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Nuclear Tech Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

Materials Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

About NANO Nuclear Energy NANO Nuclear Energy is an advanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation microreactor systems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and ...

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All JobsNuclear Tech JobsNuclear Tech Jobs in Chicago, IL

Nuclear Tech information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19

$53

$79

How much do nuclear tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear tech in Chicago, IL is $53.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.38 and $64.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a nuclear tech do?

Nuclear Techs, or Nuclear Technicians, are professionals who assist physicists, engineers, and other experts in nuclear research and production. They operate and maintain equipment used in nuclear power generation, radiation monitoring, and radioactive material handling. Their responsibilities often include monitoring radiation levels, collecting data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed to protect workers and the environment. Nuclear Techs work in various settings, including power plants, laboratories, and hospitals, where they play a crucial role in supporting nuclear technology and safety.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Technician, you need a solid understanding of nuclear physics, safety protocols, and the operation of nuclear equipment, usually supported by an associate degree in nuclear technology or a related field. Familiarity with radiation detection instruments, reactor control systems, and relevant certifications such as the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) qualification are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills help ensure safe and efficient operations. These competencies are vital to maintaining safety standards, regulatory compliance, and reliable performance in high-stakes nuclear environments.

What are some common challenges nuclear techs face when working in a clinical setting?

Nuclear Techs often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols when handling radioactive materials, adapting to rapidly changing technology, and managing time effectively to perform multiple imaging procedures. They must also communicate clearly with patients who may be anxious about nuclear medicine procedures and collaborate closely with radiologists and other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate diagnostic results. Staying current with continuing education requirements and certification standards is essential for career advancement and maintaining best practices.

What is the difference between Nuclear Tech vs Radiologic Technologist?

AspectNuclear TechRadiologic Technologist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., NRC), specialized trainingARRT certification, radiology training
Work EnvironmentNuclear power plants, medical facilities, research labsHospitals, clinics, imaging centers
Industry UsageEnergy, medical, researchMedical imaging and diagnostics

Both roles require specialized certifications and work in medical or energy environments, but Nuclear Tech focuses on nuclear energy and radiation safety, while Radiologic Technologists primarily operate imaging equipment for diagnostics.

How much do nuclear technicians make?

Nuclear technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and certifications. They often work in nuclear power plants, research facilities, or medical settings, requiring specialized training and security clearances.

How to get a job as a nuclear technician?

To become a nuclear technician, candidates typically need an associate degree in nuclear technology or a related field, along with on-the-job training. Certification from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) or equivalent state agency is often required, and strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and familiarity with radiation detection tools are essential.

Is nuclear technician a good job?

Nuclear technicians operate and monitor nuclear reactors and related equipment, often requiring specialized training and certification. The job offers competitive salaries, stable employment, and opportunities for advancement, but it also involves working in high-risk environments that require strict safety protocols. Overall, it can be a good career choice for those interested in science and technology with a focus on safety and precision.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Tech jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Nuclear Tech jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nuclear Tech jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear Tech jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Nuclear Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Tech job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,218 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Nuclear Engineer - Reactor Physics

Nano Nuclear Energy Inc

Oak Brook, IL

$99K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

About NANO Nuclear Energy

NANO Nuclear Energy is anadvanced nuclear technology company developing next-generation microreactorsystems that will help transform the future of clean, reliable, and resilientenergy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR EnergySystem, LOKI MMR Energy System, and ZEUS Solid Core BatteryReactor-advancedhigh-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technologies designed forapplications including data centers, industrial operations, remote communities,and critical infrastructure-the company is advancing innovative nuclearsolutions for a rapidly evolving energy landscape. NANO Nuclear has alsosubmitted a Construction Permit Application (CPA) to the U.S. NuclearRegulatory Commission (NRC) to support the planned deployment of the KRONOS MMRat the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), representing a significantmilestone toward the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology. 

Joining NANO Nuclear meanscontributing to pioneering technologies with the potential to redefine thenuclear industry while working alongside experts in engineering, science, andinnovation. Our team operates in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environmentwhere employees are encouraged to solve challenging technical problems andadvance the materials technologies needed for next-generation energy systems. 

Position Overview:

We are seeking a Nuclear Engineer, Reactor Physics who will be responsible for performing reactor physics analyses of the nuclear reactor power systems in development at Nano Nuclear Energy, Inc. The Nuclear Engineer will support core design enhancement, integrate customer and regulatory requirements into the reactor core design, and perform analysis and prepare documentation to support licensing of the reactor systems.

Responsibilities:

  • Perform neutron and gamma radiation transport calculations to determine activation/dose rates, heating, and material damage effects, and establish radiation shielding requirements.
  • Design radiation shielding throughout the reactor system.
  • Perform criticality safety calculations.
  • Develop, verify, and validate computational tools for reactor multiphysics analysis.
  • Collaborate with engineering, operations & maintenance, safety analysis, and licensing teams.
  • Assist in training and mentoring junior team members.
  • Ensure compliance with nuclear regulations, licensing requirements, and company safety policies.
  • Contribute to the preparation of documents to enable licensing of Nano Nuclear Energy reactor systems.
  • Responsibilities may extend to other divisions of the business at times.
  • Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or related field.
  • 7+ years (or M.Sc. and 5+ years) of relevant experience.
  • Strong Monte Carlo skills and strong understanding of reactor physics. Experience in reactor design, radiation shielding, and criticality safety desirable.
  • Strong programming skills in any language; Python is commonly used in this position.
  • Excellent problem-solving and collaboration skills.
  • Nuclear software verification and validation experience is a plus.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or related field.
  • 7+ years (or M.Sc. and 5+ years) of relevant experience.
  • Strong Monte Carlo skills and strong understanding of reactor physics. Experience in reactor design, radiation shielding, and criticality safety desirable.
  • Strong programming skills in any language; Python is commonly used in this position.
  • Excellent problem-solving and collaboration skills.
  • Nuclear software verification and validation experience is a plus.

Apply