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Nuclear Reactor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cantos Ventures

Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106.50 - $146.48/hr

Perform various reactor physics calculations (neutronic and transient analyses) to verify proposed ... Bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or equivalent degree from an accredited institution. * 2+ ...

Radiant

Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

The company's first reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor that can be transported anywhere power is needed and run for up to 5 years without refueling. Portable nuclear power ...

Radiant

Senior Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$133K - $184K/yr

The company's first reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor that can be transported anywhere power is needed and run for up to 5 years without refueling. Portable nuclear power ...

Radiant Industries

Senior Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$111K - $152K/yr

The company's first reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor that can be transported anywhere power is needed and run for up to 5 years without refueling. Portable nuclear power ...

General Atomics

Engineer III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

Develops and integrates the control and protection systems of a nuclear reactor including functional design, hardware, sensors, actuators, and control algorithms in compliance with established ...

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Nuclear Reactor information

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$18

$51

$76

How much do nuclear reactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear reactor in California is $51.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.65 and $61.68 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 California?

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

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Reactor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Reactor jobs in California are:

Nuclear Reactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Reactor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,550 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

Reactor Facility Manager

University of California, Irvine

Irvine, CA • On-site

$88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

University Of California Irvine rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Who We Are
Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation's top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UC Irvine has more than 36,000 students and offers 224 degree programs. It's located in one of the world's safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County's second-largest employer, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide.
To learn more about UC Irvine, visit www.uci.edu.
The UC Irvine Department of Chemistry is one of four departments in the School of Physical Sciences. We train thousands of general education students each year in Chemistry fundamentals and provide administrative support to our faculty and research staff, while providing world-class education and training for our student population while pushing the frontiers of knowledge through cutting edge research. The Department of Chemistry is committed to excellence through inclusion and diversity. We welcome, respect, and are strengthened by our diversity as women, men, and people of all gender identities, gender expressions, and sexual orientations. We benefit from our common humanity, as well as our difference in race, ethnicity, age, national origins, socioeconomic backgrounds, abilities, religions, and point of view. The Nuclear Reactor Facility serves an important component in the Department of Chemistry's tripartite mission of teaching, research and service.
Your Role on the Team
The UCI Nuclear Reactor Facility, established in 1968 and operational since 1969, houses a Mark I TRIGA reactor capable of 250 kW steady state operation and pulses up to 1.21 GW. Our facility is primarily used for neutron activation analysis, determining elemental composition of samples non-destructively for up to 74 different elements. We serve educational, commercial, and industrial customers while supporting the university's mission through unique research and analysis methods.
We are seeking an experienced project manager and engineering professional with in-depth understanding of the nuclear field to independently perform the full range of responsibilities in our Nuclear Reactor Facility. This role requires compliance with campus and Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations, broad job knowledge, and the ability to analyze diverse problems and determine effective solutions.
Essential Functions:
The identification of essential functions below is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties that may be assigned to this position, nor does it restrict the duties which may be assigned to this position if such duties reasonably relate to the position.
  • Equipment and Facility Management Operations: Independently responsible to operate, troubleshoot and report on experimental equipment and associated computer systems for the Nuclear Reactor Facility. Review, test, approve, develop, schedule, and assist with experiments in consultation with internal and external personnel, and within the scope of local operating procedures, license requirements, state and federal regulations. Annually review approved experiments for continued validity and relevance. Schedule and operate the gamma irradiator and all other facility equipment. Perform procedures and classification of experiments using the gamma irradiator, reactor, and associated equipment. Develop and program computer software used to predict neutron activation results of samples to be irradiated and analyze the resultant gamma ray spectra generated from an irradiation. Handle hazardous chemicals in building detector systems, performing neutron activation analysis, wet chemistry. Perform experiments related to the quality of the services provided by the reactor facility, such as neutron flux measurements, spectral analysis, and dose rates of the different irradiations possible in the facility. Implement computer programs for microcontrollers and workstations to perform various tasks, ranging from radiation counting, motor control, and security systems. Track and maintain inventories of chemicals, isotopes, and security items in the reactor facility and associated laboratories. Procure typical and atypical supplies for the reactor facility operations and research. Facilitate shipping of federally regulated and restricted materials such as highly radioactive isotopes, for use as tracers in various industrial processes. Identify requirements, obtain quotes, and arrange procurement of equipment from manufacturers for various systems. Verify and report on scope of work as well as cost and equipment verification for proposed work in grant applications in support of the reactor facility and research conducted within. Independently works on full scope of special projects at the reactor facility as directed by the Reactor Oversight Committee and in support of the strategic plan of the reactor facility. 40%
  • Maintenance: Maintain and improve the general condition of the reactor facility in order to better perform research and maintenance activities. Create and assess procedures and equipment. Plan and perform periodic and reactive maintenance tasks. Perform corrective maintenance and troubleshooting on reactor core systems and support systems, such as control rod drives, conductivity channels, fuel temperature measurement channels, reactor power channels, gamma spectroscopy systems, irradiation facilities, radiation monitoring systems, and the reactor control console. 10%
  • Safety: Perform radiological safety monitoring tasks and training for all activities and in general maintenance of the facility. Check and calibrate radiation monitoring equipment for airborne, portable, and fixed radiation monitors. Develop and perform procedures for calibration and periodic maintenance on the radiation monitoring and safety systems of the reactor facility, such as the continuous air monitors, area radiation monitors, environmental dosimetry, and monthly and quarterly items. Review and revise the emergency plan, as well as coordinate training exercises and performance of the emergency plan. 10%
  • Supervision/User Training/Outreach: Provide guidance and instruction to facility users on the topics of nuclear related materials and processes used to perform radiation related research. Train and mentor users of the reactor facility and support their experimental work. Educate and train users in the use of facility equipment in order to safely conduct operations and research. Work with faculty to develop and administer relevant courses such as the Reactor Operator Training course, CHEM 133/133L, and CHEM 252, and provide technical support for laboratory courses. Provide instruction to reactor operators and trainees in practical training and preparation for initial federal licensure or upgrades thereof. Perform outreach activities of nuclear information and materials to the general public. Schedule and conduct tours of the facility to promote education in the physical sciences, engineering and nuclear science in particular. 15%
  • General Facility Administration: Create and update documentation for the reactor facility, including startups, shutdowns, irradiation facility usage, experiment performance, support systems, emergency planning, qualifications, examinations, schematics and diagrams, and maintenance. Maintain website for the reactor facility in order to promote outreach and information sharing with the public and potential users. Perform billing and pricing of services and goods provided by the facility to on-campus and external customers. Advise Facility Oversight Committee on billing strategy and industry standards of pricing and assessment of rates. Process, complete, and execute policies and procedures with sales and services agreements. Coordinate and collaborate with Physical Sciences Dean's Office finance and campus Accounting for facility financial operational needs. Partner with and support the research reactor community by exchanging expertise and equipment for the function and betterment of the facility. Work with outside vendors to provide maintenance and surveillance activities on certain equipment, such as the five-ton crane and ventilation systems, in the reactor facility. Participate in conferences related to the operation and research performed at the reactor facility worldwide. Develop, implement, and maintain a general safety program for the reactor facility as part of the Safety on Site program of EH&S, attending periodic meetings and training events related to workspace safety, chemical hygiene, and others. Serve on the radiation safety committee, meeting quarterly to discuss radiation safety related items on campus, approve new users of radioactive materials, and renew authorizations of radioactive materials use. Serve as liaison with facilities management to ensure availability and access to proper services (power, water, etc.). 15%
  • Compliance: Ensure users adhere to administrative rules, policies, and operating procedures for work conducted in the facility and operations of the reactor. Bring concerns about conduct to the attention of the Facility Oversight Committee. Maintain regulatory compliance of the facility with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission through inspections, documentation, and reporting of abnormal or unusual occurrences related to the reactor facility. Enforce compliance with federal and campus regulations from users and visitors of the facility by bringing concerns about conduct to the attention of the Facility Oversight Committee for possible sanctions or remediation. Facilitate licensing (and termination of licenses) for personnel as reactor operators or senior reactor operators by training, examination (practical and written), executing background checks, and communicating with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Prepare, review, and submit for approval individuals for the supervision and operation of the reactor. Operate a radiation safety program for the reactor facility in compliance with radiation safety protocols and regulations established by EH&S, the Radiation Safety Committee, the Reactor Operations Committee, California's Department of Public Health, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Create, maintain, and review facility records, including fuel inventory, personnel radiation exposure, and committee meetings, in order to comply with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as insurance company requirements. Prepare and submit proposed changes to the facility procedures and technical specifications of the federal license of the facility. Schedule, coordinate, develop and execute drills for compliance with Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations on emergency preparedness and planning. Prepare annual reports on the operations, maintenance, research, waste generation, procedures, facility, environmental and personnel monitoring for the Department of Energy, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and the on campus Reactor Operations Committee. Liaison with outside entities: Work with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to maintain compliance with federal regulations for the operation, maintenance, and improvements of all aspects of the reactor facility. Coordinate and schedule meetings for the Reactor Oversight Committee (Chemistry Department) and Reactor Operations Committee (campus-wide) in order to provide university oversight for the reactor facility. Facilitate the Reactor Operations Committee, which is mandated by the facility's federal license to review and audit facility operations to assure that the facility is operated in a manner consistent with public safety and within the terms of the license. Provide regular updates to members of the Reactor Oversight Committee about the reactor facility on different matters, such as strategic planning, security concerns, financial status, and facility utilization. Facilitate strategic planning for the reactor facility in order to improve the operating status, research impact, and utilization in coordination with the strategic pillars of the university. 10%

