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Nuclear Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Overview Join our team as a PRN, Nuclear Medicine Tech in Albuquerque, NM. Why Join Us? Thrive in a People-First Environment and Make Healthcare Better * Thrive: We empower our team with career ...

Radiology - Nuclear Med Tech

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$1.9K - $2.0K/day

Nuclear Med Tech Facility: Short Term Acute Care Estimated Pay: $1981.4 - $2076.4 Duration:13 weeks Specialty:Radiology Shift: Day Shift Details: null Day Job Type: Travel *Estimated weekly pay ...

Nuclear Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$95K - $114K/yr

About the Role As a Nuclear Engineer at Fuse, you'll bring expertise in particle transport, Monte Carlo simulation, radiation shielding, and radiation diagnostics to our fusion facility. You'll ...

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Nuclear information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$17

$46

$69

How much do nuclear jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for nuclear in Rio Rancho, NM is $46.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.34 and $56.35 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 job categories do people searching Nuclear jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Nuclear jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Nuclear jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Nuclear job openings:

Infographic showing various Nuclear job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,372 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Senior/Principal Nuclear Reactor Engineer and Operator - Nuclear Facilities Operations, Onsite

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Sandia
Marketing • 11 - 50 employees

$117K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

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


Key responsibilities

  • Perform Reactor Engineer/Operator duties, including operating a reactor as a certified Reactor Operator.

  • Help prepare and handle experiment packages, which may involve crane operations.

  • Maintain and repair reactor systems and support equipment, which may involve forklift operations.


Job description

About Sandia
Sandia National Laboratories is the nation's premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. Some of the main reasons we love our jobs:
  • Challenging work with amazing impact that contributes to security, peace, and freedom worldwide
  • Extraordinary co-workers
  • Some of the best tools, equipment, and research facilities in the world
  • Career advancement and enrichment opportunities
  • Flexible work arrangements for many positions include 9/80 (work 80 hours every two weeks, with every other Friday off) and 4/10 (work 4 ten-hour days each week) compressed workweeks, part-time work, and telecommuting (a mix of onsite work and working from home)
  • Generous vacation, strong medical and other benefits, competitive 401k, learning opportunities, relocation assistance and amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance*

World-changing technologies. Life-changing careers. Learn more about Sandia at: http://www.sandia.gov
*These benefits vary by job classification.
What Your Job Will Be Like
Are you ready to make a significant impact on national security and advance your career in nuclear engineering? Sandia National Laboratories is seeking a Senior Nuclear Reactor Engineer and Operator to join our innovative team. In this role, you will take on complex challenges at the forefront of nuclear technology, working alongside passionate professionals committed to excellence.
At Sandia, we offer meaningful work that matters, flexible scheduling, and a supportive environment designed to promote a healthy work/life balance. As a valued member of our Nuclear Facilities Operations team, you will contribute to both the Annular Core Research Reactor and the Critical Experiments Reactor, engaging in projects that drive progress and shape the future.
On any given day, you may be called on to:
  • Perform Reactor Engineer/Operator duties, which includes operating a reactor as a certified Reactor Operator.
  • Help prepare and handle experiment packages which may involve crane operations.
  • Maintain and repair reactor systems and associated support equipment which may involve forklift operations.
  • Support experiment plan development and execution at nuclear facilities, radiological facilities, and reactors.
  • Ensure that facility operations align with the framework of a strong nuclear safety culture and implement effective operational decision-making.
  • Prepare and present technical reports and presentations for professional organizations and user groups.

Join our dedicated team and attain your goals while making a difference!
Due to the nature of the work, the selected candidate must be able to work onsite.
Salary Range
$117,500 - $235,700
*Salary range is estimated, and actual salary will be determined after consideration of the selected candidate's experience and qualifications, and application of any approved geographic salary differential.
Qualifications We Require
  • Bachelor's degree in relevant science, technology or engineering field plus 5 years relevant experience - or - an Associates degree plus 8 years of relevant experience - or - completion of Navy Nuclear Power School plus 8 years relevant experience - or - combination of education and relevant experience
  • Experience at a nuclear reactor facility in operations/maintenance
  • Within one year from date of hire, you are required to certify Reactor Operator in accordance with Facility Operations Staff Training and Certification Requirements
  • Able to acquire and maintain a DOE Q security clearance

Qualifications We Desire
  • Masters' degree in a STEM discipline
  • Current or previous experience as a Reactor Operator
  • Mechanical background
  • Experience maintaining and repairing Reactor Instrumentation and Control Systems
  • Knowledge of SNL reactor facilities
  • Familiarity with DOE nuclear facility requirements
  • Ability to complete complex assignments with minimal management guidance
  • Demonstrated leadership, initiative, and organizational skills to balance multiple tasks and deadlines
  • Excellent interpersonal, written and communication skills
  • Experience with troubleshooting and repair
  • Current DOE Q security clearance

About Our Team
Nuclear Facilities Operations, Department (1381) provides operational management of nuclear reactor facilities within TA-V. These facilities include the Annular Core Research Reactor Facility and the Sandia Pulsed Reactor Facility. These nuclear facilities are used in the conduct of experiments for a wide variety of programmatic customers. Detailed facility descriptions are captured in the documented safety analysis for each nuclear facility.
Posting Duration
This posting will be open for application submissions for a minimum of three (3) calendar days, including the 'posting date'. Sandia reserves the right to extend the posting date at any time.
Security Clearance
Sandia is required by DOE to conduct a pre-employment drug test and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verifications. Applicants for employment need to be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. If you hold more than one citizenship (i.e., of the U.S. and another country), your ability to obtain a security clearance may be impacted.
Applicants offered employment with Sandia are subject to a federal background investigation to meet the requirements for access to classified information or matter if the duties of the position require a DOE security clearance. Substance abuse or illegal drug use, falsification of information, criminal activity, serious misconduct or other indicators of untrustworthiness can cause a clearance to be denied or terminated by DOE, resulting in the inability to perform the duties assigned and subsequent termination of employment.
EEO
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.
NNSA Requirements for MedPEDs
If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED), such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug-releasing pump, hearing aids, or diagnostic equipment and other equipment for measuring, monitoring, and recording body functions such as heartbeat and brain waves, if employed by Sandia National Laboratories you may be required to comply with NNSA security requirements for MedPEDs.
If you have a MedPED and you are selected for an on-site interview at Sandia National Laboratories, there may be additional steps necessary to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements prior to the interview date.