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Nuclear Reactor Core Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zap Energy

Reactor Core Design Engineer

Everett, WA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

About Zap Energy Zap is advancing the next generation of nuclear power technology across fusion ... About the Opportunity Zap Energy is seeking a Core Design Engineer to support the Zap Micro Reactor ...

Last Energy

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX

$97K - $117K/yr

This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that ... Last Energy reactor core design, codes, and methods * Prepare and review safety analyses ...

Last Energy

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX

$97K - $117K/yr

This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that ... Last Energy reactor core design, codes, and methods * Prepare and review safety analyses ...

Last Energy

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering and safety analysis staff to ensure that ... Last Energy reactor core design, codes, and methods * Prepare and review safety analyses ...

TerraPower LLC.

Nuclear Analysis Engineer

Bellevue, WA · Hybrid

$111K - $133K/yr

The Nuclear Analysis Engineer will support advanced reactor core design and analysis activities, including fuel management, power distribution, reactivity coefficients, control rod worth, shutdown ...

TerraPower LLC.

Nuclear Analysis Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$111K - $133K/yr

The Nuclear Analysis Engineer will support advanced reactor core design and analysis activities, including fuel management, power distribution, reactivity coefficients, control rod worth, shutdown ...

Zap Energy

Micro Reactor Lead Engineer

Everett, WA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

Reactor Core * * Nuclear Fuel * * Reactor Internals * * Reactor Vessel * * Reactivity Control ... Perform engineering analysis in support of Reactor development. Write high quality documentation ...

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How much do nuclear reactor core engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear reactor core engineer in the United States is $105,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Nuclear Reactor Core Engineers in maintaining reactor safety and efficiency?

Nuclear Reactor Core Engineers frequently encounter the challenge of balancing reactor safety with optimal performance. They must monitor and adjust core parameters, such as temperature and neutron flux, to ensure safe operations while maximizing efficiency. Unanticipated changes in fuel behavior, equipment degradation, and strict regulatory requirements can add complexity to daily tasks. Collaboration with operations, maintenance, and safety teams is essential for quickly addressing issues and implementing improvements. Staying current with evolving safety standards and technological advancements is also vital for success in this role.

What does a Nuclear Reactor Core Engineer do?

A Nuclear Reactor Core Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and monitoring the core of a nuclear reactor, which contains the fuel and is the source of the reactor's power. They ensure the reactor operates safely and efficiently by managing reactor physics, core loading patterns, and fuel usage. These engineers also oversee core performance during operation, support refueling outages, and help develop safety procedures and protocols to prevent incidents. Their work is critical to maintaining the safe and efficient generation of nuclear energy.

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

AspectNuclear Reactor Core EngineerNuclear Reactor Operator
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in nuclear safetyTraining programs, licensing exams
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and optimize reactor cores in labs or officesOperate and monitor reactors in control rooms
Industry UsageDesign and safety analysis roles in nuclear plantsDay-to-day operation and safety management of reactors

The Nuclear Reactor Core Engineer focuses on designing, analyzing, and improving reactor cores, requiring engineering expertise and safety certifications. In contrast, the Nuclear Reactor Operator manages the real-time operation and safety of reactors, primarily working in control rooms. Both roles are essential in nuclear power plants but differ in responsibilities, work environment, and required credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Reactor Core Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Reactor Core Engineer, you need a solid background in nuclear engineering, reactor physics, and thermodynamics, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in nuclear or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation software (such as MCNP or CASMO), regulatory compliance systems, and relevant safety certifications (like Professional Engineer licensure) is essential. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication skills set outstanding engineers apart, especially when collaborating on interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring reactor safety, regulatory compliance, and optimal core performance in a highly regulated and technically demanding environment.
Nuclear Reactor Engineer (RXE)

Nuclear Reactor Engineer (RXE)

Holtec International

Covert, MI • On-site

$94K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Holtec International rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Position: Nuclear Reactor Engineer (RXE) Location: Palisades Energy Holtec Palisades seeks qualified applicants for the position of Nuclear Reactor Engineer (RXE) in its Engineering department based at Palisades Nuclear Power Plant in Covert, MI. Palisades is positioned to become the first nuclear power plant in the United States to restart after previously entering the early stages of decommissioning. By joining our team, you will be part of a unique and historic undertaking for the nuclear industry and the nation! About the position The position involves providing technical leadership for reactor core performance and monitoring within Holtec Palisades. The role focuses on advocating for nuclear fuel reliability, managing fuel and special nuclear material accountability, and offering technical assistance to operations to ensure conservative reactivity management and decision-making. The position may be filled at various engineering levels (I, II, III, or Sr) based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate. Responsibilities
  • Manages core performance monitoring and trending, fuel management and configuration control, and the Special Nuclear Material and Accountability program.
  • Evaluates core component lifetime and provides replacement instructions.
  • Supports training of Operations and Engineering on fuel and core related topics.
  • Serves as the site fuel reliability monitor and champions the fuel reliability program.
  • Supports Operations for maneuvers/core analysis/operating limits considerations.
  • Serves as a subject matter expert for the reactor core and associated areas.
  • Manages reactor core-related surveillances and startup testing.
  • Monitors maintenance and revision to Reactor Engineering procedures.
  • Supports dry fuel storage-related activities and irradiated core component disposal.
  • Implements fuel storage and handling requirements.
  • Supports core reload design analysis and batch reload implementation.
Requirements
  • B.S. Degree in Nuclear Engineering or a closely related scientific discipline.
  • Good to excellent communication skills.
  • Experience/proficiency in PC use and applications.
Desired Licenses/Certificates
  • SRO license or certification on a PWR or BWR.
  • Professional Engineering license.
Holtec Palisades offers its employees a robust rewards package which includes: a competitive salary; a broad benefits package including medical/RX, dental, vision, life, disability, hospitalization, and other valuable voluntary options; time-off programs; 401(k) with employer match; professional and career development opportunities; and an unmatched culture focused on client service, quality, and tireless pursuit of excellence in all we do. As a technology trailblazer and a prominent innovator in clean energy (nuclear and solar) industry, Holtec strives to foster a meritocratic work environment conducive to continuous learning and professional growth of its associates. Holtec is an equal opportunity employer with a long-standing commitment to social equity and environmental justice. The company gives special preference to disabled veterans as a part of its recruitment policy. Detailed information on the Company can be obtained by consulting our website: holtecinternational.com.

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