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How much do nuclear propulsion jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear propulsion in the United States is $51.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.18 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in Nuclear Propulsion?

Professionals in Nuclear Propulsion oversee the operation and maintenance of nuclear reactors used for powering vessels or facilities, monitor system performance, and ensure compliance with strict safety protocols. Daily tasks often involve conducting inspections, troubleshooting technical issues, performing preventative maintenance, and documenting system statuses. You may also participate in drills, collaborate closely with engineering teams, and assist in training new staff to maintain operational standards. The role is highly collaborative and requires constant vigilance to ensure both safety and efficiency.

What engineering jobs pay 500,000?

In the field of nuclear propulsion, senior engineering roles such as nuclear engineers, systems engineers, and project managers with extensive experience and advanced certifications can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in leadership positions or specialized consulting. These roles often require advanced degrees, security clearances, and expertise in nuclear systems, safety protocols, and project management. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and level of responsibility.

What is a Nuclear Propulsion job?

A Nuclear Propulsion job involves operating, maintaining, and overseeing nuclear reactors used for propulsion in submarines and aircraft carriers. These roles are typically found in the Navy and involve extensive training in reactor systems, thermodynamics, and radiation safety. Personnel ensure the safe and efficient operation of nuclear reactors to provide energy for propulsion and onboard electrical systems.

What is the highest paying job in the nuclear field?

The highest paying jobs in the nuclear field are often senior engineering roles such as Nuclear Engineering Managers or Nuclear Project Directors, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licenses.

How much does a nuclear propulsion officer make?

A nuclear propulsion officer typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. They often work in highly specialized environments such as naval submarines or aircraft carriers and require security clearances and specialized training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Nuclear Propulsion position, and why are they important?

To excel in Nuclear Propulsion, you need a solid background in nuclear engineering, physics, and mechanical systems, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and specialized military or industry training. Experience with reactor operations, control systems, and certifications such as U.S. Navy Nuclear Power Program or NRC licensure are highly valuable. Outstanding problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the capacity to work in high-pressure environments set top performers apart. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of nuclear propulsion systems in maritime or power generation contexts.

Is it hard to get a job at a nuclear power plant?

Getting a job as a nuclear propulsion technician or engineer at a nuclear power plant can be competitive and requires specialized education, such as a degree in nuclear engineering or related fields. Candidates typically need to pass background checks, obtain security clearances, and complete extensive training and certifications, including licensing exams. Experience with safety protocols and technical skills are also important for employment in this highly regulated industry.
More about Nuclear Propulsion jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Propulsion jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Propulsion job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Propulsion jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Propulsion jobs are:
What states have the most Nuclear Propulsion jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Propulsion jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Propulsion jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Propulsion jobs are:
Nuclear Propulsion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Propulsion job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,964 per year, or $51.9 per hour.
Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program

Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program

U.S. Navy

Clearwater, FL

$4K/mo

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense

Job description

For current undergraduate students, especially those pursuing majors such as mathematics, engineering, physics, or chemistry, you have the chance to get paid and receive a guaranteed Navy commissioning program while finishing school through the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) program.

Surface Warfare Officer (Nuclear)
If accepted into the NUPOC program as an aspiring Surface Warfare Officer (Nuclear), you can:

  • Receive a salary in excess of $4,000 per month for up to 30 months prior to your college graduation.
  • Receive an immediate one-time sign-on bonus of $15,000, plus an additional $2,000 bonus upon completion of nuclear propulsion training.
  • Enjoy military healthcare benefits while you are a student in the program.

Nuclear Submarine Officer
If accepted into the NUPOC program as an aspiring Submarine Officer, you can:

  • Receive a salary in excess of $4,000 per month for up to 30 months prior to your college graduation.
  • Receive an immediate one-time sign-on bonus of $15,000, plus an additional $2,000 bonus upon completion of nuclear propulsion training.
  • Enjoy military healthcare benefits while you are a student in the program.

Interested candidates should contact the local Navy Officer Programs Recruiter to discuss the opportunity to participate in a fleet visit to see if this career is right for you. The fleet visit is an all-expenses-paid 3-day trip to San Diego, CA, to visit an active submarine and meet with currently serving Submarine Officers. These trips are conducted every month, and there is no obligation to join the program in order to attend.

Naval Reactor Engineer
If accepted into the NUPOC program as an aspiring Naval Reactors Engineer, you can:

  • Receive a salary in excess of $4,000 per month for up to 18 months prior to your college graduation.
  • Receive an immediate one-time sign-on bonus of $15,000.
  • Enjoy military healthcare benefits while you are a student in the program.

Interested candidates should contact the local Navy Officer Programs Recruiter to discuss the opportunity to participate in a Naval Reactors visit to see if this career is right for you. The visit is an all-expenses-paid 3-day trip to the Navy Yard in Washington, DC, to meet with currently serving Naval Reactor Engineers.

These trips are conducted twice a year, and there is no obligation to join the program in order to attend.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be a U.S. citizen (dual citizens must renounce non-U.S. citizenship).
  • Be at least 19 years of age and less than 29 years of age at the time of commissioning (waivers up to 35 years of age for select jobs may be available).
  • Must pass a medical examination.
  • Must pass a background investigation.

Education Requirements
Candidates must be graduates or students of an accredited college or university in the United States or in a U.S. territory, pursuing a BA, BS, or MS (preferably in mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry, or other technical areas).

Applicants may apply as early as:

  • 30 months from completion of an undergraduate degree for Surface Warfare (Nuclear), Submarine, and Instructor positions.
  • 18 months from completion of an undergraduate degree for Naval Reactors Engineers.
  • 12 months from completion of a master’s degree for all NUPOC positions.

Additional Academic Requirements

  • Completed one academic year of calculus.
  • Completed one academic year of calculus-based physics.
  • A competitive GPA with a minimum grade of “B” in all technical courses (minimum grade of “C” in all technical courses for Nuclear Submarine Officer and Nuclear Surface Warfare Officer candidates).
  • General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you intend to serve Active Duty or Reserve Duty and whether you are currently serving, have served before, or have never served before.

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