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Reactor Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Licensing Assistant

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$59K/yr

Michelle Hayes (OAR/Advanced Reactor Licensing Branch 2). * Mahamoud Jardaneh (MJ) - (OAR/Advanced ... Skill in operating computer equipment sufficient to prepare correspondence, memoranda ...

Nuclear Engineer

Oakton, VA

$99K - $119K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Vienna, VA

$98K - $118K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Elkridge, MD

$97K - $116K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Manassas, VA

$97K - $116K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Deale, MD

$96K - $115K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Montclair, VA

$99K - $118K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Cheverly, MD

$98K - $118K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Cloverly, MD

$96K - $116K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Dunkirk, MD

$97K - $117K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Scaggsville, MD

$96K - $115K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Damascus, MD

$104K - $124K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Darnestown, MD

$98K - $117K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Severn, MD

$109K - $131K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Somerset, MD

$105K - $126K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Occoquan, VA

$97K - $117K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Germantown, MD

$99K - $119K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Merrifield, VA

$98K - $117K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Nuclear Engineer

Adamstown, MD

$91K - $109K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet 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:
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:

Licensing Assistant

USA JOBS

Rockville, MD โ€ข On-site

$59K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

This position is located in Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The supervisors for the vacancies are:
  • Michelle Hayes (OAR/Advanced Reactor Licensing Branch 2).
  • Mahamoud Jardaneh (MJ) - (OAR/Advanced Reactor Licensing Branch 3)
  • Jeff Rady - (OAR/Advanced Reactor Licensing Branch 4)
  • Lizette Roldan-Otero (NMSS/Inspection Licensing Branch 3)
The selectee for the NMSS/Inspection Licensing Branch 3 will work in Arlington, TX. The selectees for OAR will be assigned to Rockville, MD.Qualifications:

To qualify for these positions you must have at least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
For GG-08, one year of specialized experience at the GG-07 level. Experience which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform a wide range of administrative duties such as: Skill in operating computer equipment sufficient to prepare correspondence, memoranda, presentations, and reports in final form. Ability to organize the flow of administrative work, to maintain and organize an adequate filing system, and to locate and assemble material for reports and meetings. Ability to handle multiple, time sensitive tasks. Knowledge of format and clerical procedures in order to proofread documents and arrange a variety of materials from different sources in an organized, workable manner. Experience that provided a working knowledge of the procedures associated with the licensing activities, and familiarity with the materials licensing forms and guidance documents sufficient to administratively process all aspects of licenses or license amendments under close supervision. Experience that provided familiarity and a working knowledge of the materials licensing forms and guidance documents.
For GG-09, one year of specialized experience at the GG-08 level. Experience in a wide range of administrative duties such as: Skill in operating computer equipment sufficient to prepare correspondence, memoranda, presentations, and reports in final form. Ability to organize the flow of administrative work, to maintain and organize an adequate filing system, and to locate and assemble material for reports and meetings. Ability to handle multiple, time sensitive tasks. Knowledge of format and clerical procedures in order to proofread documents and arrange a variety of materials from different sources in an organized, workable manner. Experience that demonstrates a working knowledge of the procedures associated with the licensing activities sufficient to administratively process all aspects of licenses or license amendments under general supervision. Experience that provided familiarity and a working knowledge of the materials licensing forms and guidance documents sufficient to enable timely response to information requests.
For GG-10, one year of specialized experience at the GG-09 level. Experience in a wide range of administrative duties such as: Skill in operating computer equipment sufficient to prepare correspondence, memoranda, presentations, and reports in final form. Ability to organize the flow of administrative work, to maintain and organize an adequate filing system, and to locate and assemble material for reports and meetings. Ability to handle multiple, time sensitive tasks. Experience that demonstrates knowledge of the procedures associated with the licensing ad inspection activities sufficient to administratively process all aspects of licenses or license amendments. Experience that provided knowledge of the materials licensing forms and guidance documents sufficient to enable timely response to information requests.
For GG-11, one year of specialized experience at the GG-10 level. Experience in a wide range of administrative duties such as: Skill in operating computer equipment sufficient to prepare correspondence, memoranda, presentations, and reports in final form. Expert ability to organize the flow of administrative work, to maintain and organize an adequate filing system, and to locate and assemble material for reports and meetings. Ability to handle multiple, time sensitive tasks. Experience that demonstrates detailed knowledge of the procedures associated with the licensing and inspection activities sufficient to administratively process all aspects of licenses or license amendments independently. Experience that provided expert knowledge of the materials licensing forms and guidance documents sufficient to enable timely response to information requests.

A description of how you possess the specialized experience as well as how you meet the qualifications desired in an ideal candidate must be addressed in your resume. The NRC encourages applicants to provide job experience details in your resume. Applicants may also use the supplemental vacancy question to provide additional information pertaining to the specialized experience and ideal candidate criteria.
PLEASE BE CLEAR AND CONCISE. WE WILL NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE.

Education:There is no education requirementEmployment Type: OTHER