Total Effort: 100%
What It Takes to be Successful
Required:
  • Theoretical and working knowledge of radiation and radioactivity, including appropriate safety procedures.
  • Knowledge of theory and practical aspects of laboratory instrumentation; troubleshooting approaches; normal maintenance and surveillance procedures for equipment; start-up, shut-down, and safety procedures; knowledge of typical analog and digital instrument requirements.
  • Ability to assess equipment malfunctions and expertise required for repair.
  • Strong analytical and judgment skills to independently conduct analyses and develop appropriate recommendations.
  • Excellent written and oral communication and presentation skills.
  • Ability to interact, train, and work successfully with a variety of individuals at different skill levels.
  • Ability to work in a collaborative manner; identify challenges and barriers and recommend resolutions.
  • Ability to lead and influence others.
  • Organizational skills to facilitate the use of many different pieces of equipment by different individuals.
  • Thorough knowledge and experience with engineering principles and methods to independently perform the full range of engineering professional design work.
  • Thorough knowledge necessary to apply principles, practices and procedures in the completion of assignments.
  • Demonstrated organizational and decision-making abilities to prioritize competing work assignments in order to meet deadlines and adherence to quality standards.
  • Understanding of local, state and federal nuclear regulations.
  • NRC Senior Reactor Operator license
  • A minimum of 5 years of experienceproject or facility management

Preferred:
  • A minimum of 5 years of experiencein nuclear industry

Total Rewards
In addition to the salary range listed below, we offer a wealth of benefits to make working at UCI even more rewarding. These benefits may include medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and access to a number of discounts and perks. Please utilize the links listed here to learn more about our compensation practices and benefits.

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