1

Permanent Reactor Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer I/II

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

... reactor design such as reactivity controls and instrumentation, radiation shielding, fuels ... Be Unconstrained by Convention - Our only limits are the laws of physics. Many, even experts, will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Permanent Reactor Physics information

See salary details

$39K

$46.9K

$52.5K

How much do permanent reactor physics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for permanent reactor physics in the United States is $46,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $50,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you work at a nuclear power plant with a physics degree?

A physics degree can qualify you for roles such as reactor physicist at a nuclear power plant, especially when combined with specialized training or certifications in nuclear engineering or reactor operations. Relevant skills include understanding nuclear reactions, radiation safety, and using simulation tools, and some positions may require security clearances or licensing. Practical experience or additional education in nuclear engineering can enhance employment prospects in this field.

What is the difference between Permanent Reactor Physics vs Reactor Operations?

AspectPermanent Reactor PhysicsReactor Operations
CredentialsDegree in nuclear engineering or physics, certifications in reactor physicsTraining in reactor operation, certifications like NRC licenses
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, design facilities, regulatory agenciesPower plants, operational control rooms
Industry UsageDesign, safety analysis, researchDay-to-day plant operation, safety monitoring

Permanent Reactor Physics focuses on reactor design, safety analysis, and research, requiring specialized knowledge in physics and engineering. Reactor Operations involves managing the daily functions of running a nuclear reactor, emphasizing operational procedures and safety protocols. Both roles are essential in the nuclear industry but differ in focus and responsibilities.

What jobs can I get with a nuclear physics degree?

A nuclear physics degree can lead to careers such as reactor physicist, nuclear engineer, health physicist, or research scientist. These roles often involve working in nuclear power plants, research laboratories, or government agencies, and may require knowledge of radiation safety, computational modeling, and specialized software tools.

What is the highest paying physics job?

In the field of physics, roles such as nuclear reactor physicists, especially those working in high-level research, energy, or defense sectors, tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills in reactor modeling and simulation, and security clearances, leading to compensation that surpasses many other physics-related jobs.

What is the salary of a nuclear physicist?

A nuclear physicist's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Those working in research or industry may earn higher salaries, especially with advanced degrees and specialized skills in reactor physics or radiation safety.
More about Permanent Reactor Physics jobs
What cities are hiring for Permanent Reactor Physics jobs? Cities with the most Permanent Reactor Physics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reactor Physics jobs? The most popular types of Reactor Physics jobs are:
What states have the most Permanent Reactor Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Permanent Reactor Physics jobs include:
NEN-1 Undergraduate Student

$13.75 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

What You Will Do

Help support our National Security Mission and discover why we attract the best minds in the world!
The Safeguards Science and Technology organization's purpose is to defend against state-actor misuse of nuclear materials by developing and testing new technologies for domestic and international safeguards and providing training for the safeguard's community.
We are seeking undergraduate students interested in nuclear science/engineering related careers who want to make an impact in one or more areas of our Global Security mission. The group accomplishes this mission by fostering a work environment that encourages creative problem solving, teamwork, and passion for the mission while allowing flexibility in the work assignment.


What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program in any science and engineering disciplines. Examples of Engineering degrees in greatest demand include mechanical, electrical, nuclear, materials, and chemical. Examples of Science degrees in greatest demand include computer science, physics, math/statistics, and chemistry.
  • Must be enrolled in at least 12 semester credit hours (or full-time equivalent) in an accredited degree program (or international equivalent).
  • Entering freshmen must provide documentation indicating matriculation into a suitable undergraduate degree program.
  • Must currently have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
  • Record of fostering a mutually respectful and inclusive work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.
  • Experience working in a team environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate (verbal and written) well in a professional scientific context and commitment to achieving results in a complex social and organizational setting.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Interest in nuclear nonproliferation, design of radiation detection systems or nuclear reactor design
  • Ability to obtain a Q Clearance. Obtaining a Q clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
  • Computer programming (Python, C++, Java, C#, etc) in support of scientific/engineering applications and creating/managing databases (SQL or similar).
  • Experience with RFID software platforms, hardware setup, system integration, and troubleshooting for both passive UHF and active UWB systems.
  • Familiarity with ANSYS software, specifically with the ANSYS HFSS (high frequency structure simulations).
  • Working knowledge of MCNP (Monte Carlo N-Particle) code for conducting particle transport simulations of neutrons, electrons, and/or photons.

Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants: In addition to the resume or CV, you must include a cover letter addressing each of the minimum job requirements and desired skills.
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in Northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. LANL enhances national security by ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile, developing technologies to reduce threats from weapons of mass destruction, and solving problems related to energy, environment, infrastructure, health, and global security concerns. Our generous benefits package includes:
  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
No Clearance: Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Incentive Compensation Program: For general program information refer to the Student Programs web page: https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/student-internships/index.php
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.
The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request a disability accommodation, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505) 664-6947, opt. 3.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
  • Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.
  • Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
  • Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated.

Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
  • Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
  • From here, you will establish an account with username and password.

How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
  • Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
  • Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.

What Los Alamos National Laboratory employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom