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Physicist Nuclear Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Navy

NUCLEAR ENGINEER

Kittery, ME

$120K/yr

Experience working with advanced mathematics, physics, and engineering sciences applied to sophisticated modeling, optimization, and performance evaluation of nuclear systems. * Experience analyzing ...

ITResource Hunter

Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$104K - $125K/yr

This may include nuclear engineering areas such as radiation shielding, criticality safety, accident dose consequence, reactor physics modeling and design, transient analysis, and radiation detection.

New

Radiant

Principal Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$207K - $256K/yr

Lead an interdisciplinary team working across reactor physics, core performance, shielding, dose ... Own nuclear engineering projects from requirements capture and design iteration through model ...

Cantos Ventures

Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106.50 - $146.48/hr

This may include nuclear engineering areas such as radiation shielding, criticality safety, accident dose consequence, reactor physics modeling and design, transient analysis, and radiation detection.

Radiant Industries

Principal Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$104K - $125K/yr

Lead an interdisciplinary team working across reactor physics, core performance, shielding, dose ... Own nuclear engineering projects from requirements capture and design iteration through model ...

Radiant Industries

Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$104K - $125K/yr

This may include nuclear engineering areas such as radiation shielding, criticality safety, accident dose consequence, reactor physics modeling and design, transient analysis, and radiation detection.

Radiant Industries, Inc.

Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$120 - $190/hr

This may include nuclear engineering areas such as radiation shielding, criticality safety, accident dose consequence, reactor physics modeling and design, transient analysis, and radiation detection.

US Department of the Navy

NUCLEAR ENGINEER

Bremerton, WA · On-site

$131K/yr

You will serve as a NUCLEAR ENGINEER in the Code 3910N, the Nuclear Equipment & Facilities Division ... physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a ...

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Physicist Nuclear Engineer information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do physicist nuclear engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for physicist nuclear engineer in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physicist nuclear engineer?

Physicist Nuclear Engineers are professionals who combine the principles of physics and nuclear engineering to study, design, and implement systems involving nuclear energy and radiation. They may work on nuclear power plants, radiation safety, medical applications, nuclear weapons, or research in nuclear technology. Their work involves understanding nuclear reactions, developing safe procedures for handling radioactive materials, and advancing innovations in energy production or medical imaging. These experts often collaborate with other engineers and scientists to solve complex problems related to nuclear science.

How do physicists and nuclear engineers typically collaborate on projects involving nuclear reactor design?

Physicists and nuclear engineers often work closely together on nuclear reactor design projects. Physicists focus on understanding fundamental nuclear processes and developing theoretical models, while nuclear engineers apply these models to solve practical engineering challenges, such as reactor safety and efficiency. Collaboration usually involves interdisciplinary meetings, shared research, and joint problem-solving sessions to ensure that theoretical insights are effectively translated into real-world reactor systems. This team-based approach helps bridge the gap between scientific discovery and applied engineering, leading to innovative and safe reactor designs.

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

To thrive as a Physicist Nuclear Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and nuclear engineering, often supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MCNP or ANSYS), radiation detection equipment, and knowledge of regulatory standards is typically required, with professional certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license being advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications ensure safety, innovation, and compliance in the design and operation of nuclear systems.

What is the difference between Physicist Nuclear Engineer vs Nuclear Technician?

AspectPhysicist Nuclear EngineerNuclear Technician
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Physics or Nuclear EngineeringAssociate's or Bachelor's in Nuclear Technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, nuclear power plantsNuclear power plants, medical facilities, research sites
Job FocusTheoretical research, design, and development of nuclear systemsOperating, maintaining, and monitoring nuclear equipment

Physicist Nuclear Engineers typically hold advanced degrees and focus on research and design in nuclear science, while Nuclear Technicians support operational tasks and maintenance in nuclear facilities. Both roles are essential in the nuclear industry but differ in education requirements and job responsibilities.

How much does a nuclear physicist nuclear engineer make?

Nuclear physicists and nuclear engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $120,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills, security clearances, and work in specialized facilities can lead to higher compensation.

Is there a demand for nuclear physicists?

Nuclear physicists are in demand in sectors such as energy, defense, and research institutions, where expertise in nuclear reactions, radiation, and safety protocols is essential. Employment opportunities often require advanced degrees and familiarity with specialized tools like particle accelerators and simulation software. The field offers stable prospects due to ongoing needs for nuclear technology development and safety improvements.
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What job categories do people searching Physicist Nuclear Engineer jobs look for?

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Physicist Nuclear Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physicist Nuclear Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

2027 Graduate - Physicist/Nuclear Engineer - Applied Chemistry and Physics

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you passionate about physics?
Do you want to tackle tough problems, make real-world impact, and drive the future?
If you are graduating with a degree in physics or nuclear engineering, and want to work on high-impact problems, we would love to have you join our team!
We are seeking talented individuals to join a dedicated, multidisciplinary team of physicists, nuclear engineers, materials scientists, and chemists. At APL, you will work directly with experienced scientists and engineers to develop novel detectors, build physics simulations, and push cutting-edge technology into the field.
As a member of our team, you will be among creative thinkers, motivated problem-solvers, and life-long learners that work to strengthen the safety and security of our country.
As a member of our team, you will....
  • Help design, build, test, and evaluate scientific instrumentation to address concerns related to national defense, terrorism, and weapons of mass destruction.
  • Help develop software to run test equipment, and algorithms to detect radiological material.
  • Participate in field studies, to help guide the development of new technology and evaluate performance.
  • Build and run Monte Carlo simulations to model radiation transport.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's in physics, nuclear engineering, or a related technical field, with a strong academic record.
  • Are proficient in at least one of the following programming languages: MATLAB, C/C++, Java, or Python.
  • Have excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and have worked successfully in a team environment.
  • Are able to travel occasionally for field tests, and to attend meetings with government partners and stakeholders.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You will go above and beyond our minimal requirements if you...
  • Have a Master's in physics, nuclear engineering, or a related technical field, with a strong academic record.
  • Have experience performing hands-on laboratory research, including in internships.
  • Have experience performing data analysis and writing scientific reports.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$165,000 Annually

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