1

Nuclear Reactor Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer

Lineville, AL

$86K - $103K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Louisville, AL

$109K - $131K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hartford, AL

$88K - $106K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Dothan, AL

$89K - $107K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Harvest, AL

$89K - $107K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Leighton, AL

$88K - $105K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Mount Vernon, AL

$105K - $126K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Jemison, AL

$91K - $109K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Riverside, AL

$83K - $100K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Franklin, AL

$88K - $106K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Bridgeport, AL

$88K - $105K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Marion, AL

$52K - $63K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Pinckard, AL

$90K - $108K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Alexandria, AL

$89K - $107K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Robertsdale, AL

$78K - $93K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Kinsey, AL

$89K - $107K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

$94K - $113K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

Nuclear Engineer

Roanoke, AL

$88K - $105K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Reactor information

See Alabama salary details

$17

$47

$69

How much do nuclear reactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear reactor in Alabama is $47.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.53 and $56.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nuclear reactor operator?

Nuclear reactor operators are professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring nuclear reactors in power plants, research facilities, or naval vessels. They ensure that reactors operate safely and efficiently by adjusting controls, monitoring instruments, and following strict safety protocols. Their duties include starting and stopping reactors, responding to abnormalities, conducting inspections, and coordinating with other plant personnel. Operators are required to undergo extensive training and must be licensed by the appropriate regulatory authorities. Their work is critical for maintaining both energy production and public safety.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Reactor Operator, you need a strong understanding of physics, engineering principles, and safety protocols, typically supported by a relevant technical degree and completion of rigorous operator licensing. Familiarity with reactor control systems, simulation software, and regulatory compliance tools is essential. Attention to detail, calm decision-making, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for handling complex and high-pressure situations. These competencies are critical for ensuring operational safety, regulatory compliance, and the reliable generation of nuclear power.

What are some of the key challenges faced by nuclear reactor operators during routine operations?

Nuclear reactor operators often face the challenge of maintaining high levels of concentration and attention to detail during long shifts, as the safety and efficiency of the plant depend on their vigilance. They must quickly and accurately respond to abnormal readings or alarms, which requires a deep understanding of reactor systems and procedures. Additionally, operators regularly collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams to troubleshoot issues and ensure compliance with strict regulatory standards, making effective communication and teamwork essential.

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

AspectNuclear ReactorNuclear Power Plant Operator
RoleComponent of a power plant that contains the nuclear reactor core and facilitates nuclear reactionsPerforms operational tasks to control and monitor the nuclear reactor and plant systems
CredentialsTypically requires nuclear engineering or related certifications, safety trainingRequires reactor operator licensing, safety certifications, and technical training
Work EnvironmentInside the reactor core or containment area, highly controlled and safety-focusedControl room and plant facilities, monitoring and adjusting reactor operations
Industry UsagePart of a nuclear power plant, essential for energy generationOperates and manages the reactor's functions within the plant

In summary, a nuclear reactor is the core component where nuclear reactions occur, while a nuclear power plant operator manages and controls the reactor's operation within the plant. Both roles require specialized training and safety certifications, but they focus on different aspects of nuclear power generation.

How to get a job at a nuclear reactor?

To work at a nuclear reactor, candidates typically need a relevant degree in nuclear engineering, physics, or a related field, along with specialized training and certifications such as a Nuclear Regulatory Commission license. Experience in safety procedures, technical skills, and understanding of reactor operations are also essential. Job opportunities are often available through utility companies, government agencies, or nuclear power plant operators, with strict background checks and adherence to safety standards required.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Reactor jobs in Alabama?

For Nuclear Reactor jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Reactor job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,857 per year, or $47 per hour.

Assistant / Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University

Normal, AL • On-site

$75K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Salary: $75,100.00 - $88,075.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300604
Department: Mechanical and Civil Engineering & Construction Management
Opening Date: 05/09/2025
Description
Summary:
The Department of Mechanical & Civil Engineering and Construction Management at Alabama A&M University invites applications for a tenure-track or tenured faculty position in Mechanical Engineering. The rank and tenure status are negotiable based on qualifications and experience.
We seek a dynamic and highly qualified candidate with expertise in nuclear engineering, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), gas turbine systems, material sciences and thermal-fluid sciences. The ideal candidate will be capable of teaching a wide range of courses including Introduction to Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Reactor Engineering I & II, Gas Turbines, Material Sciences and CFD. A specialization in nuclear systems is particularly desirable.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Teach undergraduate and graduate-level Mechanical Engineering courses, including but not limited to:
    1. Introduction to Nuclear Engineering
    2. Nuclear Reactor Engineering I & II
    3. Gas Turbine Systems
    4. Computational Fluid Dynamics
    5. Thermal Sciences and related courses
  • Develop and enhance mechanical engineering laboratories.
  • Supervise senior design and graduate projects.
  • Engage in scholarly research and seek extramural funding.
  • Advise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Contribute to department, college, university, and professional service

Typical Qualifications
Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.):
  • Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching, research, and service.
  • Ability to teach across the Mechanical Engineering curriculum with a strong emphasis on nuclear engineering, CFD, gas turbines, material sciences and thermal sciences.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Expertise and teaching experience in nuclear reactor systems.
  • Experience in securing external research funding.
  • Proven ability to develop and teach laboratory-based courses.
  • Background in materials science, manufacturing, or propulsion is a plus.

Supplemental Information
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • Nuclear Reactor Engineering
    • Computational Fluid Dynamics
    • Gas Turbine Systems
    • Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Solid Mechanics
    • Materials Science and Manufacturing
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01
Do you have Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have demonstrated potential for excellence in teaching, research, and service?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have the ability to teach across the Mechanical Engineering curriculum with a strong emphasis on nuclear engineering, CFD, gas turbines, material sciences and thermal sciences?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question