1

Reactor Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$67K - $91K/yr

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... As our Reactor Operations Engineer, you will provide operational insights and guidance to design ...

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... As our Reactor Operations Engineer, you will provide operational insights and guidance to design ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... As our Reactor Operations Engineer , you will provide operational insights and guidance to design ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... As our Reactor Operations Engineer , you will provide operational insights and guidance to design ...

Reactor Operations Engineer

Lynchburg, VA

$67K - $91K/yr

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... As our Reactor Operations Engineer , you will provide operational insights and guidance to design ...

Reactor Operator (RO) or Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) * Data center Critical Facility Engineer Preferred Qualifications * Experience performing electrical, mechanical, and control system operations ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Reactor Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$21

$29

How much do reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for reactor operator in Virginia is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reactor operator?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a reactor operator?

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.

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.

How do you become a reactor operator?

To become a reactor operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training and on-the-job experience in nuclear power plants. Many states require passing licensing exams from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and obtaining a reactor operator license, which involves meeting experience requirements and demonstrating knowledge of nuclear plant operations.

How much money do reactor operators make?

Reactor operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and the specific facility. They often require specialized training, certifications, and work in shifts within nuclear power plants or research reactors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia?

For Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Reactor Operator jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Reactor Operator jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Reactor Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Reactor Operator jobs in VA?

For Reactor Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Reactor Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,486 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Reactor Operations Engineer

BWX Technologies, Inc.

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

$86 - $157/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


BWX Technologies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Overview

As our Reactor Operations Engineer, you will provide operational insights and guidance to design engineers to ensure the development of reactor technologies employ operational principals. This position will participate in development of reactor plant operating strategies, concepts, and procedures, and will be deeply embedded with all aspects of reactor design and development activities to ensure systems integration and functionality meet the requirements for safe, efficient, and reliable operations. This role will also provide support to terrestrial, maritime, microreactor, and space reactor projects.

Location

On-site in Lynchburg, VA at the Advanced Technologies Office

Your Day to Day as an Reactor Operations Engineer
  • Lead the development and implementation of reactor operating strategies.
  • Lead the development of the reactor concept of operations to describe the use of the system from the perspective of the reactor operator, encompassing all modes of operation.
  • Lead the preparation of reactor operating procedures, including normal and off-normal conditions and events, surveillance procedures, alarm response procedures, etc.
  • Lead the development and preparation of nuclear operations and engineering training materials.
  • Integrate and coordinate across disciplines to implement operating approaches for safe, efficient, and reliable plant operations.
  • Support reactor simulator development, to include interfacing with multiple organizations and contractors, aggregating design data, and developing scenarios for evaluations.
  • Support development of control algorithms for semi-autonomous and/or manual operations.
  • Support the evaluation of integrated plant response to various events, accidents, and malfunctions.
  • Support the design of plant control and monitoring interfaces, including the Human Machine Interface in the control room as well as other operator interfaces.
  • Develop operations training material for internal and external customer use.
  • Collaborate with designers for optimized maintainability of the systems.
  • Participate in design reviews and provide feedback from an operations and maintenance perspective.
Required Qualifications
  • A bachelor’s degree in engineering or physics is required.
  • A minimum of four (4) years of experience in nuclear operations or engineering is required; on-the-job training in nuclear operations does not count toward the experience requirement.
  • Must be familiar with the interrelationships and dependencies of reactor systems, encompassing nuclear, mechanical, I&C and electrical systems – and their response as an integrated power plant system.
  • Must be familiar with the operation and maintenance of reactor equipment.
  • Must have demonstrated ability to collaborate through influence within matrixed organizations.
  • Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance, whichever is required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • SRO or RO license from a civilian nuclear power plant, or EWS/EOOW qualification from the U.S. Navy.
  • Prior experience with the development and implementation of control schemes for nuclear plant operations in normal and off-normal conditions.
  • Nuclear Operations Training experience.
  • Nuclear Reactor Simulator Design and maintenance experience.
  • Familiarity with high temperature gas reactor technologies.
  • Experience in the design of fluid systems.
  • Experience in the design of I&C systems.
  • Experience in the design of electrical systems.
  • Experience working with U.S. Government customer (e.g., DOD, DOE, NASA).
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • Flexible work schedules and paid time off to promote a healthy work-life balance.
  • Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
  • An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
  • The chance to be part of a mission-driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
  • Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!

Pay: $86,000.00- $157,000.00

The base salary range for this position in Virginia (US-VA) at the start of employment is expected to be between $86,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year. However, the base salary offered is based on local job market factors, and may vary further depending on factors specific to the selected job candidate, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to these considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, such as an annual cash incentive in addition to a full range of medical, retirement, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided at such time the selected job candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, the selected job candidate will be employed 'at-will,’ unless employed at a location and in a position subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The company further reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment, compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and other market factors.

Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Position requires U.S. citizenship with no dual citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy (DOE) security clearance which involves an extensive criminal and financial background investigation, drug test and previous employment reference verifications.

BWXT is committed to the concept of Equal Employment Opportunity. We have established procedures to ensure that all personnel actions such as recruitment, compensation, career development, benefits, company-sponsored training and social recreational programs are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, protected veteran or other protected status.

Nearest Major Market: Lynchburg

Nearest Secondary Market: Virginia

Job Segment: Operations Manager, Defense, DoD, Machinist, Nuclear Engineering, Operations, Government, Manufacturing, Engineering

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What BWX Technologies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom