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Reactor Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

S. Department of Energy (DOE) for its Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, Natrium is ... Operating with broad autonomy, this position exercises independent judgment in resolving complex ...

S. Department of Energy (DOE) for its Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, Natrium is ... Operating with broad autonomy, this position exercises independent judgment in resolving complex ...

S. Department of Energy (DOE) for its Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, Natrium is ... Operating with broad autonomy, this position exercises independent judgment in resolving complex ...

... operating and regulating the nuclear reactors and power plants that drive the most advanced fleet ... Reactor physics * Materials development * Component design such as steam generators, pumps and ...

S. Department of Energy (DOE) for its Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, Natrium is ... Operating with broad autonomy, this position exercises independent judgment in resolving complex ...

... operators, project stakeholders, and regulatory authorities. This role requires knowledge and experience in relevant advanced non-light water reactor programmatic topic areas such as physical and ...

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Reactor Operator information

See Washington salary details

$5

$24

$33

How much do reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for reactor operator in Washington is $24.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $25.87 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 Washington? The most popular types of Reactor Operator jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Reactor Operator jobs in Washington? For Reactor Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Reactor Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Reactor Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Reactor Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Reactor Operator job openings:
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Licensing Engineer for New Reactor Projects and Strategy

X Energy LLC

Rockville, MD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

X-energy LLC conducts a thorough recruiting process and will never issue offers without interview to discuss qualifications and responsibilities. All applications will be submitted via our company career page, www.x-energy.com/careers/. We will never ask you to provide payment information as part of the recruiting process. If anyone claiming to represent X-energy directs you in a manner otherwise, please contact us at www.x-energy.com/contact-us.

Job Description

Join X-energy's growing reactor licensing team focused on jumpstarting new small modular reactor licensing projects and setting strategic licensing approaches for first-of-a-kind advanced reactor deployment. Licensing Engineers at X-energy lead new application preparation, drive licensing strategy, manage regulatory engagement with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and coordinate the complex business, licensing, and technical activities necessary to further the deployment of X-energy reactors globally.
Licensing Engineers are engaged in environmental licensing, nuclear safety, nuclear security, emergency planning, safeguards, and regulatory compliance for X-energy's advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor technology. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to first-of-a-kind advanced reactor projects that define industry-best licensing practices.


Job Profile Tasks/Responsibilities:

Licensing Engineers are responsible for activities including, but not limited to, the following:

  • Supporting licensing activities associated with reactor certifications, permits, and licenses, including the preparation of regulatory engagement plans, applications, white papers, technical reports, and topical reports
  • Ensuring compliance with NRC regulations and guidance
  • Participating in and presenting at public meetings, regulatory audits, and business proposals
  • Researching and developing strategic proposals to address novel technical and licensing challenges
  • Developing internal guidance, processes, and templates to improve and implement licensing strategies
  • Working as part of a team to deliver timely and high-quality licensing products that effectively communicate complex technical and regulatory positions
  • Supporting planning and executing the X-energy business and licensing strategy
  • Participating in nuclear industry working groups

Job Profile Minimum Qualifications

  • All Levels: Bachelor's degree in engineering (e.g., mechanical, nuclear, chemical, or electrical engineering), science (e.g., environmental science, physics, or chemistry), or other related area
  • Level I: Typically, up to two years of relevant technical or licensing experience
    • Understanding of nuclear reactor design and operation
    • Project support experience, including following schedules; meeting deadlines; and working as part of a team
  • Level II: Typically, three years of relevant technical or licensing experience
    • Familiarity with NRC or DOE reactor projects and regulatory processes
    • Understanding of nuclear reactor design and operation
    • Project management experience, including following schedules; meeting deadlines; and working as part of a team
  • Level III: Typically, five years of relevant technical or licensing experience
    • Familiarity with NRC or DOE reactor projects and regulatory processes
    • Understanding of nuclear reactor design and operation
    • Project management experience, including following schedules; meeting deadlines; and working as part of a team

Preferred Skills

Candidates for this role would ideally have knowledge or experience in one or more of the following areas, commensurate with their educational and professional background:

  • Experience with U.S. NRC construction permit and operating license application preparation and/or reviews
  • Knowledge of high-temperature gas reactor technologies and/or first-of-a-kind nuclear technologies
  • Knowledge of small modular reactor technical and licensing considerations
  • Knowledge of U.S. NRC and/or U.S. DOE regulatory requirements for reactor licensing
  • Knowledge of international nuclear reactor licensing frameworks
  • Experience with front-end loading project planning
  • Ability to analyze and interpret regulatory requirements, legislation, and policy documents

Location: 530 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD

Hours: 8:00am-5:00pm, Mon-Fri

Work Arrangement: 4 Days Onsite per Week

Compensation

As required by Maryland and other applicable state law, X Energy, LLC (X-energy) lists the expected compensation range for a publicly advertised job opportunity based upon the job requirements (e.g. education/training, experience, skill sets, etc.). Individual candidates who meet the job requirements for the posted position will be offered a salary within this range based on their respective levels of education/training, experience, and other qualifications unique to them. Salary ranges may vary based on the specific office location and region referenced in the posting to take into consideration differences in cost of living and may not be reflective of all regions. Please note that compensation ranges listed for US job postings reflect base salary only and do not include benefits or other incentives.

A reasonable estimate for this position at the level of experience required is:

Level I: $81,314-$135,524 / Level II: $88,725-$147,875 / Level III: $103,575- $172,625

Position Job Classification

Full time - Exempt

Benefits

X Energy, LLC offers a robust benefits package that includes a 401K plan with an employer match, Medical/Dental /Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Paid Time Off, and a Tuition Reimbursement/Professional Development policy that supports the continuing education of our employees.

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

X Energy, LLC participates in E-Verify. Please visit the links below for more information about E-Verify and the protection of your Right to Work.

Right To Work Link: If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away (e-verify.gov)

E-Verify Participation Link: E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish