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Nuclear Weapon Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Principal Nuclear Engineer SME

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

The successful candidate will lead technical assessments of foreign nuclear weapons infrastructure, reverse engineer protective hardening measures, and identify vulnerabilities across facilities ...

Leidos

Principal Nuclear Engineer SME

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

The successful candidate will lead technical assessments of foreign nuclear weapons infrastructure, reverse engineer protective hardening measures, and identify vulnerabilities across facilities ...

ARA

Nuclear Survivability Scientist

Nashua, NH · On-site

You will do this by conducting hands-on M&S analyses of technical R&D problems for the nuclear weapon effects, missile defense, communications and space vehicle communities. Strong candidates will ...

Leidos

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Responsibilities include conducting technical assessments of foreign nuclear weapons infrastructure to reverse-engineer protective hardening measures and identify facility, process, and supply chain ...

Leidos

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Reston, VA

$102K - $122K/yr

Responsibilities include conducting technical assessments of foreign nuclear weapons infrastructure to reverse-engineer protective hardening measures and identify facility, process, and supply chain ...

ARA

Nuclear Survivability Scientist

Nashua, NH · On-site

You will do this by conducting hands-on M&S analyses of technical R&D problems for the nuclear weapon effects, missile defense, communications and space vehicle communities. Strong candidates will ...

Arcfield

Nuclear Surety Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$111K - $133K/yr

Review strategic weapon system certification processes and activities to ensure objective quality ... Develop nuclear surety risk assessment methodologies, models, and probabilities of occurrence for ...

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Nuclear Weapon information

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How much do nuclear weapon jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear weapon 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 is a Nuclear Weapon job?

A Nuclear Weapon job involves working with the research, development, maintenance, security, or policy aspects of nuclear weapons. Roles can range from scientists and engineers to military personnel and policy advisors. These jobs often require advanced security clearances and specialized training. They play a crucial role in national defense, arms control, and nonproliferation efforts.

What are nuclear weapons?

Nuclear weapons are highly destructive explosive devices that derive their power from nuclear reactions, either fission or a combination of fission and fusion. They are designed to cause massive destruction and loss of life through the release of immense energy, heat, and radiation. Nuclear weapons have only been used in warfare twice, during World War II, but remain a significant element in international security and deterrence strategies. Their production, proliferation, and disarmament are subject to strict global treaties and regulations due to their devastating potential.

How much do nukes get paid?

Nuclear weapons-related roles, such as nuclear technicians or military personnel involved in nuclear arsenals, typically have salaries that vary based on rank, experience, and location. In the military, pay can range from around $30,000 to over $100,000 annually, with additional benefits and allowances. Civilian experts working in nuclear security or research may earn similar or higher salaries depending on their qualifications and government or contractor employment terms.

Can you make $500,000 as a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear engineers can earn salaries close to or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in specialized roles such as nuclear power plant management or defense. However, such high salaries are typically achieved through senior positions, overtime, or in high-cost-of-living areas, and are not common for entry-level roles.

What is the highest paying nuclear job?

The highest paying nuclear jobs are typically senior roles such as nuclear engineers, nuclear physicists, or nuclear project managers, especially those with advanced security clearances and specialized expertise. These positions often require extensive education, certifications, and experience, and they can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually, depending on the employer and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nuclear Weapons Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nuclear Weapons Specialist, you need a solid background in physics, engineering, or a related technical field, often supported by a relevant degree and specialized military or governmental training. Familiarity with nuclear weapons systems, safety protocols, and secure communication tools is essential, along with certifications such as Department of Energy (DOE) Q clearance. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and strong ethical judgment are critical soft skills for managing sensitive and high-stakes responsibilities. These competencies ensure the safe handling, maintenance, and security of nuclear assets, directly impacting national and global safety.

What is the difference between Nuclear Weapon vs Nuclear Engineer?

AspectNuclear WeaponNuclear Engineer
Required CredentialsSecurity clearance, military or specialized trainingEngineering degree in nuclear or related field, certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary facilities, government labs, classified sitesResearch labs, power plants, industrial settings
Industry UsageDefense, military, government agenciesEnergy, research, medical, industrial sectors

Nuclear weapons and nuclear engineers both work within the nuclear industry but serve different roles. Nuclear weapons involve the development and management of military-grade nuclear arsenals, requiring security clearances and specialized military training. Nuclear engineers focus on designing, operating, and maintaining nuclear systems in civilian applications like energy production and research. While their work environments and credentials differ, both are integral to the nuclear industry.

Is it hard to get a job at a nuclear power plant?

Getting a job at a nuclear power plant as a nuclear technician or engineer typically requires specialized education, such as a degree in nuclear engineering or a related field, along with relevant certifications and training. The hiring process is competitive and involves background checks, security clearances, and passing exams to ensure safety and compliance with industry standards.

What are some unique challenges faced by nuclear weapons engineers in ensuring safety and compliance?

Nuclear weapons engineers face the critical challenge of maintaining the highest safety and security standards due to the sensitive and hazardous nature of their work. They must regularly update their knowledge to comply with evolving governmental regulations and international treaties. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including physicists, safety inspectors, and security personnel—is essential to conduct rigorous testing, maintenance, and risk assessments. Staying vigilant and detail-oriented is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure all protocols are met.
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Nuclear Weapon jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear Weapon job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,964 per year, or $51.9 per hour.
Nuclear Weapons Policy Instructor

Nuclear Weapons Policy Instructor

Gritter Francona

Albuquerque, NM

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Gritter Francona is seeking a highly qualified Nuclear Weapons Instructor to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) supporting advanced education and training programs related to nuclear weapons, nuclear deterrence, and strategic security. The successful candidate will provide classroom instruction, curriculum development, and subject matter expertise to military, government, and/or contractor personnel. This position requires extensive knowledge of nuclear weapons theory, policy, effects, proliferation challenges, and the strategic environment surrounding nuclear deterrence.

The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in nuclear weapons systems, nuclear policy, strategic deterrence, national security, or a related field, along with exceptional communication and instructional skills. This position is performed onsite at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, and requires an active Top Secret security clearance.

Job Duties May Include:

  • Provide instruction in nuclear policy, radiation detection, the theory of nuclear weapons design, nuclear materials production, radiological effects of nuclear weapons, blast and thermal effects of nuclear weapons, laws and treaties egarding nuclear weapons, nuclear proliferation, nuclear intelligence challenges, and the history and evolution of nuclear weapons. 

Requirements

  • Master's Degree
  • 8+ years experience
  • Must possess an active Top Secret clearance
  • Must be able to work onsite at Kirtland AFB

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development

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