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Reactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

Last Energy is seeking an experienced Reactor Operator to support the commissioning, startup, and safe operation of our PWR-5 test reactor. This is a ground-floor opportunity to help establish the ...

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

Last Energy is seeking an experienced Reactor Operator to support the commissioning, startup, and safe operation of our PWR-5 test reactor. This is a ground-floor opportunity to help establish the ...

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX

Last Energy is seeking an experienced Reactor Operator to support the commissioning, startup, and safe operation of our PWR-5 test reactor. This is a ground-floor opportunity to help establish the ...

Boydcorp

Reactor Operator

Magnolia, AR

Reactor Operator Group: Incumbents Name: Business/Service Unit: Prepared By: Jeffery Barnard Department: Production Review Date: August 20, 2024 Reports To: Production Crew Leader GENERAL PURPOSE: (A ...

Orion Talent

Senior Reactor Operator

Braceville, IL · On-site

They will also be trained to directly supervise bargaining unit reactor operators and equipment operators generally. Locations: Clinton, Braceville, and Morris, IL -Stations. Must-Have Skills ...

Vanguard Soap

Reactor Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

Position Summary The Reactor Operator is responsible for safely manufacturing liquid soap and personal care products by accurately blending raw materials according to approved formulas and batch ...

Vanguard Soap

Reactor Operator

Memphis, TN

Position Summary The Reactor Operator is responsible for safely manufacturing liquid soap and personal care products by accurately blending raw materials according to approved formulas and batch ...

Vanguard Soap

Reactor Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

Position Summary The Reactor Operator is responsible for safely manufacturing liquid soap and personal care products by accurately blending raw materials according to approved formulas and batch ...

Aalo Atomics

Reactor Operator

Idaho Falls, ID · On-site

... reactor leveraging cutting-edge safety, modularity, and efficiency. Based in Austin, TX, we're ... Contribute to development and maintenance of Normal/Abnormal/Emergency Operating Procedures and ...

NextEra Energy

Reactor Operator - License Class

IA · On-site

Position Specific Description NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Inc. is seeking Reactor Operators for our Duane Arnold Energy Center. This single unit BWR nuclear facility ...

Third Coast

Reactor Operator

Pearland, TX · On-site

$30/hr

We are seeking a dedicated and safety-focused Reactor Operator to join our team at Third Coast. Reporting to the Reaction Supervisor, this role is vital to the safe and efficient operation of our ...

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All JobsReactor Operator Jobs

Reactor Operator information

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$5

$22

$29

How much do reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for reactor operator in the United States is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are reactor operators?

Reactor operators are highly trained professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring nuclear reactors in power plants or research facilities. They ensure the reactor operates safely and efficiently by adjusting controls, monitoring instruments, and following strict safety protocols. Reactor operators respond to abnormal conditions, conduct routine inspections, and are prepared to initiate emergency shutdowns if necessary. Their work is critical for maintaining safe and reliable nuclear energy production.

What is the difference between Reactor Operator vs Nuclear Plant Technician?

AspectReactor OperatorNuclear Plant Technician
CredentialsReactor Operator license, technical trainingTechnical certifications, plant-specific training
Work EnvironmentControl room, reactor areaEquipment maintenance, monitoring systems
Job FocusOperating reactor systems, safety protocolsMaintaining equipment, troubleshooting
Industry UsagePower plants, nuclear facilitiesPower plants, nuclear facilities

Reactor Operators primarily focus on controlling and monitoring nuclear reactors, ensuring safety and operational efficiency. Nuclear Plant Technicians support reactor operations through maintenance and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in nuclear power plants, but Reactor Operators have more responsibility for direct reactor control and safety procedures.

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

To thrive as a Reactor Operator, you need a strong understanding of nuclear physics, safety protocols, and operational procedures, often supported by a technical degree and a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) license. Familiarity with control room instrumentation, simulation software, and radiation monitoring systems is essential. Attention to detail, calmness under pressure, and strong communication skills help operators effectively manage complex situations and coordinate with team members. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of nuclear reactors.

What are some common challenges Reactor Operators face during shift work, and how can these be managed?

Reactor Operators often work rotating shifts, which can disrupt sleep patterns and affect work-life balance. Managing fatigue, maintaining focus during long periods of monitoring, and staying vigilant during routine and emergency scenarios are key challenges. Operators can address these by following strict handover procedures, practicing effective stress management, and adhering to regulated rest periods. Teamwork and clear communication with supervisors and other operators are also essential to ensure safe and efficient plant operations.
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Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reactor Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,880 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Reactor Operator

Reactor Operator

Last Energy

Bryan, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Last Energy is seeking an experienced Reactor Operator to support the commissioning, startup, and safe operation of our PWR-5 test reactor. This is a ground-floor opportunity to help establish the operational foundation for a fleet of reactors that will be deployed globally at scale. You will work hands-on with a multidisciplinary team of nuclear engineers, I&C specialists, and plant staff to execute reactor operations safely, reliably, and in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
  • Monitor, operate, and control reactor systems during startup, operation, and shutdown in accordance with approved procedures and technical specifications
  • Execute fueling operations, including fuel handling, loading, core management activities, and associated radiological controls
  • Perform and document routine surveillances, plant walkdowns, and equipment checks to ensure systems remain within operational limits
  • Respond to abnormal and emergency plant conditions; execute abnormal operating procedures (AOPs) and emergency operating procedures (EOPs) as required
  • Support the development, review, and validation of plant operating procedures, especially as the PWR-5 design matures toward commercial deployment
  • Maintain rigorous configuration control and documentation standards consistent with nuclear quality assurance requirements
  • Participate in training, simulator exercises, and qualification programs; support the training of junior operators as applicable
  • Interface with regulatory authorities and support inspections, audits, and licensing activities as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • 2+ years of hands-on reactor operations experience, with demonstrated proficiency in licensed or certified operator duties
  • Experience with pressurized water reactor (PWR) or pool-type reactor operations; BWR experience will also be considered
  • Direct experience supporting fueling operations, including fuel handling and associated radiological and criticality safety controls
  • Strong working knowledge of reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, and plant systems as applied to day-to-day operations
  • Familiarity with nuclear QA programs, technical specifications, and the regulatory framework governing nuclear plant operations (NRC or equivalent)
  • NRC Reactor Operator (RO) or Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license, or equivalent certification (e.g., DOE-facility certification, international equivalent) is preferred
  • Experience with small modular reactors (SMRs), research reactors, or naval reactors is preferred
  • Familiarity with startup and commissioning activities for new reactor facilities is preferred
  • Experience supporting regulatory inspections or participating in licensing submittals is preferred
  • Ability to work effectively in a lean, fast-paced startup environment with a "builder" mindset
  • Proven ability to execute procedures with a rigorous, questioning attitude and high attention to detail

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