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Nuclear Reactor Design Engineer information

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How much do nuclear reactor design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear reactor design engineer in Burr Ridge, IL is $83.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81.59 and $92.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a nuclear reactor design engineer do?

A Nuclear Reactor Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and improving nuclear reactors and their components to ensure efficiency, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards. They work on developing reactor systems, fuel cycles, cooling systems, and safety protocols. Their work involves using advanced computer modeling, conducting simulations, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to address technical challenges in nuclear power generation. These engineers play a crucial role in advancing nuclear technology and supporting the safe operation of nuclear facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear reactor design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Reactor Design Engineer, you need a solid background in nuclear engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation software (such as MCNP or RELAP), CAD systems, and regulatory codes is essential. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and address complex design challenges. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant reactor designs in a highly technical and safety-critical environment.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear reactor design engineers when working on new reactor projects?

Nuclear Reactor Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with strict safety regulations, integrating cutting-edge technology within established frameworks, and managing interdisciplinary coordination with teams like structural, thermal, and safety engineers. Balancing innovation with regulatory requirements can be demanding, as every design decision must consider long-term reliability and public safety. Additionally, adapting designs to meet evolving industry standards and addressing feedback from regulatory bodies are integral parts of the role.

What is the difference between Nuclear Reactor Design Engineer vs Nuclear Safety Engineer?

AspectNuclear Reactor Design EngineerNuclear Safety Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing nuclear reactor systems and componentsEnsuring safety protocols and risk assessments for nuclear facilities
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, possibly PE license, specialized training in reactor designEngineering or science degree, certifications in safety standards, risk management
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, nuclear power plantsRegulatory agencies, nuclear plants, safety analysis labs
Industry UsageUsed during reactor development and construction phasesUsed in safety evaluations, compliance, and incident prevention

While both roles require engineering expertise and knowledge of nuclear systems, Nuclear Reactor Design Engineers focus on creating and improving reactor designs, whereas Nuclear Safety Engineers prioritize safety protocols and risk mitigation to ensure safe operation of nuclear facilities.

How much do nuclear reactor design engineers make?

Nuclear reactor design engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

How much does a nuclear reactor design engineer make?

A nuclear reactor design engineer typically earns between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. The role often requires knowledge of nuclear physics, reactor systems, and safety regulations.

What cities near Burr Ridge, IL are hiring for Nuclear Reactor Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Burr Ridge, IL with the most Nuclear Reactor Design Engineer job openings:

Nuclear Reactor Design Engineer jobs near you

Radiological Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear (Summer 2027)

Chicago, IL • On-site

Sargent Lundy
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Sargent Lundyexternal

$62K - $90K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description

This position has a target start date of Summer 2027.


We offer you a variety of interesting and challenging opportunities in nuclear/radiological engineering.


You will work with multi-disciplineengineering project teams engaged in the design and engineeringof upgrades and modifications to existing nuclear power plants in the following areas:



  • Radiological dose calculations

  • Shielding design calculations

  • Radiation source term calculations


In addition, you will:



  • Work on both domestic and international nuclear power plant projects

  • Potential travel to support projects


Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.



  • A Bachelor's or Master's of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering

    • A Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program is preferred



  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

  • Strong problem solving skills

  • Proficiency with MS Office applications

  • Experience with some of the following computer programs (preferred):

    • MCNP

    • RADTRAD

    • MicroShield

    • ORIGEN

    • ARCON96




AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:



  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.

  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.

  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.

  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.


Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.


Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance



  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision

  • Life & Accident Insurance

  • Disability Coverage

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • Back-Up Daycare

  • FSA & HSA



  • 401(k)

  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account

  • Merit Scholarship Program

  • Employee Discount Program

  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program

  • Tuition Assistance

  • First Professional Licensure Bonus

  • Employee Referral Bonus



  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)

  • Paid Vacation

  • Paid Holidays

  • Paid Parental Leave

  • Paid Bereavement Leave

  • Flexible Work Arrangements


Compensation Range
$62,998 - $90,586
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
About This Business Unit

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we’ve been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!


Equal Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media

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