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Nuclear Reactor Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer

Puryear, TN

$78K - $94K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lakeland, TN

$86K - $103K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Niota, TN

$85K - $102K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Plainview, TN

$82K - $98K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lewisburg, TN

$90K - $108K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Riceville, TN

$79K - $95K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Pulaski, TN

$97K - $116K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Millersville, TN

$93K - $111K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

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Nuclear Reactor Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$832

$1.6K

$1.7K

How much do nuclear reactor operator jobs pay per month?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear reactor operator in Tennessee is $1,609.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,591.67 and $1,625.00 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main challenges nuclear reactor operators face during shift operations, and how can they effectively manage them?

Nuclear Reactor Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining constant vigilance, responding quickly to abnormal conditions, and adhering strictly to safety protocols. These professionals work in highly regulated environments, typically as part of a tight-knit control room team, where clear communication and collaboration are essential. Managing these challenges requires a strong focus on detail, ongoing training, and the ability to remain calm under pressure, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the reactor at all times.

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

AspectNuclear Reactor OperatorNuclear Power Plant Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a license, training, and certification specific to reactor operationRequires technical training and certifications, often in maintenance or systems operation
Work EnvironmentOperate and monitor nuclear reactors in power plantsMaintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment in nuclear facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in nuclear power plants, regulatory agenciesIn nuclear power plants, maintenance, and support roles

While both roles work in nuclear facilities, Nuclear Reactor Operators focus on controlling and monitoring reactors, whereas Nuclear Power Plant Technicians handle maintenance and technical support. Both require specialized training and certifications, but their daily tasks differ significantly.

What does a nuclear reactor operator do?

As a nuclear reactor operator, your job is to manage the workings of a nuclear power plant under the guidelines of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). In your role as a nuclear reactor operator, you may study new technological advances and techniques as recommended by the NRC, start and stop reactor equipment, test elements of the reactor, monitor recorders and indicators, and respond to alarms. As a power plant operator, you may also be asked to assist with shift supervision, act as part of a station fire brigade, monitor refueling, and operate station communications equipment. Nuclear reactor operators frequently work rotating shifts.

How much do nuclear reactor operators get paid?

Nuclear reactor operators 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 shifts in a highly regulated environment requiring specialized training and licensing.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Reactor Operator, you need a strong background in mathematics, physics, and mechanical systems, typically supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and successful completion of rigorous training programs. Familiarity with control room instrumentation, reactor monitoring software, and possession of a U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) license are essential. Attention to detail, composure under pressure, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of nuclear power plants.

What is a nuclear reactor operator?

Nuclear Reactor Operators are professionals responsible for controlling nuclear reactors in power plants. They monitor and adjust equipment to ensure the safe and efficient production of nuclear energy, following strict safety protocols. Their duties include starting and shutting down reactors, monitoring systems for abnormalities, and responding to emergencies. Operators must be highly trained and licensed, as their work is critical to both energy production and public safety.
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Nuclear Reactor Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs in TN? For Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Reactor Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $19,318 per year, or $9.3 per hour.

Nuclear Reactor Controller

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16831 


Overview:

We are seeking a Nuclear Reactor Controller (Reactor Operator) for the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). Under limited supervision, this position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the HFIR in accordance with procedures and regulations, and maintenance of qualification through training.

A Nuclear Reactor Controller at the HFIR is a combination of all the naval nuclear ratings into one role; it is an appropriate position for all nuclear trained MMs, EMs, and ETs as well as personnel with commercial nuclear operations experience.

This position reports to a HFIR Shift Supervisor and resides in the HFIR Operations Section, Research Reactors Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Obtain and maintain certification as a nuclear reactor controller (reactor operator).
  • Follow good operational practices and requirements as required by DOE Order 422.1, Conduct of Operations.
  • Maintain safe and efficient operation of the HFIR in accordance with procedures and regulations.
  • Monitor plant parameters on a real time basis for assigned stations, analyzing trends and plant conditions.
  • Involves operation of the reactor, the support systems for the reactor, water sampling, disassembly and reassembly of reactor components, refueling and defueling operations, tours and log taking throughout the plant and in the control room.
  • Accomplish field work to support reactor operation, including functions as a waste generator and packager, operation of cranes and mobile equipment, inventorying and stocking materials, and other activities such as radiological decontamination.
  • Function under high stress conditions where immediate decision making is required, and rapid actions taken with seamless coordination with other team members.
  • Abiding by the principles of Safe Conduct of Research including being personally responsible for ensuring safe operations by raising safety concerns, using a questioning attitude, considering hazards for every task, and never stop learning.
  • Additional tasks as assigned by management.
  • Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

  • HS diploma or equivalent
  • A minimum of 3 years of nuclear experience (two years may be nuclear/non-nuclear power plant experience)
  • Must be able to work 12 hour rotating shifts

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Completion of the U.S. Navy Nuclear Power Program

Special Requirements: 

  • Physical Requirements: Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • Export control: This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.
  • L clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

Benefits at ORNL:

We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available for certain positions.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.


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