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Reactor Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Serve as the executive owner of the licensing basis for one or more reactor technologies, providing ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Serve as the executive owner of the licensing basis for one or more reactor technologies, providing ...

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Reactor Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$21

$29

How much do reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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.

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 in a nuclear power plant environment.

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 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. They must pass licensing exams administered by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission or relevant authorities, which test knowledge of reactor systems, safety procedures, and regulations.

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 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 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 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,486 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Research and Test Reactor Quality Control Engineer

BWX Technologies

Lynchburg, VA • On-site

$76K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 10 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

At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers. Our company supplies precision manufactured components, services and fuel for the commercial nuclear power industry across four continents. Our joint ventures provide environmental restoration and operations management at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical radioisotope production in North America and microreactors for various defense and space applications. For more information, visit www.bwxt.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.
Welcome to BWXT
We believe in empowering our employees and cultivating a dynamic workplace that fosters growth and collaboration. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find opportunities to challenge yourself, learn from seasoned experts, and contribute to nuclear innovation. We require a diverse range of skills to support our work in the markets that drive our business and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life stages who are passionate about making a difference.
Position Overview:
The RTR Quality Control Engineer provides direct floor support to the UPRR Research and Test Reactors Quality Control team. This role works closely with the QC FLM, Quality Assurance, Process Engineering, and Operations to ensure effective inspection practices and overall quality compliance.
Location:
On-site in Lynchburg, Virginia
Your Day to Day as a Research and Test Reactor Quality Control Engineer:
  • Perform dimensional inspections and non-destructive testing (NDT) across assigned product lines.
  • Develop, document, and maintain inspection methods that ensure components meet design and contract requirements.
  • Support qualification, troubleshooting, and improvement of inspection equipment and processes.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives within quality control and inspection workflows.
  • Conduct internal audits and support customer audits and regulatory reviews.
  • Provide technical input for proposals, development efforts, and specification reviews.
  • Participate in incident investigations and support root-cause analysis.
  • Prepare reports, change requests, specifications, and safety evaluations.
  • Train and mentor inspectors to ensure consistent application of quality standards.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Physics.
  • At least 2 years of relevant experience.
  • Capable of developing processes, procedures, and equipment specifications based upon customer specifications.
  • Possess strong technical writing skills.
  • Demonstrate superior written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment to anticipate and address complex technical issues.
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) clearance.

Preferred Additional Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with dimensional inspections.
  • Quality control experience.

What We Offer:
  • Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
  • 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: $76,000 - $119,000
The base salary range for this position in Virginia (US-VA) at the start of employment is expected to be between $76,000 and $119,000 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.
As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and related entities ("BWXT" or the "Company") complies with all federal, state, and local laws and customer requirements regarding health and safety protocols. As such, all BWXT new hires will be required to adhere to applicable Company health and safety requirements within the workplace as a condition of employment.
All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Selected applicants are required to successfully complete a pre-employment check and drug screening. In addition, the position may require the ability to obtain and maintain applicable federal eligibility requirements for access to classified/sensitive information or matter which involves an extensive criminal and financial background investigation, drug test, previous employment, and 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.
BWX Technologies, Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries (BWXT) is not responsible for and does not accept any liability for fees or other costs associated with resumes or candidates presented by recruiters or employment agencies, unless a binding, written recruitment agreement between BWXT and the recruiter or agency exists prior to the presentation of candidates or resumes to BWXT and includes the specific services, job openings, and fees to be paid ("Agreement"). BWXT may consider any candidate for whom a recruiter or agency has submitted an unsolicited resume and explicitly reserves the right to hire such candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency unless an Agreement is in place prior to presentation and such Agreement explicitly encompasses the job opening for which such fees or costs are sought. An email, verbal or other informal contact with any person within BWXT will not create a binding agreement. Agencies or recruiters without an Agreement are directed not to contact any hiring managers of BWXT with recruiting inquiries or resumes. Recruiters and agencies interested in partnering with BWXT may contact BWXT's Talent Acquisition team at talent_acquisition@bwxt.com.

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