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Nuclear Submarine Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$80K - $100K/yr

Provide dedicated analytical support for major pre-award contract actions, including follow-on contracts for the Nuclear Submarine Parts Basic Ordering Agreement (BOA), Sub-Repair BOAs, Nuclear ...

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Nuclear Submarine information

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How much do nuclear submarine jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear submarine in the United States is $51.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.18 and $62.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical working conditions and team structure for those serving on a nuclear submarine?

Crew members on a nuclear submarine operate in a highly controlled, confined environment, often spending weeks or months at sea with limited personal space. Teams are organized into specific departments such as engineering, navigation, communications, and weapons, each with clearly defined roles and a strong emphasis on collaboration. The demanding nature of submarine missions requires close coordination and trust among crew members, as well as strict adherence to safety and operational protocols. Daily routines are structured around shifts, drills, maintenance, and mission-specific tasks, fostering a disciplined and supportive work environment. These conditions promote camaraderie, resilience, and excellent teamwork skills that are highly valued both within the submarine force and in future career opportunities.

Do Submariners get paid well?

Submariners typically receive competitive salaries that reflect the specialized skills, security clearances, and demanding environment of submarine service. Their compensation often includes additional allowances for hazardous duty, overtime, and extended deployments, making it a well-paying military career option.

What jobs can you do on a submarine?

Jobs on a submarine include roles such as sonar technician, nuclear reactor operator, navigation officer, weapons specialist, and engineering technician. These positions require specialized training, security clearances, and the ability to work in confined, high-pressure environments for extended periods.

How to work on a nuclear submarine?

Working on a nuclear submarine typically requires completing a military or specialized civilian training program, obtaining security clearances, and earning relevant technical certifications in nuclear propulsion, engineering, or electronics. Candidates must pass physical and background checks and often serve in the military or government agencies that operate submarines. The work environment is highly regulated and safety-focused, with strict adherence to protocols and procedures.

How much does a nuclear submarine worker make?

Nuclear submarine workers, such as nuclear technicians and engineers, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and location. These roles often require specialized training, security clearances, and working in a confined, high-security environment.

What is a Nuclear Submarine job?

A Nuclear Submarine job typically involves operating, maintaining, or supporting the systems onboard a nuclear-powered submarine. Roles vary from nuclear reactor technicians and mechanical engineers to sonar operators and navigation specialists. These professionals ensure the vessel remains operational, safe, and mission-ready. Extensive training and security clearances are usually required, given the complexity and sensitivity of the work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Nuclear Submarine position, and why are they important?

To excel as a Nuclear Submarine crew member, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in engineering, physics, or a related technical field, often supported by military training and security clearance. Proficiency with submarine navigation systems, nuclear propulsion systems, and safety protocols, as well as certifications in nuclear operations, are typically required. Exceptional teamwork, adaptability, and stress management are important soft skills for this demanding environment. Mastering these skills ensures operational safety, effective mission execution, and the ability to excel during extended deployments under challenging conditions.

More about Nuclear Submarine jobs
What cities are hiring for Nuclear Submarine jobs? Cities with the most Nuclear Submarine job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear Submarine jobs? The most popular types of Nuclear Submarine jobs are:
What states have the most Nuclear Submarine jobs? States with the most job openings for Nuclear Submarine jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nuclear Submarine job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 35% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 32% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,964 per year, or $51.9 per hour.
Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program

Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program

U.S. Navy

Fort Lauderdale, FL

$4.0K/mo

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

For current undergraduate students, especially those pursuing majors such as mathematics, engineering, physics, or chemistry, you have the chance to get paid and receive a guaranteed Navy commissioning program while finishing school through the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) program.

Surface Warfare Officer (Nuclear)
If accepted into the NUPOC program as an aspiring Surface Warfare Officer (Nuclear), you can:

  • Receive a salary in excess of $4,000 per month for up to 30 months prior to your college graduation.
  • Receive an immediate one-time sign-on bonus of $15,000, plus an additional $2,000 bonus upon completion of nuclear propulsion training.
  • Enjoy military healthcare benefits while you are a student in the program.

Nuclear Submarine Officer
If accepted into the NUPOC program as an aspiring Submarine Officer, you can:

  • Receive a salary in excess of $4,000 per month for up to 30 months prior to your college graduation.
  • Receive an immediate one-time sign-on bonus of $15,000, plus an additional $2,000 bonus upon completion of nuclear propulsion training.
  • Enjoy military healthcare benefits while you are a student in the program.

Interested candidates should contact the local Navy Officer Programs Recruiter to discuss the opportunity to participate in a fleet visit to see if this career is right for you. The fleet visit is an all-expenses-paid 3-day trip to San Diego, CA, to visit an active submarine and meet with currently serving Submarine Officers. These trips are conducted every month, and there is no obligation to join the program in order to attend.

Naval Reactor Engineer
If accepted into the NUPOC program as an aspiring Naval Reactors Engineer, you can:

  • Receive a salary in excess of $4,000 per month for up to 18 months prior to your college graduation.
  • Receive an immediate one-time sign-on bonus of $15,000.
  • Enjoy military healthcare benefits while you are a student in the program.

Interested candidates should contact the local Navy Officer Programs Recruiter to discuss the opportunity to participate in a Naval Reactors visit to see if this career is right for you. The visit is an all-expenses-paid 3-day trip to the Navy Yard in Washington, DC, to meet with currently serving Naval Reactor Engineers.

These trips are conducted twice a year, and there is no obligation to join the program in order to attend.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Be a U.S. citizen (dual citizens must renounce non-U.S. citizenship).
  • Be at least 19 years of age and less than 29 years of age at the time of commissioning (waivers up to 35 years of age for select jobs may be available).
  • Must pass a medical examination.
  • Must pass a background investigation.

Education Requirements
Candidates must be graduates or students of an accredited college or university in the United States or in a U.S. territory, pursuing a BA, BS, or MS (preferably in mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry, or other technical areas).

Applicants may apply as early as:

  • 30 months from completion of an undergraduate degree for Surface Warfare (Nuclear), Submarine, and Instructor positions.
  • 18 months from completion of an undergraduate degree for Naval Reactors Engineers.
  • 12 months from completion of a master’s degree for all NUPOC positions.

Additional Academic Requirements

  • Completed one academic year of calculus.
  • Completed one academic year of calculus-based physics.
  • A competitive GPA with a minimum grade of “B” in all technical courses (minimum grade of “C” in all technical courses for Nuclear Submarine Officer and Nuclear Surface Warfare Officer candidates).
  • General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you intend to serve Active Duty or Reserve Duty and whether you are currently serving, have served before, or have never served before.

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