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Nuclear Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Valar Atomics

Systems Engineer - Product

Torrance, CA · On-site

Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for ... The Role The Systems Engineer will participate in research for the Department of Energy (DOE ...

LLNL

Nuclear Systems Reliability Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

We have an opening for a Nuclear Systems Reliability Engineer to apply advanced technical knowledge in support of ongoing projects in the Superblock, a DOE Hazard Category 2 nuclear facility. You ...

LLNL

Nuclear Systems Reliability Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$120K - $151K/yr

We have an opening for a Nuclear Systems Reliability Engineer to apply advanced technical knowledge in support of ongoing projects in the Superblock, a DOE Hazard Category 2 nuclear facility. You ...

LLNL

Nuclear Systems Reliability Engineer

Livermore, CA

$120K - $151K/yr

We have an opening for a Nuclear Systems Reliability Engineer to apply advanced technical knowledge in support of ongoing projects in the Superblock, a DOE Hazard Category 2 nuclear facility. You ...

AlleyCorp

Senior Systems Engineer, Product

Torrance, CA · On-site

$135 - $185/hr

Our mission is to make clean, high‑temperature nuclear power scalable--unlocking abundant energy ... The Role The Systems Engineer will participate in research for the Department of Energy (DOE ...

Valar Atomics

Systems Engineer - Product

Torrance, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for ... The Role The Systems Engineer will participate in research for the Department of Energy (DOE ...

AlleyCorp

Systems Engineer - Product

Torrance, CA · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable--unlocking abundant energy ... The Role The Systems Engineer will participate in research for the Department of Energy (DOE ...

New

Antares

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $154K/yr

We're fueled by the belief that advanced nuclear energy can strengthen our military, solve the ... Strong systems engineering mindset with the ability to work effectively across disciplinary ...

Antares

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$150K - $185K/yr

We're fueled by the belief that advanced nuclear energy can strengthen our military, solve the ... Strong systems engineering mindset with the ability to work effectively across disciplinary ...

General Atomics

Engineer V

San Diego, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

... systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne ... We currently have an exciting position for a Senior Nuclear Licensing Engineer to support our ...

General Atomics

Engineer V

San Diego, CA · On-site

$104K - $125K/yr

... systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne ... We currently have an exciting position for a Senior Nuclear Licensing Engineer to support our ...

Radiant

Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$133K - $190K/yr

Portable nuclear power with rapid-deploy capability can replace similar-sized diesel generators and ... This role bridges systems engineering, design, analysis, manufacturing, and operations. As a ...

Radiant Industries

Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$133K - $190K/yr

Portable nuclear power with rapid-deploy capability can replace similar-sized diesel generators and ... This role bridges systems engineering, design, analysis, manufacturing, and operations. As a ...

Radiant

Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

Portable nuclear power with rapid-deploy capability can replace similar-sized diesel generators and ... This role bridges systems engineering, design, analysis, manufacturing, and operations. As a ...

Antares

Mission Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$112K - $150K/yr

Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline (mechanical, aerospace, nuclear, systems, etc.), physics, or applied science. * 3+ years of experience in complex, safety-critical or defense/aerospace ...

General Matter

Fluid Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100K - $175K/yr

Our mission is to make nuclear not only the cleanest and safest source of baseload power, but also ... About This Role We are seeking a Fluid Systems Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and ...

General Matter

Fluid Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$100K - $175K/yr

Our mission is to make nuclear not only the cleanest and safest source of baseload power, but also ... About This Role We are seeking a Fluid Systems Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and ...

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All JobsNuclear Systems Engineer JobsNuclear Systems Engineer Jobs in California

Nuclear Systems Engineer information

See California salary details

$25.7K

$104.2K

$148K

How much do nuclear systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear systems engineer in California is $104,212.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,200.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a nuclear systems engineer do?

A Nuclear Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, operating, and maintaining nuclear systems and equipment, such as reactors, power plants, and nuclear fuel cycles. They ensure that these systems operate safely, efficiently, and within regulatory standards. Their work often involves analyzing system performance, troubleshooting issues, implementing safety protocols, and working closely with other engineers and regulatory agencies. Nuclear Systems Engineers play a critical role in both energy production and the safe management of nuclear materials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering principles, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation software, safety analysis tools, and certifications like Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) or Professional Engineer (PE) are often required. Exceptional problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and ensure regulatory compliance. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining safety, efficiency, and reliability in complex nuclear systems.

What are some common collaboration points between nuclear systems engineers and other departments within a nuclear facility?

Nuclear Systems Engineers frequently work alongside operations, maintenance, and safety teams to ensure the reliable and safe performance of nuclear systems. They often collaborate with reactor operators to troubleshoot system anomalies, coordinate with safety analysts to verify compliance with regulations, and work with maintenance staff during planned outages or upgrades. This cross-functional teamwork is essential for optimizing plant performance, addressing technical challenges, and ensuring all systems adhere to strict safety standards. Strong communication and documentation skills are therefore highly valued in this role.

What is the difference between Nuclear Systems Engineer vs Nuclear Reactor Operator?

AspectNuclear Systems EngineerNuclear Reactor Operator
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in nuclear engineeringReactor operator license, training certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and maintain nuclear systems in labs or plantsOperate and monitor nuclear reactors in power plants
Industry UsageUsed in engineering firms, research facilities, and power plantsPrimarily employed in nuclear power plants

While both roles work within the nuclear industry, Nuclear Systems Engineers focus on designing and maintaining nuclear systems, whereas Nuclear Reactor Operators are responsible for the day-to-day operation and safety of nuclear reactors. Their credentials, work environments, and industry applications differ, but both are essential for nuclear plant safety and efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Systems Engineer jobs in California?

For Nuclear Systems Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Systems Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Systems Engineer jobs in California are:

Nuclear Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Systems Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,212 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Systems Engineer - Product

Valar Atomics

Torrance, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

About Valar Atomics

At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.

The Role

The Systems Engineer will participate in research for the Department of Energy (DOE) Genesis Mission demonstrating the value of Artificial Intelligence (AI) applied to the design and licensing of a Nuclear Reactor System and optionally for an associated fuel line. The Systems Engineer will prepare architecture models of systems both with and without an AI Model Assistant then produce appropriate licensing documents for delivery to regulators. This project will help define how Valar Atomics achieves its strategic plan to build giga sites and future projects. This position will be located in Torrance, California. Occasional travel (<10%) to other company sites.

Key Responsibilities 

  • Develop and manage system requirements
  • Support system architecture development and design
  • Apply systems engineering lifecycle processes
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams
  • Perform trade studies and risk assessments
  • Create and maintain technical documentation
  • Support integration, testing, and validation
  • Assess AI assisted architecture design and author reports for the DOE

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field
  • 3+ years of systems engineering experience
  • Strong understanding of systems engineering principles
  • Experience working in multidisciplinary environments
  • Strong analytical and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with MBSE methodologies
  • Experience with IBM Rhapsody 10.0 (SysML 1.x)
  • Familiarity with SysML/UML
  • Experience with requirements tools (DOORS, Jama, etc.)
  • Experience in relevant industry
  • Familiarity with use and checking of work items generated by AI Agents like Claude

What We Offer  

  • Competitive base salary 
  • Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company 
  • Comprehensive medical benefits 
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite 
  • Generous PPE stipend
  • High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy 
  • Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement 
  • Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders 
  • The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

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