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Nuclear Reactor Core Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Protingent

Senior Safety Analysis Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$69 - $115/hr

Knowledgeable of nuclear reactor core physics such as neutron transport theory and reactivity ... D. in nuclear engineering, or other relevant engineering degree, with a desired of 10 years of ...

Protingent

Welding Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$65 - $85/hr

Welding Engineer Position Description: Protingent Staffing has an exciting contract Welding ... Develop and qualify welding techniques for nuclear reactor core internals for the reactor sodium ...

Radiant

Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

The company's first reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor that can be ... About the Role Radiant is a seeking a Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics responsible for designing and ...

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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.
Research Engineer

Research Engineer

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 532 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194222EP
Internal Recruitment
No
Working Title
Research Engineer
Anticipated Hiring Range
Commensurate with Education and Experience
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Job Location
Raleigh, NC
Department
Nuclear Engineering
About the Department
The Department of Nuclear Engineering offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Nuclear Engineering. We are the only nuclear engineering program in the state of North Carolina and one of the premier departments in the southeast United States. Our purpose is to enhance, promote, and utilize the PULSTAR research reactor and associated facilities in an exemplary manner, leading to national recognition as a premier 1-MW Nuclear Reactor Program dedicated to research, teaching, and extension. The PULSTAR reactor facility is available for use by research faculty and staff within the UNC system or at other academic institutions, and by governmental agencies and industries in the State of North Carolina and the Nation.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.
What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
  • Reactor Operations and Training: Receive comprehensive training to obtain licensure as a Senior Reactor Operator from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
  • System Design and Maintenance: Participate in the design, installation, testing, operation, and maintenance of reactor plant and experimental facility systems.
  • Procedure and Protocol Development: Develop detailed specifications for reactor and experiment system components, including design requirements and operational and maintenance procedures. Create and implement laboratory safety and radiation protection procedures and protocols to support reactor research.
  • Computational Modeling and Simulation: Formulate and execute reactor core and system simulations using high-performance computing (HPC) resources to ensure safe reactor operation.
  • Research and Development: Design experimental facilities and conduct complex research utilizing computational resources. Formulate research methodologies and propose enhancements to improve research quality.
  • Documentation and Publication: Contribute to project documentation and reporting, author scholarly papers, and support the development of proposals for new projects.
  • Nuclear System Analysis: Perform nuclear system simulations, experimental facility design, and nuclear data generation to support the safe operation of the PULSTAR nuclear research reactor. Utilize HPC resources to run atomistic simulation, nuclear data generation, and radiation transport codes.

Other Responsibilities
  • Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • For the Research Engineer position relevant Ph.D degree in Nuclear Engineering. Greater than or equal to 10 years of experience with each of the following activities:
    • Utilization of reactor facility including administration of a service center.
    • Providing technical input for generating proposals for academic and corporate users.
    • Design and installation of experimental apparatus, and performing testing and generating reports.

Other Required Qualifications
  • Understand technical operating, service or repair manuals.
  • Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
  • Experience in the following areas: Nuclear reactor analyses, nuclear reactor benchmarks; Experimental nuclear facility design, nuclear data evaluation and validation, and modeling using molecular methods. Strong capabilities in using MCNP, Serpent, NJOY, OpenFoam, VASP, and PHONON codes. Strong programming skills using languages such as Fortran and Python, and utilities such as MATLAB.
  • Strong capabilities in using Multiphysics simulation codes.

Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with tenets and implementation of safety and security culture and cyber-security mitigations at a research reactor facility desirable. Experience with electronic systems including analog instrumentation, industrial I&C, LV power, automation, and/or radiation detection is desirable. Knowledge of analytical chemistry, chemical safety and hygiene, and/or radiochemistry are encouraged.
  • Analog electrical instruments
  • Industrial I&C and automation
  • LV power
  • Radiation detection
  • Radiation protection and shielding
  • Analytical chemistry
  • Radiochemistry
  • Chemical safety and hygiene
  • Familiarity with design and operation of high and very-high vacuum systems

Required License(s) or Certification(s)
  • N/A

Valid NC Driver's License required
No
Commercial Driver's License required
No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
09/11/2025
Anticipated Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include as attachments a resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references.
Position Details
Position Number
00108861
Position Type
EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.0
Appointment
12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Mandatory - Fire/Explosions, Mandatory - Medical Emergencies, Mandatory - Hazardous Material Incidents, Mandatory - Transportation Accidents, Mandatory - Evacuations/Natural Hazards, Mandatory - Utilities/Infrastructure Failure, Mandatory - Threats of Violence/Terrorism/Interpersonal Emergencies
Department ID
141201 - Nuclear Reactor Program
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

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North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

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