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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 ... As our Licensing Engineer you will provide subject matter expertise in advanced reactor licensing ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... As our Licensing Engineer you will provide subject matter expertise in advanced reactor licensing ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... As our Licensing Engineer you will provide subject matter expertise in advanced reactor licensing ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Develop and implement project licensing plans for advanced reactor technology development and ...

With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K ... Develop and implement project licensing plans for advanced reactor technology development and ...

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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 Jun 14, 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 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.
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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,486 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Licensing Engineer-Lynchburg,Virginia

BWX Technologies

Big Island, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 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 . Headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, BWXT is a 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 .
A pipeline or evergreen requisition means that the job description does not represent a current opening , but may be used to identify future candidates with skills and experience for frequent, critical-need positions. By applying, you are providing BWXT with consent to contact you for future openings of similar qualifications.
Location: Onsite in Lynchburg, VA or Remote
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 required 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.
BWXT is People Strong, Innovation Driven - be part of BWXT's innovation hub. BWXT's Advanced Technologies (AT) group researches, designs, and develops innovative new nuclear reactors, nuclear rocket propulsion systems, and radioisotope production systems for both internal and external customers.
If you are looking for a career where your experience is valued, innovative thinking is fostered, and barrier-free teamwork is embraced every day, then this opportunity is for you.
Position Overview:
As our Licensing Engineer you will provide subject matter expertise in advanced reactor licensing and lead the development of content to support regulatory engagements related to BWXT AT's commercial reactor technology programs. You will collaborate closely with engineering disciplines, commercialization and business development teams, and project personnel to execute licensing plans for BWXT AT and our customers. Your goal will be to ensure that regulatory requirements are identified and integrated into our technology and projects, aligning with established program regulatory strategies.
Location:
On-site in Lynchburg, VA or Remote
Your Day to Day as a Licensing Engineer:
  • Support the development and implementation of project licensing plans for advanced reactor technology development and delivery, primarily focused on the U.S. commercial regulatory framework. This may involve aspects such as nuclear safety, nuclear security, emergency planning, reactor design and analysis, code development and qualification, financial and environmental law, and safeguards.
  • Create licensing and regulatory deliverables, including technical and topical reports, license application content, and other documents for regulatory engagement and review.
  • Implement regulatory strategies and approaches to address key technical and programmatic issues related to BWXT AT's reactor technology development, leading efforts to resolve these matters.
  • Support the development and defense of the licensing basis for one or more reactor technologies and associated customer projects.
  • Collaborate with engineering teams to develop technical design bases and integrate regulatory requirements into reactor technology.
  • Support the creation of testing programs to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Lead regulatory discussions on technical and programmatic issues in line with program plans.
  • Work with project management teams to develop budgets and schedules that achieve regulatory outcomes.
  • Facilitate communication with internal and external stakeholders concerning the execution of licensing activities and program plans.
  • Perform general office duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
  • A minimum of a bachelor's degree in engineering is required (Nuclear, mechanical, civil, environmental engineering).
  • A minimum of four (4) years of experience in nuclear licensing and regulatory matters within a U.S. framework (NRC or DOE) is highly preferred.
  • Must have experience in the design, evaluation, and technological development of nuclear systems.
  • Must demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly, concisely, accurately, and timely in both written and verbal formats.
  • Must have proven capacity to develop effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, showcasing a collaborative team-oriented approach.
  • Must have exceptional interpersonal skills necessary to manage simultaneous licensing activities across various stakeholders.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and/or Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Subject matter expertise in one or more areas (e.g., safety analysis, ASME code implementation, radiation safety) is preferred.
  • Experience specific to advanced reactor and new nuclear technology licensing and engineering is preferred.

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 - $136,000.00
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 $136,000.00 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.
**Relocation assistance will be provided to those who qualify*
**BWXT offers a full range of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, 401K, flexible work schedule, vacation/holiday, company-wide shutdowns, and more!
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.
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.
Nearest Major Market: Lynchburg
Nearest Secondary Market: Virginia
Job Segment: Nuclear Engineering, Defense, DoD, Compliance, Manufacturing Engineer, Engineering, Government, Legal

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