1

Nuclear Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Test Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$150K - $240K/yr

Role Summary The Test Engineer - Nuclear is responsible for the development, execution, and documentation of test programs supporting the Ocean Atomics Reactor. The role spans safety-related and non ...

Nuclear Test Engineer

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Role Summary The Test Engineer - Nuclear is responsible for the development, execution, and documentation of test programs supporting the Ocean Atomics Reactor. The role spans safety-related and non ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Contract Position Overview System One is seeking a Test Engineer to support cutting-edge testing and research activities for advanced nuclear energy technology. This position is responsible for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nuclear Test Engineer information

See salary details

$17

$44

$74

How much do nuclear test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nuclear test engineer?

Nuclear Test Engineers are specialized professionals who design, conduct, and analyze tests on nuclear systems, components, or materials. Their primary goal is to ensure the safety, efficiency, and compliance of nuclear technologies in power plants, military applications, or research facilities. They develop testing protocols, monitor experiments, interpret data, and troubleshoot issues related to nuclear equipment. This role often requires a strong background in engineering, physics, and adherence to strict safety and regulatory standards.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Test Engineer, you need a solid background in nuclear engineering principles, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. Familiarity with testing protocols, radiation detection equipment, simulation software, and relevant safety certifications such as HAZMAT or NRC certifications is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail, along with effective teamwork and communication skills, make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, accurate, and efficient testing processes in environments where precision and safety are paramount.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear test engineers during testing phases, and how are they typically addressed?

Nuclear Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as stringent safety regulations, complex testing protocols, and the need for precise data analysis. They must meticulously plan and execute tests to comply with regulatory standards and ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. Collaborative problem-solving with multidisciplinary teams, thorough documentation, and rigorous quality control measures are essential strategies for addressing these challenges. Continuous training and adherence to best practices in safety and testing help engineers adapt to evolving technologies and maintain high standards.

What is the difference between Nuclear Test Engineer vs Nuclear Safety Engineer?

AspectNuclear Test EngineerNuclear Safety Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in nuclear testingEngineering or science degree, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentTesting facilities, laboratories, nuclear plantsRegulatory agencies, nuclear facilities, safety offices
Industry UsageDesigning and conducting nuclear testsEnsuring safety protocols and compliance
Common Search IntentDifferences, roles, responsibilitiesSafety standards, job duties

While both roles operate within the nuclear industry, a Nuclear Test Engineer focuses on designing and executing nuclear tests to evaluate performance, whereas a Nuclear Safety Engineer concentrates on developing safety protocols and ensuring regulatory compliance. Both positions require specialized knowledge of nuclear systems, but their primary objectives differ: testing versus safety assurance.

More about Nuclear Test Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Nuclear Test Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Nuclear Test Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Nuclear Test Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Nuclear Test Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Nuclear Test Electrical Engineer

Groton, CT


General Dynamics Electric Boat
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview
Nuclear Test Electrical Engineering is responsible for proper installation and testing of reactor plant electrical systems, including Instrumentation and Control (I&C) systems. The candidate for Test Engineer I/II/Sr/Spec will work closely with Nuclear Test Operations (NTO), Ship's Force personnel (SFO), and various organizations at Electric Boat to support building and testing the nuclear electrical systems on board new construction Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines. Candidates must complete a qualification program for Nuclear Test Engineer, Electrical, which involves learning about and discussing various aspects of Nuclear Test Engineering, submarine I&C systems, and shipyard test procedures.
Specific responsibilities include:
  • Initial commissioning of propulsion plant I&C systems
  • Troubleshooting and problem resolution for I&C deficiencies
  • Developing and executing technical work documents for system energization and alignment
  • Recommending, completing, and documenting appropriate retests for repairs and modifications
  • Working with Engineering to resolve technical issues
  • Coordination with Nuclear Test Operations, US Navy personnel, and various Electric Boat trades to execute installation and repair of electrical systems
  • Use and maintenance of computer-based test equipment for propulsion plant I&C systems

Qualifications
Required:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Test experience or Nuclear power experience or a Bachelor's degree in Engineering may be accepted in lieu of experience
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance

Preferred:
  • Experience in testing and/or Naval Nuclear Propulsion
  • Qualification as EOOW/EWS
  • Experience testing and operating electrical/electronic I&C systems
  • Experience troubleshooting I&C systems/equipment
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance

Skills
  • Strong interpersonal, organizational and communication skills
  • Ability to perform independently, as well as interact with other groups and organizations in a team environment

Physical Qualifications
Climbing, Color Vision, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Reaching
Environmental Attributes
Cold, Dry, Dusty, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily


What General Dynamics Electric Boat employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom