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Reactor Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Mid Nuclear Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$101K - $121K/yr

This includes, but not limited to, nuclear engineering and sub-disciplines of thermo- hydraulics, seismic / earthquake, physics, computational science, and fission reactor engineer. Job Requirements ...

Senior Nuclear Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

This includes, but not limited to, nuclear engineering and sub-disciplines of thermo- hydraulics, seismic / earthquake, physics, computational science, and fission reactor engineer. Job Requirements ...

Supv Nuclear Engineering

Mineral, VA

$143K - $171K/yr

Professional Engineering (PE) license, shift technical advisor (STA) qualification or Senior reactor operator (SRO license is preferred) * Nuclear station engineering experience is highly desired

Supv Nuclear Engineering

Mineral, VA · On-site

$143K - $171K/yr

Professional Engineering (PE) license, shift technical advisor (STA) qualification or Senior reactor operator (SRO license is preferred) * Nuclear station engineering experience is highly desired

Nuclear Engineer - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$104K - $124K/yr

Have knowledge of nuclear engineering and sub-disciplines of thermo-hydraulics, seismic or earthquake, physics, computational science, and fission reactor engineering. * Oversee and manage teams ...

Nuclear Engineer - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$104K - $124K/yr

Have knowledge of nuclear engineering and sub-disciplines of thermo-hydraulics, seismic or earthquake, physics, computational science, and fission reactor engineering. * Oversee and manage teams ...

Nuclear Engineer - Mid

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Fission reactor engineering. Desired qualifications: * Understanding of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or missile programs. * Work experience at a national-level agency. * Demonstrated ...

Nuclear Engineer - Mid

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Fission reactor engineering. Desired qualifications: * Understanding of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or missile programs. * Work experience at a national-level agency. * Demonstrated ...

The Networks, Software, and Cybersecurity (NSC) section of the Propulsion & Reactor Engineering Planning Yard (PREPY) is seeking an engineering leader to drive our system development, qualification ...

Operation Integration Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$101K - $136K/yr

Support reactor simulator development, to include interfacing with multiple organizations and ... A bachelor's degree in engineering or physics is required. * A minimum of four (4) years of ...

Operation Integration Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$101K - $136K/yr

Support reactor simulator development, to include interfacing with multiple organizations and ... A bachelor's degree in engineering or physics is required. * A minimum of four (4) years of ...

Operation Integration Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$101K - $136K/yr

Support reactor simulator development, to include interfacing with multiple organizations and ... A bachelor's degree in engineering or physics is required. * A minimum of four (4) years of ...

The Networks, Software, and Cybersecurity (NSC) section of the Propulsion & Reactor Engineering Planning Yard (PREPY) is seeking an engineering leader to drive our system development, qualification ...

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Reactor Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$59K

$110.7K

$201.3K

How much do reactor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for reactor engineer in Virginia is $110,674.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Reactor Engineers?

Reactor Engineers are professionals who design, operate, and maintain nuclear reactors. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of reactors used for power generation, research, or medical purposes. Their work involves monitoring reactor systems, conducting safety assessments, and developing procedures to prevent accidents. Reactor Engineers also analyze reactor performance data and collaborate with other engineers and scientists to optimize reactor operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Reactor Engineers during routine operations and how are they addressed?

Reactor Engineers often encounter challenges such as maintaining reactor stability, troubleshooting instrumentation issues, and ensuring compliance with strict safety protocols. These challenges are typically managed through continuous monitoring, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams (including safety, operations, and maintenance personnel), and adherence to established procedures. Proactive communication and regular training enable Reactor Engineers to respond effectively to unexpected events and maintain optimal reactor performance.

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

To thrive as a Reactor Engineer, you need a solid background in nuclear engineering, reactor physics, and safety protocols, typically supported by a degree in nuclear engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software, reactor monitoring systems, and safety certification such as Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) or Professional Engineering (PE) is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you solve complex technical problems and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant operation of nuclear reactors, which is critical for both safety and energy production.

What is the difference between Reactor Engineer vs Nuclear Engineer?

AspectReactor EngineerNuclear Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Nuclear Engineering or related field; often requires licensing or certificationBachelor's or higher in Nuclear Engineering; may also require licensing
Work EnvironmentDesign, operate, and maintain nuclear reactors, often in power plants or research facilitiesResearch, develop, and improve nuclear systems, including reactors and radiation safety
Industry UsagePrimarily in power generation, naval propulsion, and research reactorsResearch institutions, government agencies, and industry R&D

Reactor Engineers focus on the operation and safety of nuclear reactors, ensuring they run efficiently and safely. Nuclear Engineers have a broader scope, including research, development, and design of nuclear systems. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but Reactor Engineers are more hands-on with reactor operation, while Nuclear Engineers often work on innovation and system improvements.

Infographic showing various Reactor Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,674 per year, or $53.2 per hour.
Mid Nuclear Engineer with Security Clearance

Mid Nuclear Engineer with Security Clearance

Prescient Edge

Herndon, VA

$101K - $121K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Prescient Edge is seeking a Mid. Nuclear Engineer to support a federal government client. Benefits: At Prescient Edge, we believe that acting with integrity and serving our employees is the key to everyone's success.

To that end, we provide employees with a best-in-class benefits package that includes: * A competitive salary with performance bonus opportunities. * Comprehensive healthcare benefits, including medical, vision, dental, and orthodontia coverage. * A substantial retirement plan with no vesting schedule.

Career development opportunities, including on-the-job training, tuition reimbursement, and networking. * A positive work environment where employees are respected, supported, and engaged. Description: * Supports defense analytical requirements with enhanced scientific engineering research, reverse engineering analysis/ characterizations, facility and vulnerability assessments on foreign nuclear capabilities.

* This includes, but not limited to, nuclear engineering and sub-disciplines of thermo- hydraulics, seismic / earthquake, physics, computational science, and fission reactor engineer. Job Requirements Desired experience: * Minimum 8 years of experience related to the specific labor category with at least a portion of the experience within the last 2 years. Desired education: * Bachelor's degree related to the labor category from a college or university accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S.

Department of Education. Security Clearance: * Security clearance required TS/SCI with CI POLY or the ability to obtain CI POLY. Location: * Reston, VA.

Prescient Edge is a Veteran-Owned Small Business (VOSB) founded as a counterintelligence (CI) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT) company in 2008. We are a global operations and solutions integrator delivering full-spectrum intelligence analysis support, training, security, and RD&E support solutions to the Department of Defense and throughout the intelligence community. Prescient Edge is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO).

All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic that is protected by law. We strive to foster equity and inclusion throughout our organization because we believe that diversity of thought is critical for creating a safe and engaging work environment while also enabling the organization's success.


Prescient Edge logo

About Prescient Edge

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Prescient Edge is a prominent name in the global security industry, based out of McLean, VA, US. Established with the primary mission of harnessing science and technology for safety and security purposes, the company specializes in providing a wide range of products and services. This includes research and development, consulting, global operations support, intelligence evaluation, and advanced data solutions. These offerings make Prescient Edge an integral factor in national defense and commercial innovations.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

2008

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