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Reactor Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Rockford, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor ... Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical ...

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$59.5K

$111.6K

$203K

How much do reactor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for reactor engineer in the United States is $111,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $132,500.00 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.

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Reactor Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reactor Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,632 per year, or $53.7 per hour.
Advanced Reactor Nuclear Engineer

Advanced Reactor Nuclear Engineer

Idaho National Laboratory

Idaho Falls, ID • On-site

$114K - $234K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Idaho National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description


Idaho National Laboratory is hiring an Advanced Reactor Nuclear Engineer to work on our Reactor Physics and Shielding team. Our team works a 9x80 schedule located out of our Research and Education Campus in Idaho Falls with every other Friday off.
As a Nuclear Engineer at INL, you'll be at the forefront of shaping the future of nuclear energy, leveraging cutting-edge research to develop the next generation of reactors and systems that power our nation and beyond. Your work will directly contribute to INL's legacy of innovation, from advancing space nuclear systems to modernizing critical infrastructure that secures our energy future. You'll explore revolutionary materials and technologies that push the boundaries of what's possible, ensuring the U.S. remains a leader in nuclear advancements. Collaborating with top scientists, you'll tackle complex technical challenges, from fuel cycle optimization to nonproliferation solutions, safeguarding America's scientific edge. By joining our team, you'll help drive INL's mission to pioneering solutions that redefine energy, national security, and technological excellence.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Develop experimental requirements or packaging and handling requirements for spent nuclear fuel.
  • Apply advanced nuclear engineering design principles, theories, and concepts.
  • Use best practices in design methodologies to develop and validate designs.
  • Document designs to ensure conformance with requirements and standards.
  • Establish testing, inspection, and quality requirements.
  • Perform integrated analyses to meet experimental, storage, transportation, disposal, and facility safety requirements.
  • Defend analytical methods and results in reviews.
  • Support project/program interactions with sponsors, operations, and engineering organizations.
  • Develop and improve physics-based mathematical models and analysis methods.
  • Prepare reports and peer-reviewed publications.
  • Represent programs through technical presentations and at conferences.
  • Participate in professional development activities.
  • Perform analyses of irradiation experiments and conduct research supporting nuclear processes.
  • Support transformational fuel qualification efforts.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Level 3: Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program and 5 years of relevant experience; or an advanced degree (MS, PhD) and 2 years of relevant experience.
  • Level 4: Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program and 9 years of relevant experience; or a Master's of Science in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program and 6 years of relevant experience; or a PhD in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program and 4 years of relevant experience.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE "Q" security clearance.
  • Knowledge of the following computer codes: MCNP6, SCALE6 (includes KENO, ORIGEN, TRITON, MAVRIC), OpenMC, Seprent, and the MOOSE-based code, Griffin.
  • Python, modern FORTRAN, C++, and other languages.
  • Previous experience performing research (graduate school, industry, or national lab) in advanced reactor design and multi-physics analysis.

The ideal candidate will possess:
  • Advanced degree in Nuclear Engineering or a directly related engineering field from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • Experience in nuclear fuels and materials, reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, core design, and analysis tools/methods.

Job Information:
  • The pay range for this position is: Level 3 ($95,256 - $195,288) / Level 4 ($114,360 - $234,336). At Idaho National Laboratory compensation decisions are determined using factors such as education, relevant experience, and other credentials.
  • Multi-Level: This is a multi-level posting and you will be placed at the appropriate level dependent on depth and breadth of proven experience and skills.
  • TDP: This is a testing designated position; you will be required to submit to a pre-employment drug screen and periodic drug testing throughout the term of your employment.

Physical Requirements:
While performing the duties of this classification, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, bend, and work in an office and field/laboratory environment. The job requires hand/finger dexterity to keyboard or type, handle materials, manipulate tools, and reach with hands and arms. The job requires operation of job-related equipment and driving a vehicle. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 35 pounds without assistance. Sufficient visual acuity and hearing capacity to perform the essential functions and interact with the public is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
About Us
Benefits and Relocation
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 401(k) with a 4.2% employer contribution and up to 4.8% match (regular positions) or self-contribute access (postdoctoral positions)
  • Paid time off (personal leave)
  • Employee Education Program (tuition assistance for eligible positions)
  • Comprehensive Relocation Package
  • Benefit eligibility subject to multiple factors, including employment status and position classification.

At this time, BEA will not sponsor any H1-B visas obtained outside of the United States of America (U.S.A.), including consular visas.
INL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's mission in nuclear energy research, science, and national defense. With more than 6,300 scientists, researchers, and support staff, the laboratory works with national and international governments, universities and industry partners to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.
INL Mission:
Our mission is to discover, demonstrate and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions, other clean energy options and critical infrastructure.
INL Vision:
Our vision is to change the world's energy future and secure our nation's critical infrastructure.
Selective Service Requirements:
To be eligible for employment at INL males born after December 31, 1959 must have registered with the Selective Service System (SSS). For more information see www.sss.gov.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of INL to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
Reasonable Accommodation:
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
Other Information:
When applying to positions please provide a resume and answer all questions on the following screens. Applicants, who fail to provide a resume or answer the questions, may be deemed ineligible for consideration.
INL does not accept resumes from third party vendors unsolicited.

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About Idaho National Laboratory

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Idaho National Laboratory is a leading multi-disciplinary national laboratory dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Energy's missions in nuclear and energy research, science, and national defence. Located in Idaho Falls, ID, US, it operates under the management of Battelle Energy Alliance. Since its inception in 1949, the lab has remained at the forefront of nuclear energy innovations and advancements, providing critical scientific and technological inputs to support national priorities. Guided by its commitment to excellence, innovative research, collaborative partnerships, and integrity, the lab continues to play a vital role in driving America's nuclear and energy future.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Idaho Falls, ID, US

Year founded

1949

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