1

Nuclear Reactor Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

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.
Reactor Operator - License Class (Duane Arnold)

Reactor Operator - License Class (Duane Arnold)

NextEra Energy

IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


NextEra Energy rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 50 rated energy and utility


Job description

Requisition ID: 93954
NextEra Energy Resources is one of America's largest wholesale electricity generators, harnessing diverse energy sources to power progress. We deliver tailored energy solutions that fuel economic growth, strengthen communities, and help customers achieve their energy goals. Ready to make a lasting impact? Take the next step in your career with us!
Position Specific Description
NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Inc. is seeking a Reactor Operator for our Duane Arnold Energy Center. This single unit BWR nuclear facility is located just outside Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Licensing Classes are scheduled for August 2026 and early 2027 (onsite date ASAP). Successful candidates will have superior execution skills, be detail-oriented and have technical aptitude in electronic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems.
While employed in this position, the primary responsibility will be familiarization of the Duane Arnold Energy Center (DAEC) in preparation for the potential restart of DAEC. During this time, employees selected for this position will also prepare for License Class and perform duties as assigned
Job Overview
The Reactor Operator (RO) candidate is required to make satisfactory progress in preparation for passing the NRC RO exam, pass the NRC RO exam and complete the program to become a Reactor Operator.
This position requires participation and completion of the License Class, a preparatory program for the job of Reactor Operator. In order to participate in License Class, six months of commercial nuclear experience is required. During this time, employees selected for this position will also prepare for License Class and perform duties as assigned.
Employees in this position must successfully complete the entire program. Individuals partake in several training programs including the Reactor Operator (RO) training program, Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) RO license exam, The position requires employees to perform reactor operating duties, reactor engineering tasks, direction to field operators and assigned maintenance duties. Other duties as assigned including ensuring safe and efficient operation of the nuclear plant while maintaining critical control systems critical for plant operation.
Job Duties & Responsibilities
  • Completes the site Reactor Operator (RO) License
  • Develops planning, organizing, and directing skills
  • Practices controlling shift operations
  • Develops up-to-date knowledge of plant operating conditions and limitations established by technical specifications and the plant operating license
  • Practices performing as a reactor operator
  • Progresses in knowledge to pass the NRC RO exam and program completion
  • Completes and passes any other training course, instruction, event, simulation, and on-the-job performance
  • Support qualification of all licensed and non-licensed operators
  • Successfully completed a physical exam that meets ANSI standard; ANS. 3.4, ANSI N546-1976 (licensed operator physical)
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or the equivalent
  • Pass the Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) test
  • Candidates for an RO license shall have one of the following qualifications:
    • Six months as a qualified non-licensed operator at the Nuclear facility identified
    • Twelve months as a qualified non-licensed operator at a comparable facility or eighteen months at a non-comparable facility
    • Six months as a licensed operator at a comparable facility or twelve months at a non-comparable facility
    • Eighteen months experience in a position equivalent to a reactor operator at a military reactor
    • Twenty-seven months experience at a non-nuclear facility

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree

Special Requirements
Nuclear Specific Requirements:
  • ACAD 10-001 (Guidelines for Initial Training and Qualification of Licensed Operators) apply to this position
  • Rotating shift work
  • Successful completion of a Licensed Operator Physical
  • Ability to obtain and maintain unescorted Nuclear Access, including participation in Fitness for Duty Program
  • Condition of employment:
    • Successful completion of the RO license class and attainment of NRC RO license

NextEra Energy offers a wide range of benefits to support our employees and their eligible family members. Click here to learn more.
Employee Group: Non Exempt
Employee Type: Full Time
Job Category: Operations
Organization: NextEra Energy Duane Arnold, LLC
Relocation Provided: Yes, if applicable
NextEra Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, color, age, national origin, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetics, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis prohibited by law.
NextEra Energy provides reasonable accommodation in its application and selection process for qualified individuals, including accommodations related to compliance with conditional job offer requirements, consistent with federal, state, and local laws. Supporting medical or religious documentation will be required where applicable and permitted by applicable law. To request a reasonable accommodation, please send an e-mail to recruiting-coordinator.sharedmailbox@nexteraenergy.com, providing your name, telephone number and the best time for us to reach you.
NextEra Energy will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
NextEra Energy does not accept any unsolicited resumes or referrals from any third-party recruiting firms or agencies. Please see our policy for more information.
#LI-CC2

What NextEra Energy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom