve operating nuclear systems, but Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operators primarily work on naval vessels, while Nuclear Reactor Operators work in civilian power plants and research facilities. The key difference lies in their work environment and specific operational focus.

How do I become a nuclear propulsion plant operator?

To become a nuclear propulsion plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training at a naval or civilian nuclear training program. This includes completing technical coursework, gaining hands-on experience, and obtaining necessary certifications or licenses, such as a nuclear reactor operator license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the United States.

How much do nuclear propulsion plant operators get paid?

Nuclear propulsion plant operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and level of certification. They often work in highly regulated environments such as military or commercial nuclear facilities and require specialized training and security clearances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear propulsion plant operator, and why are they important?

A Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator is a specialized professional responsible for operating and monitoring the nuclear reactors that power ships or submarines, primarily in the naval sector. Their duties include controlling reactor systems, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and maintaining optimal performance of the propulsion machinery. They undergo rigorous training to handle complex systems and respond to emergencies. This role is critical for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of nuclear-powered vessels. Operators often work in teams and must maintain high levels of attention to detail and discipline.

How hard is it to be a nuclear propulsion plant operator?

Becoming a nuclear propulsion plant operator requires extensive training, including specialized technical education, on-the-job training, and certification. The job demands high attention to safety protocols, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in a high-pressure environment, often with shift work and strict regulatory compliance.
Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,481 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Naval Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) Program - TX

U.S. Navy

Waco, TX • On-site

$150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

Location: Nationwide (training in Charleston, SC; potential duty stations worldwide) Pay: ~$70,000 annually while in college; $80,000–$90,000 starting post-graduation; $150,000+ by the end of a 5-year contract Bonus: $30,000 upon acceptance

About the Program

The NUPOC Program offers a direct pathway into one of the most elite and intellectually demanding communities in the U.S. Navy. While completing your degree, you’ll receive full pay and benefits as an active-duty Ensign. Upon graduation, you’ll begin a 5-year active-duty contract as a Naval Nuclear Propulsion Officer, leading highly trained teams and managing the operation of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers.

What You’ll Do

As a NUPOC officer, you’ll select one of several career tracks, each offering unique leadership opportunities:

Submarine Officer

  • Lead as one of only a handful of officers aboard a nuclear-powered fast-attack or ballistic missile submarine.
  • Responsible for the safe operation of the reactor, ship systems, and navigation.
  • Gain hands-on experience in tactics, intelligence, and nuclear propulsion while serving in one of the most challenging environments on Earth.

Aircraft Carrier (Surface Nuclear) Officer

  • Lead the reactor department aboard a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the centerpiece of American naval power.
  • Oversee teams managing propulsion and electrical systems that keep a 100,000-ton warship and its air wing operational.
  • Combine engineering leadership with strategic-level operations experience.

Nuclear Power School Instructor

  • Teach newly commissioned officers the fundamentals of nuclear science and reactor operations at the Navy’s Nuclear Power School in Charleston, SC.
  • Develop the next generation of nuclear-trained officers through rigorous academic instruction in thermodynamics, reactor physics, and systems engineering.
  • Sharpen your own technical expertise while building mentorship and teaching skills.

Training Reactor Instructor

  • Train officer and enlisted students on a prototype naval reactor — an operational, land-based nuclear plant.
  • Oversee students as they perform watchstanding, drills, and reactor operations in real-world conditions.
  • Gain unique experience blending engineering leadership, reactor operations, and high-stakes training.

Naval Reactors Engineer

  • Serve in Washington, D.C. at Naval Reactors Headquarters, the program that Admiral Rickover built.
  • Work directly with civilian engineers, shipyards, and national laboratories to design, develop, and maintain nuclear propulsion systems for the entire fleet.
  • Gain unmatched technical project management experience at the intersection of engineering and policy.

Benefits

  • Compensation & Stability:
    • ~$70,000 annually while still in school
    • $80,000–$90,000 starting salary after graduation
    • $150,000+ annual earning potential by the end of your initial 5-year contract
    • $30,000 signing bonus upon acceptance
    • Full active-duty benefits (healthcare, housing allowance, retirement accrual)
  • Career Growth:
    • Accelerated leadership training
    • Hands-on experience with advanced nuclear propulsion technology
    • Career flexibility across Navy communities and post-service civilian careers
  • Education Support:
    • Possible graduate school opportunities
    • World-class nuclear training pipeline in Charleston, SC

Eligibility Requirements

  • U.S. Citizen
  • At least 19 years old and no older than 29 at commissioning (waivers possible)
  • Currently enrolled in or completed:
    • Calculus I & II
    • Physics I & II with calculus
  • No specific major required — applicants from all degree programs are eligible if coursework requirements are met
  • Strong academic performance

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