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Reactor Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Lothian, MD · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Calvert Cliffs Generating Station located in Lusby, MD. Primary Purpose of ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Dunkirk, MD · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Calvert Cliffs Generating Station located in Lusby, MD. Primary Purpose of ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Owings, MD · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Calvert Cliffs Generating Station located in Lusby, MD. Primary Purpose of ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Aquasco, MD · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Calvert Cliffs Generating Station located in Lusby, MD. Primary Purpose of ...

Bechtel

Delivery Task Manager, TFF

Reston, VA

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 ...

Bechtel

Delivery Task Manager, E-Houses

Reston, VA

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Naval Reactors Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$4.0K/mo

... 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 ...

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All JobsReactor Operator JobsReactor Operator Jobs in Washington

Reactor Operator information

See Washington salary details

$5

$24

$33

How much do reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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:
What are popular job titles related to Reactor Operator jobs in WA? For Reactor Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reactor Operator job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,963 per year, or $25 per hour.

Reactor Operator

Sensor Science Division | NIST

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$70K/yr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

NIST is seeking a Reactor Operator to maintain, test, and operate the nuclear reactor at the NCNR, providing world-class neutron measurement capabilities to researchers from industry, academia, and government. The work of this role directly enables critical scientific breakthroughs advancing economic and technical excellence in the U.S.
This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

Qualifications:To qualify for the ZT-III, applicants must have one year (52 Weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to a GS-08 grade level (ZTII for NIST employees) in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as:
  • Experience assisting or providing technical support with regular routine procedures, operations, or maintenance of a nuclear facility.

OR

Two full years of graduate education

OR

A master's degree related to the position

OR

A combination of education and experience


To qualify for the ZT-IV, applicants must have one year (52 Weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to a GS-10 grade level (ZT-III for NIST employees) in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as:
  • Experience performing routine operations or equipment maintenance on a nuclear facility with little supervision
And
  • Experience identifying abnormal conditions and performing complex or specialized maintenance activities
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.
If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant ReconsiderationEducation:This position allows applicants to qualify with education. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However, an official copy will be required before a final offer of employment.
Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with course-by-course listing) is required with your application.Employment Type: OTHER

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