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Nuclear Reactor Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Last Energy seeks an experienced Radiological Engineer to support the safety and licensing analysis for the PWR-20 micro nuclear reactor. This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering ...

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Last Energy seeks an experienced Radiological Engineer to support the safety and licensing analysis for the PWR-20 micro nuclear reactor. This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering ...

Nuclear Engineer - Radiological

Austin, TX

$97K - $117K/yr

Last Energy seeks an experienced Radiological Engineer to support the safety and licensing analysis for the PWR-20 micro nuclear reactor. This person will work closely with the nuclear engineering ...

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Nuclear Reactor Engineer information

See salary details

$26K

$105.6K

$150K

How much do nuclear reactor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Reactor Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 11% As Needed, 32% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,594 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Senior Licensing Engineer for New Reactor Projects and Strategy

X Energy LLC

Rockville, MD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company career page, www.x-energy.com/careers/. We will never ask you to provide payment information as part of the recruiting process. If anyone claiming to represent X-energy directs you in a manner otherwise, please contact us at www.x-energy.com/contact-us.

Job Description

Join X-energy's growing reactor licensing team focused on jumpstarting new small modular reactor licensing projects and setting strategic licensing approaches for first-of-a-kind advanced reactor deployment. Licensing Engineers at X-energy lead new application preparation, drive licensing strategy, manage regulatory engagement with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and coordinate the complex business, licensing, and technical activities necessary to further the deployment of X-energy reactors globally.
Licensing Engineers are engaged in environmental licensing, nuclear safety, nuclear security, emergency planning, safeguards, and regulatory compliance for X-energy's advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor technology. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to first-of-a-kind advanced reactor projects that define industry-best licensing practices.


Job Profile Tasks/Responsibilities

Licensing Engineers are responsible for activities including, but not limited to, the following:

  • Supporting licensing activities associated with reactor certifications, permits, and licenses, including the preparation of regulatory engagement plans, applications, white papers, technical reports, and topical reports
  • Ensuring compliance with NRC regulations and guidance
  • Participating in and presenting at public meetings, regulatory audits, and business proposals
  • Researching and developing strategic proposals to address novel technical and licensing challenges
  • Developing internal guidance, processes, and templates to improve and implement licensing strategies
  • Working as part of a team to deliver timely and high-quality licensing products that effectively communicate complex technical and regulatory positions
  • Supporting planning and executing the X-energy business and licensing strategy
  • Participating in nuclear industry working groups

Levels IV - VI:

  • Leading the execution of core tasks and responsibilities without close supervision
  • Teaching and mentoring more junior team members
  • Identifying and implementing, as appropriate, industry and academic trends, breakthroughs, and best practices

Job Profile Minimum Qualifications

  • All Levels: Bachelor's degree in engineering (e.g., mechanical, nuclear, chemical, or electrical engineering), science (e.g., environmental science, physics, or chemistry), or other related area.
  • Level IV: Typically, ten years of relevant technical or licensing experience
    • Direct experience with NRC or DOE reactor projects and regulatory processes
    • Understanding of nuclear reactor design and operation
    • Project management experience, including developing and maintaining schedules; meeting deadlines; formulating budgets; and leading teams
  • Level V: Typically, fifteen years of relevant technical or licensing experience
    • Direct experience with NRC or DOE reactor projects and regulatory processes
    • Understanding of nuclear reactor design and operation
    • Project management experience, including developing and maintaining schedules; meeting deadlines; formulating budgets; and leading teams
  • Level VI: Typically, twenty years of relevant technical or licensing experience
    • Direct experience with NRC or DOE reactor projects and regulatory processes
    • Understanding of nuclear reactor design and operation
    • Project management experience, including developing and maintaining schedules; meeting deadlines; formulating budgets; and leading teams

Preferred Skills

Candidates for this role would ideally have knowledge or experience in one or more of the following areas, commensurate with their educational and professional background:

  • Experience with U.S. NRC construction permit and operating license application preparation and/or reviews
  • Knowledge of high-temperature gas reactor technologies and/or first-of-a-kind nuclear technologies
  • Knowledge of small modular reactor technical and licensing considerations
  • Knowledge of U.S. NRC and/or U.S. DOE regulatory requirements for reactor licensing
  • Knowledge of international nuclear reactor licensing frameworks
  • Experience with front-end loading project planning
  • Ability to analyze and interpret regulatory requirements, legislation, and policy documents

Compensation

As required by Maryland and other applicable state law, X Energy, LLC (X-energy) lists the expected compensation range for a publicly advertised job opportunity based upon the job requirements (e.g. education/training, experience, skill sets, etc.). Individual candidates who meet the job requirements for the posted position will be offered a salary within this range based on their respective levels of education/training, experience, and other qualifications unique to them. Salary ranges may vary based on the specific office location and region referenced in the posting to take into consideration differences in cost of living and may not be reflective of all regions. Please note that compensation ranges listed for US job postings reflect base salary only and do not include benefits or other incentives.

A reasonable estimate for this position at the level of experience required is:

Level IV: $125,400-$209,000 / Level V: $139,950-$233,250 / Level VI: $153,750-$256,250

Position Job Classification

Full time - Exempt

Benefits

X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401K plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental /Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports the continuing education of our employees.

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

X Energy, LLC participates in E-Verify. Please visit the links below for more information about E-Verify and the protection of your Right to Work.

Right To Work Link: If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away (e-verify.gov)

E-Verify Participation Link: E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish