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Nuclear Reactor Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Talen Energy

Reactor Engineer

Berwick, PA · On-site

$94K - $113K/yr

Susquehanna Nuclear is a member in good standing with the Utilities Service Alliance. Located less ... Previous experience in Reactor Engineering / Nuclear Engineering preferred Requirements for Support ...

Talen Energy

Reactor Engineer

Berwick, PA · On-site

$94K - $113K/yr

Susquehanna Nuclear is a member in good standing with the Utilities Service Alliance. Located less ... Previous experience in Reactor Engineering / Nuclear Engineering preferred Requirements for Support ...

Talen Energy

Reactor Engineer

Berwick, PA · On-site

Susquehanna Nuclear is a member in good standing with the Utilities Service Alliance. Located less ... Previous experience in Reactor Engineering / Nuclear Engineering preferred Requirements for Support ...

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 ...

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 ...

Orion Talent

Senior Reactor Operator

Braceville, IL · On-site

Engineering Watch Supervisor (EWS) * Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor (PPWS) * Correlating NEC Codes: * N13S - Submarine Nuclear Propulsion Plant Supervisor - Reactor Control * N14S - Submarine ...

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Nuclear Reactor Engineer information

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$26K

$105.6K

$150K

How much do nuclear reactor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear reactor 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 the most common challenges faced by Nuclear Reactor Engineers during routine operations and how are they addressed?

Nuclear Reactor Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining reactor safety, ensuring regulatory compliance, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues. Addressing these challenges typically involves rigorous adherence to safety protocols, continuous monitoring of reactor parameters, and close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams including operators, safety specialists, and maintenance crews. Regular training, drills, and communication are essential in preparing for and effectively managing both routine and emergency situations, helping to ensure safe and efficient plant operations.

Can you make $500,000 as a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear reactor engineers typically earn salaries ranging from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Reaching a $500,000 salary usually requires advanced roles, management positions, or specialized expertise, often supplemented by bonuses or profit sharing. Such high compensation levels are uncommon for standard nuclear engineering roles.

How much do nuclear reactor engineers make?

Nuclear reactor engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $130,000 depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in power plants or research facilities and require specialized knowledge of nuclear systems and safety protocols.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced nuclear reactor engineers with advanced certifications, specialized expertise, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in senior management or consulting positions within the energy industry. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, and typically requires extensive experience and a strong track record in nuclear engineering projects.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Reactor Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering, physics, and mathematics, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software, reactor control systems, and certifications such as the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) or a Professional Engineer (PE) license are often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication skills are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of nuclear reactors, which is critical for both energy production and public safety.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior nuclear reactor engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can earn salaries around $300,000 annually. High compensation is often associated with working in specialized environments, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities within the nuclear industry.

What does a Nuclear Reactor Engineer do?

A Nuclear Reactor Engineer is responsible for designing, operating, and maintaining nuclear reactors to ensure their safe and efficient performance. They analyze reactor systems, oversee safety protocols, and work on improving reactor technology. Their duties often include conducting simulations, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. In addition to technical work, they may also coordinate with other engineers, scientists, and regulatory bodies to support safe nuclear energy production.

What is the difference between Nuclear Reactor Engineer vs Nuclear Power Plant Operator?

AspectNuclear Reactor EngineerNuclear Power Plant Operator
CredentialsEngineering degree, possibly PE licenseHigh school diploma, specialized training
Work EnvironmentDesign, analyze, and develop reactor systemsOperate and monitor reactors on-site
Industry UsageEngineering firms, research, and designPower plants, operational facilities

Nuclear Reactor Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and improving nuclear reactor systems, often working in labs or offices. Nuclear Power Plant Operators are responsible for the day-to-day operation and safety of reactors at power plants. Both roles are essential in the nuclear industry but differ in responsibilities, credentials, and work settings.

More about Nuclear Reactor Engineer jobs
What states have the most Nuclear Reactor Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Reactor Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Reactor Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Reactor Engineer jobs are:
Nuclear Reactor Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Reactor Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,594 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Nuclear Reactor Engineer

Waymaker Resource Group

South Haven, MI • On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

About Waymaker Resource Group, LLC
Since 2014, Waymaker Resource Group, a small-disadvantaged and minority owned business, and its global network of suppliers, vendors, and service providers have been supporting global energy, manufacturing, and federal projects in the areas of project management, equipment reliability, construction projects, program compliance improvement, and staff augmentation.
Waymaker Resource Group is a client's 'single gateway' for large scale maintenance, construction and operational improvement projects. With a focus on long-term operational reliability and technology-led project delivery, Waymaker Resource Group has successfully provided both materials and equipment as well as critical staffing to multiple US federal, commercial and international clientele.
Waymaker Resource Group is unlike any other project management or consulting firm you've worked with. Our focus on establishing a vast network of resources to aid our clients has allowed us to maintain the integrity and vision of every project we partner on.
About the role
  • We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Nuclear Reactor Engineer to join our team at Palisades NPP. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the nuclear reactor by performing core design, analysis, and monitoring activities. This position requires a deep understanding of nuclear physics, reactor kinetics, and thermodynamics, as well as regulatory compliance and industry best practices.

What you'll do
  • Monitor and analyze reactor core performance to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • Support reactor startup, shutdown, and operational activities, including reactivity management and fuel loading.
  • Conduct nuclear core design, fuel cycle planning, and thermal-hydraulic analysis.
  • Evaluate and optimize reactor power distribution, core lifetime, and fuel utilization.
  • Perform safety analyses and support licensing activities in compliance with NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission) and industry regulations.
  • Assist in developing and implementing plant modifications, new reactor technologies, and improvements in reactor safety and efficiency.
  • Respond to abnormal reactor conditions and support troubleshooting of operational issues.
  • Prepare technical reports, operational guidelines, and regulatory documentation.
  • Work collaboratively with operations, maintenance, and regulatory teams to ensure plant safety and compliance.
  • Stay current with advancements in nuclear technology and industry best practices.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification preferred.
  • Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in nuclear engineering and project management.
  • Strong knowledge of nuclear safety regulations, codes, and standards (e.g., NRC, ASME, ANSI).
  • Proven experience in managing complex engineering projects from inception to completion.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
  • Proficiency in project management software and tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).

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