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Nuclear Structural Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Nuclear Structural Engineer information

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$45.4K

$90.2K

$138K

How much do nuclear structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear structural engineer in Tennessee is $90,217.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,600.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by nuclear structural engineers in their daily work?

Nuclear Structural Engineers regularly face the challenge of designing and analyzing structures that must withstand extreme conditions, such as seismic activity, radiation, and strict regulatory requirements. They often work as part of multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with mechanical, electrical, and nuclear engineers to ensure all safety and compliance standards are met. Navigating evolving regulatory frameworks and implementing complex safety measures requires meticulous attention to detail and ongoing professional development. These challenges make the role both demanding and rewarding, as engineers directly contribute to the safety and reliability of nuclear facilities.

What is a nuclear structural engineer?

A Nuclear Structural Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and ensuring the structural integrity of buildings, containment structures, and support systems in nuclear facilities. They work with materials that can withstand extreme conditions, such as radiation and high temperatures, to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. Their role also includes assessing seismic risks, performing stress tests, and collaborating with other engineers to maintain nuclear plant reliability.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a nuclear structural engineer?

To thrive as a Nuclear Structural Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or structural engineering, with knowledge of nuclear industry codes, standards, and safety regulations, usually accompanied by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure (PE). Proficiency with structural analysis software such as ANSYS, STAAD.Pro, and knowledge of nuclear-specific design protocols and regulatory documentation is vital, and certifications like NQA-1 or experience with ASME codes are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial to ensure the safety, resilience, and regulatory compliance of nuclear facility structures, directly impacting public safety and project success.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Structural Engineer jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Nuclear Structural Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Structural Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,217 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Structural Engineer

GEM Technologies, Inc

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago


Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE
We are seeking a Structural Engineer to join our team supporting the Oak Ridge National Laboratory! This position is full-time and will be based out of Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
Responsibilities
  • Performs calculations and interprets industry codes to support design development.
  • Provides project management support for installation of design changes.
  • Provides engineering support for fabrication of HBRR components.
  • Performs structural analysis and calculations to support design or modification of tools used for hoisting and rigging.
  • Ensures that HFIR structural specifications and drawings are prepared in accordance with appropriate DOE and industry codes and standards.
  • Interprets and implements DOE Natural Phenomena Hazard codes and regulations, as well as nuclear facility structural material design codes, such as ASCE 4, ACI 349, and AISC N690.
  • Performs seismic qualifications, analyses, and evaluations in accordance with DOE-STD-1020 and -021 and International Building Code.
  • Provides written work package instructions to perform and document work.
  • Provides field technical support to craft supervisors and craft as needed.
  • Ensures engineering design documents and drawings are completed and properly placed under RRD Configuration Management.

Requirements
  • Education & Years of Experience -Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering with a strong structural background and a minimum of 10 years of experience in the DOE's nuclear facilities and/or the commercial nuclear plants.
  • Citizenship - To be considered, you must be a United States (U.S.) citizen due to the federal nature of the work.
  • Clearance - To be considered, you must be able to obtain and maintain a government issued clearance, if needed.
  • Must be highly knowledgeable and proficient in material designs such as steel, masonry, concrete, and cold formed metal design.
  • Must possess a strong understanding of material handling practices and the various lift classifications as defined in ORNL SBMS.
  • Requires proficiency in applying AISC, ACI, AWS, ASCE, ANSI, and other relevant codes and standards for nuclear facility design.

Desired Skills
  • Experience with STAAD.Pro finite element analysis is desirable.
  • Experience with dynamic response spectra analyses is also desirable.
  • M.S. degree preferred.

About the Site
The DOE's Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, conducts research and development to create scientific knowledge and solutions that strengthen the nation's leadership in key areas of science; increase the availability of clean, abundant energy; restore and protect the environment; and contribute to national security. ORNL also performs isotope production, information management, and technical program management (energy.gov).
ABOUT GEM
GEM Technologies, Inc. (GEM) is an award-winning federal contractor with more than 30 years of experience providing environmental, construction, facility management, and technical services to federal agencies, state and local governments, and commercial organizations. Founded in 1994 as a nuclear engineering firm to support federal operations in East Tennessee, GEM has since expanded into a nationwide, multi-disciplinary provider with over 270 employees and a diverse portfolio of contracts in the environmental, nuclear, and defense sectors. Some reasons to join GEM are:
  • Our philosophy - We believe in the power of effective collaboration and recognize that good partnerships are the building blocks to success.
  • Our relationships - Partnering with federal clients, we solve complex problems, exceed expectations, and advance critical missions.
  • Our team - We are committed to managing a cohesive workforce and cultivating a supportive workplace for our employees on contracts and in-office.
  • Our community involvement - Supporting our communities, we invest time and money in local schools and non-profit organizations.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
GEM's offered compensation is dependent on candidates' education, qualifications, and relevant years of experience. To recruit and retain our exceptional staff, we offer the opportunity to elect benefit packages that best suit our employee's needs; this includes, but is not limited to, a competitive Salary, Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (including HSA & PPO options), Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, Life Insurance, and a matching 401(k) Retirement Plan.
Please Note: With the exception of mandated state requirements, GEM does not publish salary information on external job boards; as such, most ranges listed are estimates made by vendors and not actual salary ranges.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
GEM Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.