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Nuclear Security Officers Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Security Officer

Richland, WA ยท On-site

$52.15/hr

Energy Northwest Nuclear Security Officers are required to carry weapons; therefore, we will conduct a thorough background investigation, which will include fingerprinting sent to the FBI. If you ...

Energy Northwest Nuclear Security Officers are required to carry weapons; therefore, we will conduct a thorough background investigation, which will include fingerprinting sent to the FBI. If you ...

New

Nuclear Security Officer

Richland, WA ยท On-site

$52.15/hr

Energy Northwest Nuclear Security Officers are required to carry weapons; therefore, we will conduct a thorough background investigation, which will include fingerprinting sent to the FBI. If you ...

New

Nuclear Security Officer - Armed

Wiscasset, ME ยท On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Nuclear Security Officer - Armed Job Locations US-ME-Wiscasset Category (Portal Searching) Security Officer Level Shifts Available Afternoon, Evening, Morning, Overnight Business Unit RSS Overview ...

Nuclear Security Officer - Armed

Wiscasset, ME ยท On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

The Nuclear Security Professional provides physical protection of nuclear power generating facilities against intrusion and acts of sabotage. The Security Professional conducts stationary guarding as ...

Nuclear Security Officer - Armed

Wiscasset, ME ยท On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

The Nuclear Security Professional provides physical protection of nuclear power generating facilities against intrusion and acts of sabotage. The Security Professional conducts stationary guarding as ...

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Nuclear Security Officers information

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$17

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$36

How much do nuclear security officers jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear security officers in the United States is $25.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $36.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a nuclear security officer?

To become a nuclear security officer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks and drug screenings, and complete specialized training in security procedures and emergency response. Some positions may require a security clearance or certification, such as the Nuclear Security and Safety Certification, and physical fitness is often a requirement.

What are Nuclear Security Officers?

Nuclear Security Officers are specialized security professionals responsible for protecting nuclear power plants, materials, and related facilities from threats such as theft, sabotage, or unauthorized access. They monitor surveillance equipment, conduct patrols, respond to security breaches, and enforce strict access controls. These officers must follow rigorous protocols and often undergo extensive training to handle emergency situations safely and effectively. Their role is critical to ensuring the safety and security of nuclear materials and the public.

What is the difference between Nuclear Security Officers vs Security Guards?

AspectNuclear Security OfficersSecurity Guards
CredentialsOften require specialized training, security clearances, and certifications related to nuclear facilitiesGenerally require basic security or guard licenses, with minimal specialized training
Work EnvironmentOperate in nuclear power plants, nuclear material storage sites, or other sensitive facilitiesWork in various settings like malls, offices, or events
Employer & IndustryPrimarily employed by nuclear facilities, government agencies, or security contractorsEmployed across diverse industries including retail, commercial, and event security

While both roles focus on security, Nuclear Security Officers have specialized training, clearances, and work in highly sensitive nuclear environments, whereas Security Guards typically serve in general security roles across various industries.

What are the typical challenges Nuclear Security Officers face while working at power plants or research facilities?

Nuclear Security Officers often encounter challenges such as maintaining a high level of vigilance during long shifts, adapting to evolving threat scenarios, and strictly adhering to complex regulatory protocols. The role requires constant training to stay updated on security procedures and to respond to simulated emergencies. Officers also need to work effectively as part of a coordinated team, often interacting with law enforcement and plant personnel to ensure comprehensive facility protection. Balancing routine patrol duties with readiness for critical incidents is a key aspect of the job.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Security Officer, you need a thorough understanding of security protocols, emergency response procedures, and typically a background in law enforcement or military, often supported by state licensing and security clearances. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technologies, and firearms certifications is crucial. Strong attention to detail, composure under pressure, and effective communication skills are key soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring the protection of sensitive nuclear facilities and maintaining public safety in high-stakes environments.

What is the highest paid security officer job?

The highest paid security officers are often those in specialized roles such as nuclear security officers or executive protection agents, with salaries exceeding $80,000 annually. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, and working in high-risk or sensitive environments typically contribute to higher compensation.

How much does a nuclear security officer make per hour?

