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Nuclear Reactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Reactor Operator

Atwood, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Champaign, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Cooksville, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Verona, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Braidwood Nuclear Power Sation in Braceville, IL ... These Initial License Trainees (ILT) are for the Braidwood Nuclear Station in Braceville, IL &ndash ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Mahomet, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

... Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Braidwood Nuclear Power Sation in Braceville, IL ... These Initial License Trainees (ILT) are for the Braidwood Nuclear Station in Braceville, IL &ndash ...

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Verona, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Cantrall, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Colfax, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Byron, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Bryon Nuclear Power Station located in Byron, IL ... These Initial License Trainees (ILT) are for the Byron Nuclear Station in Byron, IL &ndash ILT ...

Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural ... They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment ...

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Nuclear Reactor Operator information

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$1.8K

$1.9K

How much do nuclear reactor operator jobs pay per month?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average monthly pay for nuclear reactor operator in the United States is $1,773.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $1,750.00 and $1,791.67 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.

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 Nuclear Reactor Operators?

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 cities are hiring for Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Reactor Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs? The top employers for Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs? For Nuclear Reactor Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Reactor Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 45% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $21,284 per year, or $10.2 per hour.
Senior Reactor Operator

$159K - $191K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Constellation Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 96 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

WHO WE ARE

As the nation's largest producer of clean, carbon-free energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: accelerating the transition to a carbon-free future. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute.
Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things and help fight climate change. Join us to lead the clean energy future.

Total Rewards

Constellation offers a wide range of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, we offer a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including a robust wellness program paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days and much more.

  • During initial license training, Total compensation earnings eligibility ranging from $159,000.00 to $182,000.00 per year (depending on experience and past license status) including a 15% annual incentive bonus, an initial sign-on bonus, $10,000 bonus spread through training milestones, a comprehensive benefits package, and a 401k with employer matching on contributions.
  • After obtaining SRO license, Total compensation earnings eligibility from $191,000.00 per year, including a target 15% annual bonus, License Premium, as well as, extended hours pay at 1.5 times the base salary (expressed on hourly basis) involving mandated operation shift coverage.  

Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be offered to those who meet the conditions in the Company&rsquos policy.

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Braidwood Nuclear Power Sation in Braceville, IL.

These Initial License Trainees (ILT) are for the Braidwood Nuclear Station in Braceville, IL &ndash ILT class beginning May/June, 2026.  

The primary purpose of this position is to train and prepare to perform the duties of an Operations Shift Supervisor who holds a Senior Reactor Operator (SRO)License. Upon completion of training the candidate will be fully licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to supervise the licensed activities of licensed reactor operators in the reactor control room. They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally.

Primary Duties and Accountabilities

  • Attend Initial License Training (ILT) which includes classroom training and examination, along with on-the-job training and evaluation.
  • Successfully complete all phases of training to obtain an SRO license in order to perform the duties of an Operations Shift Supervisor.
  • Perform other job assignments and duties as directed by management or pursuant to company policy, including but not limited to emergency response, departmental coverage, call outs, and support of outage activities in positions outside the department.

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma/GED
Meet or exceed one of the following:
  • 1 year Reactor Operator license at a comparable facility or 1.5 years at a noncomparable facility. Comparable is PWR to PWR or BWR to BWR and noncomparable is PWR to BWR or BWR to PWR.
  • 1.5 years or more in a position equivalent to Reactor Operator (or Supervisor) at a military reactor (i.e., Power Plant Watch Engineer, Engineering Watch Supervisor, Reactor Operator, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Supervisor). Must have 1.5 years after qualification.
  • Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator or Staff member, Supervisor or Manager in work control, operations, engineering, outage management, maintenance, radiation protection, chemistry, or accredited training at a comparable (BWR or PWR) facility. Managerial, staff engineer, or supervisor experience at a noncomparable plant may be credited on a 1.5:1.0 basis (i.e., over 2.25 years required for noncomparable facility), and 3 years required for a nontraditional degree.
  • Current or previous SRO Instructor certification and 4 years experience at a comparable facility or 6 years experience at a non-comparable facility.
  • Maintain minimum access or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

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