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Nuclear Reactor Operator information

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$832

$1.6K

$1.7K

How much do nuclear reactor operator jobs pay per month?

As of Sep 1, 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 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 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.

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 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.

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 that requires specialized training and licensing.
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Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Reactor Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% 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.

Maintenance Engineer at the High Flux Isotope Reactor

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

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 16922 

Overview:

We are seeking a Maintenance Engineer for the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) who will be responsible for maintaining the HFIR equipment and facilities to ensure safe, reliable, predictable, and efficient operations. This scope includes the HFIR maintenance program and processes; implementation of corrective, predictive, preventative, and modification work activities; work scheduling; and outage management. HFIR Maintenance Engineers work closely with members of the HFIR Beamline Operations Section, Science staff, Instrument Engineers, Reactor Operations personnel, and Melton Valley Complex Facility Supervisors.

This position resides in the Maintenance Engineering Group in the HFIR Maintenance Section, Research Reactors Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

Task Leading:

  • Provides in-field oversight and technical direction.
  • Coordinates with equipment owners, craft supervisors, and facility management to ensure work is performed safely and efficiently.
  • Ensures compliance with UT Battelle policies related to environmental protection, safety, ALARA, and quality assurance.

Planning, Coordination, and Scheduling:

  • Develops written work instructions using human performance principles for repetitive and corrective maintenance, as well as upgrade / modification activities.
  • Collaborates with Systems Engineering, Quality Assurance, and Procurement to identify and obtain necessary materials.
  • Administers the Computerized Maintenance Management System for assigned areas (mechanical, electrical, facilities), including processing work orders, assigning tasks, and managing individual activities.
  • Analyzes maintenance practices, equipment failures, and operating performance; prepares reports as assigned.

Basic Qualifications:

  • A BS degree in electrical engineering, applied science, or a related discipline, along with 5 or more years of relevant experience. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
  • In-depth knowledge of electrical distribution and utilization equipment.
  • Familiarity with electrical standards such as the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70E, UL White Book, etc.
  • Demonstrated experience diagnosing electrical equipment issues and developing formal work package instructions and documentation for repairs.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • A BS degree and a minimum of 10 years of relevant nuclear experience.
  • Current or previous certification as an ICC Commercial Electrical Inspector (E2) or an IAEI Certified Electrical Inspector.
  • Experience working in a nuclear facility in the electrical or instrumentation and control field.
  • Familiarity with maintenance activities in a nuclear reactor operating environment.
  • Knowledge of HFIR systems and facility operations.
  • Experience in construction management and project oversight.
  • Experience with predictive maintenance techniques and equipment reliability programs.

Special Requirements:

  • Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • 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.
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

About 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 this position.

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

#LI-LK1

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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