A nuclear security officer typically earns between $20 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and certifications such as the Nuclear Security Officer Certification. The role often requires working in secure environments with shift work and security protocols.

What is a nuclear security officer?

A nuclear security officer is responsible for protecting nuclear facilities, materials, and equipment from theft, sabotage, or unauthorized access. They monitor security systems, conduct patrols, and enforce safety protocols, often requiring specialized training and security clearances. Their role is critical in ensuring the safety and security of nuclear assets.
More about Nuclear Security Officers jobs
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Security Officers jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Security Officers jobs are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Security Officers job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,714 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Nuclear Security Officer

Nuclear Security Officer

Energy Northwest

Richland, WA โ€ข On-site

$52.15/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY
An armed, uniformed individual, whose primary duties are the protection of special nuclear material from theft, and protection of a nuclear plant against radiological sabotage. The ability to demonstrate physical fitness for assigned security duties as required by the 10CFR Part 73, Appendix B.I.C.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
The Nuclear Security Officer (NSO) is responsible to ensure physically checking buildings and rooms to determine if they are secure and in order. Responsibilities include tactical armed responder duties and alarm assessment. Act as a surveillance sentry and vital door guard. Operate reader and communication equipment. Perform armed escort and response duties. Conduct vehicle, personnel, and material searches for the detection of firearms, explosives, and incendiary devices. The individual must be able to perform and demonstrate the ability to complete physical training qualifications to maintain access. May be required to withstand occasions of extreme physical exertion when responding to alarms and during drills. Must be able to work any shift and overtime as required.
Will work with the following equipment, tools, machinery, and material: X-ray machines, 2-way radios, firearms, capstun, ammunition, handcuffs, response equipment (body armor, body bunkers, gas mask, tactical vest, mobile defensive barrier, gas canister, and other pertinent security equipment), alarm panels, hand-held metal detectors, badges, dosimeters, vehicle search mirror, flashlights, cameras, monitors, intrusion detection system, and other standard security and office equipment.
REQUIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • A high school diploma or GED is required.
  • Must be 21 years of age.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
  • Must be able to meet requirements to lawfully possess or receive firearms and ammunition in performance of Nuclear Security Officer duties.

Continuing Qualifications to maintain position:
  • Successful completion of Plant Access, Safeguards, and Respiratory Protection training.
  • Must successfully pass initial and subsequent medical, physical fitness, psychological, cognitive, personality, and security training imposed by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and/or Energy Northwest.

PAY RATE:
This a bargaining unit position starting at $33.77 per hour with a step progression every 6 months until you reach the top pay rate of $52.15 per hour at 24 months.
Pre-Employment Requirements:
  • Must have high school diploma or GED

  • Must be 21 years of age

  • Possess a valid driver's license

  • Pass a drug and alcohol test

  • Pass all physical requirements including a psychological examination

  • Be able to obtain and maintain unescorted access

Mandatory Job Requirements:
The following are representative examples of mandatory Nuclear Security Officer employment requirements:
  • Work 12-hour rotating shifts, days and nights, including weekends and holidays.

  • Carry weapons and are required to complete and pass periodic firearm testing.

  • Maintain stringent fitness requirements and are required to complete and pass an annual fitness agility test.

  • Complete and pass a yearly medical qualification examination.

  • Obtain and maintain unescorted access.

  • Be clean-shaven and meet grooming standards.

  • Wear the uniform issued by Energy Northwest.

  • Subject to random alcohol and drug testing.

  • Subject to periodic background and credit screening.

  • Must successfully complete ongoing classroom training, weapons training, and on-the-job training.

