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Nuclear Technology Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

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$18

$49

$73

How much do nuclear technology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear technology in Oak Ridge, TN is $49.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.45 and $59.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do nuclear technicians make good money?

Nuclear technicians typically earn a competitive salary, with median wages often above the national average due to the specialized skills and safety requirements involved. They usually need an associate degree in nuclear technology or a related field and may work in power plants, research facilities, or medical settings. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and certifications, but the profession generally offers strong compensation for technical work in a highly regulated industry.

What can you do with a nuclear technology degree?

A nuclear technology degree prepares individuals for careers in nuclear power plants, research facilities, and regulatory agencies. Graduates can work as nuclear engineers, health physicists, radiation safety officers, or nuclear technicians, often requiring knowledge of radiation safety, reactor operations, and relevant certifications. These roles involve ensuring safe and efficient use of nuclear energy and materials.

What is nuclear technology?

Nuclear technology refers to the practical applications of nuclear reactions and radiation, particularly involving the nucleus of atoms. It encompasses a wide range of uses, including generating electricity in nuclear power plants, medical imaging and cancer treatment, food irradiation, and scientific research. Nuclear technology is also important in national security and environmental monitoring. The field requires strict safety protocols and highly trained professionals to ensure safe and efficient operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear technologist?

To thrive as a Nuclear Technologist, you need a solid background in physics, engineering, and radiation safety, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with nuclear instrumentation, radiation detection equipment, and regulatory compliance systems is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help you navigate complex procedures and ensure safety. These skills are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and radiation safety within nuclear technology environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in nuclear technology, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in nuclear technology often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols, adapting to rapidly changing regulations, and ensuring accurate communication across multidisciplinary teams. Addressing these challenges involves continuous training, fostering a culture of safety and transparency, and staying updated with the latest industry standards. Teamwork and proactive problem-solving are essential, as most projects require close collaboration between engineers, operators, and regulatory bodies to achieve safe and efficient outcomes.

What is the difference between Nuclear Technology vs Nuclear Engineering?

AspectNuclear TechnologyNuclear Engineering
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in nuclear technology, physics, or related fieldsRequires a degree in nuclear engineering or related engineering disciplines
Work EnvironmentOperates in nuclear power plants, research facilities, or regulatory agenciesDesigns, develops, and maintains nuclear systems in similar settings
Industry UsageUsed for operational tasks, safety procedures, and regulatory complianceFocuses on system design, safety analysis, and technological development

While both roles involve working with nuclear systems, Nuclear Technology focuses on operational and safety aspects, whereas Nuclear Engineering emphasizes design and development of nuclear systems. Both careers require specialized education and often overlap in work environments, but their primary responsibilities differ.

What are popular job titles related to Nuclear Technology jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? For Nuclear Technology jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nuclear Technology jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Nuclear Technology jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Nuclear Technology jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Nuclear Technology job openings:
Nuclear Technology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Technology job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 13% Internship, 13% As Needed, and 74% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,218 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Nuclear Reactor Controller

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories

Job description

Requisition Id 16831
Overview:
We are seeking a Nuclear Reactor Controller (Reactor Operator) for the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). Under limited supervision, this position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the HFIR in accordance with procedures and regulations, and maintenance of qualification through training.
A Nuclear Reactor Controller at the HFIR is a combination of all the naval nuclear ratings into one role; it is an appropriate position for all nuclear trained MMs, EMs, and ETs as well as personnel with commercial nuclear operations experience.
This position reports to a HFIR Shift Supervisor and resides in the HFIR Operations Section, Research Reactors Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Obtain and maintain certification as a nuclear reactor controller (reactor operator).
  • Follow good operational practices and requirements as required by DOE Order 422.1, Conduct of Operations.
  • Maintain safe and efficient operation of the HFIR in accordance with procedures and regulations.
  • Monitor plant parameters on a real time basis for assigned stations, analyzing trends and plant conditions.
  • Involves operation of the reactor, the support systems for the reactor, water sampling, disassembly and reassembly of reactor components, refueling and defueling operations, tours and log taking throughout the plant and in the control room.
  • Accomplish field work to support reactor operation, including functions as a waste generator and packager, operation of cranes and mobile equipment, inventorying and stocking materials, and other activities such as radiological decontamination.
  • Function under high stress conditions where immediate decision making is required, and rapid actions taken with seamless coordination with other team members.
  • Abiding by the principles of Safe Conduct of Research including being personally responsible for ensuring safe operations by raising safety concerns, using a questioning attitude, considering hazards for every task, and never stop learning.
  • Additional tasks as assigned by management.
  • Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:
  • HS diploma or equivalent
  • A minimum of 3 years of nuclear experience (two years may be nuclear/non-nuclear power plant experience)
  • Must be able to work 12 hour rotating shifts

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Completion of the U.S. Navy Nuclear Power Program

Special Requirements:
  • Physical Requirements: Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • Export control: This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.
  • L clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

Benefits at ORNL:
We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available for certain positions.
If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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