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Nuclear Safety Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$95K - $114K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Oak Harbor, OH

$92K - $110K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Glen Rose, TX

$84K - $101K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Perry, OH · On-site

$81K - $97K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$95K - $114K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Glen Rose, TX

$84K - $101K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Perry, OH

$81K - $97K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$95K - $114K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

Nuclear Spent Fuel Engineer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$95K - $114K/yr

... inspections, documentation, and maintenance support. * Complies with safety policies and procedures to ensure a safe working environment and reinforces nuclear safety, radiological safety, industrial ...

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Nuclear Safety Inspector information

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$10

$34

$79

How much do nuclear safety inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear safety inspector in the United States is $34.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $43.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Safety Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Safety Inspector, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering, physics, or a related scientific field, often supported by a relevant degree and regulatory experience. Familiarity with nuclear safety codes, radiation detection tools, and specialized inspection software is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for identifying risks and conveying findings clearly. These competencies are crucial to ensure compliance, protect public safety, and uphold rigorous industry standards in nuclear facilities.

How to become an NRC inspector?

To become a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) inspector, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or a related field, along with relevant work experience in nuclear or regulatory environments. Applicants must pass a background check, demonstrate knowledge of nuclear safety regulations, and often complete NRC training programs. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the specific role and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Nuclear Safety Inspectors during facility assessments?

Nuclear Safety Inspectors often encounter challenges such as ensuring compliance with stringent safety regulations while navigating complex operational environments. They must remain up-to-date with evolving industry standards and effectively communicate findings to both technical staff and management. Additionally, inspectors may face time constraints during assessments and need to remain objective under pressure, balancing regulatory requirements with practical operational realities.

What are nuclear safety inspectors?

Nuclear safety inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring that nuclear power plants and other facilities using radioactive materials comply with safety regulations and standards. They conduct inspections, review safety procedures, and investigate incidents to minimize the risk of radiation exposure and environmental contamination. Their work helps protect workers, the public, and the environment from potential hazards associated with nuclear energy. Inspectors often work for government agencies or regulatory bodies and require specialized training in nuclear science, engineering, or a related field.

What type of inspectors make the most money?

In the field of nuclear safety inspection, senior or lead inspectors with extensive experience, specialized certifications, and advanced training tend to earn the highest salaries. These roles often involve overseeing safety protocols, conducting complex assessments, and managing teams, which are compensated accordingly within the industry.

How much does a safety inspector make at a nuclear plant?

A nuclear safety inspector typically earns between $70,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They ensure compliance with safety regulations and often work in environments requiring specialized knowledge of nuclear safety protocols.

Can you make $500,000 as a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear safety inspectors and nuclear engineers typically earn salaries well below $500,000 annually. High salaries in the nuclear field are usually associated with senior roles, specialized expertise, or managerial positions, and reaching $500,000 would be uncommon for most roles without significant experience or additional responsibilities.
More about Nuclear Safety Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Safety Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Safety Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Nuclear Safety Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Safety Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Safety Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,568 per year, or $34.9 per hour.
Nuclear Safety Inspector I

Nuclear Safety Inspector I

State of Illinois

West Chicago, IL

$5.5K - $7.8K/mo

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 57084 
Opening Date:
07/08/2026
Closing Date:
07/29/2026
Agency:
Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security
Class Title: 
NUCLEAR SAFETY INSPECTOR I - 83738 
Skill Option: 
None 
Bilingual Option: 
None
Salary:
Anticipated Starting Salary: $5,572 monthly; Full Range $5,572 - $7,898 monthly
Job Type:
Salaried
Category: 
Full Time 
County:
DuPage; Cook
Number of Vacancies:
2
Bargaining Unit Code: 
RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME

About the Agency:  Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of others? The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is a team of dedicated public servants who are committed to better preparing the State of Illinois for natural, manmade, or technological disasters, hazards, or acts of terrorism. IEMA-OHS coordinates the State's disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery programs and activities, functions as the State Emergency Response Commission, and maintains a 24-hour Communication Center and State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC). The SEOC acts as lead in crisis/consequence management response and operations to notify, activate, deploy and employ state resources in response to any threat or act of terrorism. IEMA-OHS assists local governments with multi-hazard emergency operations plans and maintains the Illinois Emergency Operations Plan. IEMA-OHS is also responsible for protecting Illinois residents from the potentially harmful effects of ionizing radiation, administering more than two dozen programs to protect citizens and the environment. Programs include extensive emergency planning and response efforts and training for local responders for accidents involving radiation; inspecting and regulating radioactive materials licensees; registering and inspecting radiation producing equipment and facilities statewide; accrediting medical radiation technologists; and certifying mammography facilities. IEMA-OHS also monitors 11 nuclear power reactors at six nuclear stations licensed to generate electricity in Illinois and inspects and escorts spent nuclear fuel shipments.

This position is a NON-CODE union position.  Provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Resume Preferred but not Required

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered. 

 

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

Join a team committed to protecting public health by ensuring the safe use of x-ray and laser systems throughout Illinois. This position conducts inspections at medical, veterinary, and industrial facilities, measures radiation levels, documents findings, and assists with investigations to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. The role also provides technical guidance to facility staff, supports radiation safety initiatives, and contributes to emergency response activities while helping maintain a safe environment for Illinois residents. We encourage all interested and qualified individuals to apply.

Essential Functions
  • Conducts or assists with x-ray and laser inspections at a variety of medical, veterinary and industrial installations; traveling to locations as necessary.
  • Measures radiation levels using a wide variety of radiation survey equipment for conducting routine x-ray inspections as well as conducting special investigations.
  • Records inspection and investigation results, performs necessary data entry and prepares findings for technical review in accordance with established procedures.
  • Advises and consults with licensed practitioners of the healing arts and other professionals on compliance and quality assurance aspects of x-ray and laser systems.
  • Conducts or assists with routine verification of accredited and/certification of operations and special investigations of reports of unaccredited radiation technologists, or allegations of technical incompetence of radiation technologists in sufficient depth to provide required evidence for legal action, if indicated.Performs the duties of assigned team position as specified in the Standard Operating Procedures of the Illinois Plan for Radiological Accidents.
  • Performs the duties of assigned team position as specified in the Standard Operating Procedures of the Illinois Plan for Radiological Accidents.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonable within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of: (a) a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or physics, supplemented by one (1) year of appropriate experience; or (b) an associate degree in biology, chemistry, or physics, supplemented by three (3) years of appropriate experience.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prefers a formal degree and completion of a program of formal training in x-ray technology of not less than two (2) years duration at a school approved by the Council of Medical Education of the American Medical Association, or two (2) years of college courses leading to an Associate Arts degree in Radiological Technology.
  • Prefers two (2) years of experience operating medical and/or industrial radiography equipment.
  • Prefers one (1) year of experience operating and utilizing radiation detection and machine survey instruments.
  • Prefers one (1) year of experience communicating and collaborating with professionals in the radiological health community.
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires a criminal history check through the Illinois State Police.
  • Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.
  • Requires the ability to use state-issued equipment, such as cellphone, laptop, etc.
  • Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate. Requires appropriate, valid driver’s license.
  • Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position. As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during state employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (OEIG) or may be subject to a fine.
  • This position is considered medium work as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor (20 CFR 404.1567(c)). Medium work involves lifting no more than 50 pounds at a time with frequent lifting or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Overtime is a condition of employment, and you may be requested or required/mandated to work overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime. This may require the ability to work evenings and weekends.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

Work Hours: 8:00a - 4:30p ... Monday - Friday
Headquarter Location: 245 W Roosevelt Rd, West Chicago, Illinois, 60185
Work County: DuPage
Agency Contact:  EMA.Jobs@illinois.gov
Posting Group: Environmental & Natural Resources; Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Revolving Door:

Certain provisions of the revolving door restrictions contained in 5 ILCS 430/5-45 apply to this position.  As a result, the employee should be aware that if offered non-State employment during State employment or within one year immediately after ending State employment, the employee shall, prior to accepting any such non-State employment offer, notify the Office of the Executive Inspector General for the Agencies of the Illinois Governor (“OEIG”) or may be subject to a fine.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the “Apply” button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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