The following qualifications are desirable for the Nuclear Security Officer position:
Military or Security-related Work Experience
Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement Degree or Work Experience
Employment Background Investigation:
Energy Northwest Nuclear Security Officers are required to carry weapons; therefore, we will conduct a thorough background investigation, which will include fingerprinting sent to the FBI.
If you have been convicted of the misdemeanor crime of Domestic Violence, you will not be able to lawfully possess or receive firearms or ammunition for any purpose.
You must provide a 10-year work history with no gaps (must explain what you have been doing for the last 10 years).
This position is represented by United Steel Workers (USW Local 12-369).
No relocation assistance.
BENEFITS
Energy Northwest (EN) offers a highly competitive and substantial benefits package which allows employees (and their families) to enroll in medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Other voluntary benefits include flexible spending accounts, tuition reimbursement, supplemental life insurances, credit monitoring, and identity theft insurance. EN offers three retirement programs to qualifying employees including a matching 401(k) deferred compensation plan, the Washington State Pension Plan (PERS), a company-provided contribution into an HRA VEBA account each pay period, and a 457(b) savings plan. Employees will also accrue 160 hours of personal time per year and receive nine paid holidays throughout the calendar year.
Other available compensation includes our annual At-Risk Compensation program and various monetary recognition programs, when approved. Stipends are available to qualifying positions, after incumbent successfully completes required training.
Posting closes at 11:59 PM the day before the listed end date.
The application process is completed in stages. Once you have applied, please watch your email and your Workday account notifications for required next steps in order to move forward in the process.
See below for approximate dates and locations for the application process. Candidates who move from one stage to the next will be specifically notified.
7/7 - 7/29 APPLICATION AND SUBSEQUENT QUESTIONNAIRE COMPLETION Once you have applied in Workday, selected candidates will receive a series of questionnaires to complete prior to moving to the next stage. Please watch your email and your Workday account notifications for these.
8/17 - 8/20 COGNITIVE/PHYSICAL AGILITY TESTING AND INTERVIEWS will be conducted. You will need to be available all day on one of these days for cognitive and physical agility testing, which will be conducted in person in Richland, WA. Interviews will be conducted directly after successful completion of the cognitive and physical agility tests.
The agility test is a Physical Performance Test, which consists of: 1. Sit Up--complete 22 sit-ups in 60 seconds; 2. Arm Lift--must achieve an average score of 50 lbs of force on 3 tries; 3. Leg Endurance--minimum standard is 88 revolutions within 60 seconds pedaling a preset bicycle; 4. Horizontal ladder coordination test. (Wear running shoes and comfortable clothing when participating in this test.)
8/24 - 8/28 CONTINGENT OFFERS contingent on your ability to successfully complete the remaining items of the pre-employment testing, which include medical evaluations.
NOTE: Please be aware that more candidates are receiving conditional offers of employment than there are positions available, since it is anticipated that some candidates may be unsuccessful in the final pre-employment testing and/or may choose to withdraw. If more candidates successfully complete the final pre-employment testing than there are positions available, final offers will be based upon an assessment of the candidates' performance throughout all phases of the selection process.
9/7 - 9/18 PHYSICALS
Medical Testing and Physicals consist of: 1. Fasting blood test; 2. Vision test to include intraocular eye pressure; 3. Hearing test; 4. EKG; 5. Pulmonary Function Test; 6. Urinalysis; 7. Physical examination will be completed by a physician at Lourdes Occupational Health Center in Pasco, WA, unless a candidate is from out-of-area which will result in this being conducted near your residence if at all possible.
Due to the tight schedule, there is no flexibility for rescheduling physicals in the event of a "no-show." It is your responsibility to ensure you are available on the dates mentioned above. You will need to be available approximately 1.5 hours one of these days for this process.
9/21 - 9/24 TEMPORARY HIRE & PRE-EMPLOYMENT TESTING
NOTE: You will be paid during this period. Expect to be available 4-6 days during this timeframe.
Pre-employment testing will include Fitness for Duty (drug and alcohol testing), MMPI (Psychological evaluation and interview) and General Employee Training (computer-based testing).
9/24 - 9/28 FINAL OFFERS MADE
Final offers will be based upon an assessment of the candidates' performance throughout all phases of the selection process. A probationary period of 6 months will be conducted; this will determine your continued full-time employment.
10/12 EXPECTED FULL-TIME START DATE
Congratulations! You successfully completed all phases of the application/employment process. This will be your official start date of training. Benefits will be effective January 1, 2026.
If you have any questions, you may contact Energy Northwest:
  • Megan Mittleider (509) 377-4763

  • Anne Younes at (509) 372-5198

This is a bargaining unit position and the hourly pay rate is:
$33.77
Pay In Lieu of Benefits Amount:
$0.50
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate due to race, color, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, national origin, veteran status or on the basis of disability.
Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal