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Nuclear Science Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Nuclear Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: No Minimum Clearance Required: Secret Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None Potential for ...

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Nuclear Science information

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$17

$47

$70

How much do nuclear science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear science in Utah is $47.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.67 and $56.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers are available in nuclear science?

Careers in nuclear science include roles such as nuclear physicists, nuclear engineers, health physicists, radiochemists, and nuclear technicians. These professionals work in research, energy production, medical applications, and safety regulation, often requiring specialized education, certifications, and knowledge of radiation safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in nuclear science roles?

Professionals in nuclear science often face challenges related to strict regulatory compliance, ensuring safety protocols are meticulously followed, and managing the complexities of radioactive materials. The work environment typically involves collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, health physicists, and regulatory bodies, to ensure both scientific advancement and public safety. Additionally, staying updated with evolving technology and industry standards is vital, making continuous professional development an important aspect of the role.

What is the highest paying nuclear job?

The highest paying nuclear jobs are typically senior roles such as nuclear engineers, nuclear project managers, or nuclear reactor operators with extensive experience and specialized certifications. These positions often require advanced education, security clearances, and knowledge of safety protocols, and they can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually depending on the industry and location.

What are nuclear scientists and what do they do?

Nuclear scientists are professionals who study the properties, behavior, and uses of atomic nuclei and nuclear energy. They conduct research in areas such as nuclear physics, nuclear engineering, and radiation safety, often working to develop new technologies, improve energy production, or advance medical treatments. Their work can involve operating particle accelerators, designing nuclear reactors, or analyzing the effects of radiation. Nuclear scientists may work in academic, government, or industry settings, contributing to fields like energy, healthcare, and national security.

What do you do with a nuclear science degree?

A nuclear science degree prepares individuals for careers in nuclear power plants, research laboratories, healthcare, and government agencies. Roles often involve radiation safety, reactor operation, nuclear engineering, or research, requiring knowledge of physics, chemistry, and specialized tools like radiation detectors. Certifications and security clearances may be necessary for certain positions.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and nuclear engineering, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or Ph.D. in nuclear science or a related field. Familiarity with analytical software, radiation detection instruments, and regulatory compliance systems is crucial. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring safety, advancing nuclear technology, and adhering to strict industry regulations.

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

Nuclear engineers can earn high salaries, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, or working in specialized roles such as nuclear power plant management or research. While some senior or highly specialized nuclear engineers may reach or exceed $500,000 annually, the average salary is typically lower, around $100,000 to $150,000. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires significant experience, leadership positions, or working in high-paying industries or locations.

What is the difference between Nuclear Science vs Nuclear Engineering?

AspectNuclear ScienceNuclear Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Nuclear Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Nuclear Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesPower plants, research facilities, industrial settings
Industry UsageResearch, academia, policy developmentDesign, operation, and maintenance of nuclear systems

Both Nuclear Science and Nuclear Engineering share foundational knowledge and credentials, often working in overlapping environments. Nuclear Science focuses on research, theory, and fundamental principles, while Nuclear Engineering emphasizes practical application, system design, and operational aspects of nuclear technology.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Science jobs in Utah? For Nuclear Science jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Nuclear Science jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Nuclear Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Science job openings in Utah as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,287 per year, or $47.3 per hour.
Nuclear Surety Engineer

$90K - $108K/yr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

SAIC is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Nuclear Surety Engineer to provide critical support to one of the Department of Defense's most complex and vital acquisition efforts - the Sentinel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Program. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the modernization and sustainment of the U.S. Air Force's land-based strategic deterrent, ensuring its safety, security, and operational readiness well into the 21st century.

The Sentinel ICBM Program is a large-scale, multi-faceted initiative to replace the aging LGM-30G Minuteman III weapon system. Modernization efforts involve the design, certification, and deployment of advanced nuclear-capable missile systems, along with upgraded infrastructure, command and control, and support systems. As a Nuclear Surety Engineer, you will leverage your systems engineering background to help ensure these systems meet the highest nuclear safety, reliability, and certification standards.

Your Role and Responsibilities

  • Conduct comprehensive systems engineering analyses of nuclear weapon and delivery systems to ensure compliance with nuclear surety requirements.
  • Analyze system designs, operational concepts, and performance data to assess adherence to nuclear safety and surety regulations, including AFI 63-125 and 91 Series AFIs.
  • Support the development, review, and verification of nuclear certification artifacts to ensure safety and reliability standards are met.
  • Identify and mitigate technical risks, providing recommendations to address safety and security challenges.
  • Oversee technical aspects throughout the lifecycle of nuclear certification and sustainment efforts, ensuring adherence to program objectives.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, program offices, government stakeholders, and external partners to drive progress in systems development.
SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.
  • Bachelor's degree (BS) in engineering, physics, computer science, mathematics, or a related technical field with a minimum of 3 years of systems engineering experience

  • Active DoD Secret Clearance 

  • Familiarity with systems engineering principles and practices, ideally as applied to military systems or DoD programs.

  • An interest in learning about nuclear certification processes and documentation, including AFI 63-125 and 91 Series Air Force Instructions (AFIs) governing nuclear surety and safety operations.

  • Basic understanding of military hardware or software systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience or exposure to Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) or other nuclear-capable systems is a plus but not required.

  • Basic knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools, such as CAMEO Systems Modeler, DOORS, or other system modeling software, is a bonus but not mandatory.


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