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Nuclear Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Hinsdale, IL · On-site

$99K - $118K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Roselle, IL · On-site

$98K - $118K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Joliet, IL · On-site

$95K - $114K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Munster, IN · On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Hometown, IL · On-site

$98K - $118K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Inverness, IL · On-site

$97K - $117K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Kildeer, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Knollwood, IL · On-site

$97K - $116K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Riverside, IL · On-site

$99K - $118K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Schererville, IN · On-site

$89K - $107K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Markham, IL · On-site

$93K - $111K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Lansing, IL · On-site

$96K - $115K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Rockdale, IL · On-site

$95K - $113K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

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All JobsNuclear JobsNuclear Jobs in Chicago, IL

Nuclear information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19

$53

$79

How much do nuclear jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear 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 is a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear engineers are professionals who research, design, operate, and maintain systems and equipment that use nuclear energy and radiation. They work on nuclear power plants, medical imaging and treatment devices, nuclear fuel cycles, and radiation safety. Their responsibilities include ensuring safe and efficient nuclear operations, developing new reactor technologies, and complying with strict regulatory standards. This field requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid background in math and science.

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

To thrive as a Nuclear Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's or higher degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software, radiation detection instruments, and safety regulation systems is crucial, along with certifications like the Professional Engineer (PE) license for advanced roles. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals navigate complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are essential for ensuring the safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant operation of nuclear facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in the nuclear industry, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Professionals in the nuclear industry often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, staying up-to-date with evolving regulatory standards, and managing complex, high-stakes projects. Teamwork is essential, as most roles require close collaboration with engineers, technicians, and regulatory bodies. Candidates can prepare by developing strong attention to detail, effective communication skills, and a commitment to continuous learning, especially regarding safety and compliance. Demonstrating adaptability and a proactive approach to problem-solving will also help you thrive in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Nuclear vs Nuclear Technician?

AspectNuclearNuclear Technician
Required CredentialsDegree in nuclear engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's degree in nuclear technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, power plants, government agenciesPower plants, research facilities, maintenance sites
Industry UsageDesign, research, policy, and regulation rolesOperation, maintenance, and safety testing of nuclear systems

While 'Nuclear' refers broadly to the nuclear industry, including engineering, research, and policy roles, 'Nuclear Technician' is a specific technical role focused on operating and maintaining nuclear equipment. Both roles require specialized training, but 'Nuclear' encompasses a wider range of responsibilities and educational backgrounds.

How hard is it to get a job in nuclear?

Getting a job in the nuclear field typically requires specialized education such as a degree in nuclear engineering, physics, or related disciplines, along with relevant certifications and security clearances. Competition can be high due to the specialized skills and safety requirements involved, but job availability depends on industry demand and regional opportunities.

What jobs are there in nuclear?

Jobs in nuclear include nuclear engineers, radiation safety officers, nuclear technicians, health physicists, and reactor operators. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and knowledge of nuclear systems, safety protocols, and radiation protection. Employment can be found in power plants, research facilities, and regulatory agencies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nuclear jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Nuclear jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Nuclear jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Nuclear job openings:

Nuclear jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nuclear job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person 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 • On-site

$120 - $190/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

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 resilient energy. Through the development of its KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, LOKI MMR™ Energy System, and ZEUS™ Solid Core Battery Reactor—advanced high-temperature gas‑cooled reactor (HTGR) technologies designed for applications including data centers, industrial operations, remote communities, and critical infrastructure—the company is advancing innovative nuclear solutions for a rapidly evolving energy landscape. NANO Nuclear has also submitted a Construction Permit Application (CPA) to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to support the planned deployment of the KRONOS MMR at the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign (UIUC), representing a significant milestone toward the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology.

Joining NANO Nuclear means contributing to pioneering technologies with the potential to redefine the nuclear industry while working alongside experts in engineering, science, and innovation. Our team operates in a collaborative, entrepreneurial environment where employees are encouraged to solve challenging technical problems and advance 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.
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