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Physicist Nuclear Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Standard Nuclear, Inc.

Nuclear Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

The Nuclear Engineer is responsible for identifying, engaging, and hiring high-quality talent to ... RESPONSIBILITIES Radiation Transport & Reactor Physics Analysis * Develop, run, and validate ...

Standard Nuclear, Inc.

Nuclear Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN

$94K - $112K/yr

The Nuclear Engineer is responsible for identifying, engaging, and hiring high-quality talent to ... RESPONSIBILITIES Radiation Transport & Reactor Physics Analysis * Develop, run, and validate ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$104K - $124K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or Physics, 11+ years of experience Desired certification: Professional Engineering Description Nalley Consulting has an outstanding opportunity for a Nuclear ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$104K - $124K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering or Physics, 11+ years of experience Desired certification: Professional Engineering Description Nalley Consulting has an outstanding opportunity for a Nuclear ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Mid

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, engineering technologies, or a physical science field ... Nuclear engineering * Thermo-hydraulics * Seismic / earthquake * Physics * Computational science

US Department of the Navy

$88K/yr

You will serve as a NUCLEAR ENGINEER in the NUCLEAR MATERIAL ORDERING BRANCH of PEARL HARBOR NSY ... physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Mid

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, engineering technologies, or a physical science field ... Nuclear engineering * Thermo-hydraulics * Seismic / earthquake * Physics * Computational science

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$88K/yr

You will serve as a NUCLEAR ENGINEER in the NUCLEAR MATERIAL ORDERING BRANCH of PEARL HARBOR NSY ... physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a ...

Actalent

**Health Physicist**

Maryland Heights, MO

Health Physicist The Senior Health Physicist / Nuclear Engineer implements key elements of the Radiation Protection Program and provides expert radiological support across production, research and ...

Leidos

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

This unique role combines rigorous computational physics, engineering analysis, and all-source ... Nuclear Hardness & Survivability * Analyze the effects of nuclear weapons on facilities ...

Leidos

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

This unique role combines rigorous computational physics, engineering analysis, and all-source ... Nuclear Hardness & Survivability * Analyze the effects of nuclear weapons on facilities ...

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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 Jul 15, 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 jobs can a nuclear physicist do?

A nuclear physicist can work in research and development, nuclear energy production, medical physics, or government agencies, often utilizing skills in data analysis, modeling, and laboratory techniques. They may work in laboratories, power plants, or regulatory environments, sometimes requiring security clearances or specialized certifications.

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.

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 Physicist Nuclear Engineers?

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.

Can a physicist become a nuclear engineer?

A physicist can become a nuclear engineer by gaining specialized knowledge in nuclear systems, often through additional coursework or a master's degree in nuclear engineering. Strong skills in mathematics, physics, and familiarity with nuclear technology and safety protocols are essential for transitioning into this role.

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.

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

Nuclear engineers can earn salaries approaching $500,000 annually, primarily with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles in the industry. Such high compensation is typically found in senior positions, specialized fields, or in industries like energy or defense, often requiring strong technical skills and security clearances.
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Nuclear Engineer

Standard Nuclear, Inc.

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Standard Nuclear is fueling America's nuclear renaissance at industrial scale. Our mission is to deliver the essential building blocks of nuclear power-enabling cost-effective, safe, and secure energy for the world.
The Nuclear Engineer is responsible for identifying, engaging, and hiring high-quality talent to support Standard Nuclear's engineering, manufacturing, and operational growth. This role partners closely with hiring managers to understand technical requirements, develop sourcing strategies, and manage candidates through the full recruiting lifecycle.
This is a hands-on recruiting role focused on building pipelines for specialized technical positions in a competitive market. The Technical Recruiter will proactively source candidates, assess qualifications, and drive hiring processes from initial outreach through offer acceptance. The role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to represent the company effectively to candidates.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Radiation Transport & Reactor Physics Analysis
  • Develop, run, and validate radiation transport and reactor physics models using industry-standard tools such as SCALE, MCNP, Serpent, or equivalent software.
  • Perform neutronics, shielding, dose, and activation analyses to support system design and safety evaluations.
  • Interpret simulation results and provide engineering recommendations to inform design decisions.

Criticality Safety & Fuel Manufacturing Support
  • Conduct criticality safety calculations and analyses for advanced fuel manufacturing modules and material handling scenarios.
  • Support development and review of safety analyses related to fissile material processing and fuel fabrication.
  • Collaborate with operations and engineering teams to integrate criticality safety requirements into process design.

Advanced Nuclear Systems Analysis
  • Support modeling and evaluation of advanced nuclear systems, including propulsion and power applications, through detailed simulation and analysis.
  • Assess system performance, margins, and safety characteristics under nominal and off-nominal conditions.
  • Contribute analytical support to early-stage design trades and technology development efforts.

Technical Documentation & Communication
  • Prepare clear, well-structured technical reports, analyses, and presentations to communicate results to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Support preparation of safety documentation, design reviews, and technical briefings.
  • Maintain organized records of models, assumptions, inputs, and results.

Quality, Safety & Collaboration
  • Perform work in accordance with applicable quality assurance, configuration control, and procedural requirements.
  • Support continuous improvement of modeling practices and analytical workflows.
  • Work in compliance with radiological safety protocols and support operations in radiological environments as required.
  • Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, operations, and safety teams.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Technical Background
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Nuclear Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.

Experience & Skills
  • Demonstrated experience developing and executing radiation transport and reactor physics models using SCALE, MCNP, Serpent, or similar tools.
  • Hands-on experience performing criticality safety calculations and analyses.
  • Proficiency in Python or similar scripting languages for model automation, post-processing, or workflow support.
  • Strong technical writing skills with experience producing engineering reports and presentations.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Additional Experience (Preferred)
  • Advanced knowledge of nuclear fuels, materials, or fuel manufacturing processes.
  • Experience supporting nuclear system design, fuel qualification, or reactor performance evaluations.
  • Familiarity with quality assurance and continuous improvement methodologies in nuclear or regulated environments.
  • Prior experience working in radiological facilities or controlled environments.

BENEFITS
  • Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • Disability and Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Holidays

WORK ENVIRONMENT
This role is based at Standard Nuclear's Pilot Fuel Manufacturing Facility in Oak Ridge, TN.
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.
The position involves office-based analytical work as well as interaction with laboratory, manufacturing, and radiological environments. Occasional travel may be required. All work will be performed in accordance with applicable safety, radiological protection, and quality requirements. Reasonable accommodation will be provided for qualified individuals.
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicants must be U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
. Department of State.

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