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Reactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ascent Industries Co

Reactor Operator

Fountain Inn, SC · On-site

Job Posting Title Reactor Operator Duties and Responsibilities: A. Basic Company Requirements * Understand and adhere to company policies and procedures * Read and understand written procedures (in ...

AMS Ameren Services

Senior Reactor Operator

Steedman, MO · On-site

$105K - $162K/yr

Direct Reactor Operators in the control room performing procedures to maneuver and operate the plant. * Supervise Operations Technicians in the field performing local system operations and testing.

Talen Energy

Senior Reactor Operator In Training

Berwick, PA · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Talen Energy is soliciting candidates interested in filling the position of Unit Supervisor/Senior Reactor Operator at the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station located near Berwick, Pennsylvania. Unit ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Magnolia, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting LaSalle Nuclear Power Sation in Marseilles, IL. These Initial License Trainees ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Winnebago, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Bryon Nuclear Power Station located in Byron, IL. These Initial License Trainees ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Drayden, 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

Clements, 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

Oswego, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting LaSalle Nuclear Power Sation in Marseilles, IL. These Initial License Trainees ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting LaSalle Nuclear Power Sation in Marseilles, IL. These Initial License Trainees ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Kingston, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Bryon Nuclear Power Station located in Byron, IL. These Initial License Trainees ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Standard, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting LaSalle Nuclear Power Sation in Marseilles, IL. These Initial License Trainees ...

Constellation Energy

Senior Reactor Operator

Shorewood, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Braidwood Nuclear Power Sation in Braceville, IL. These Initial License Trainees ...

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Reactor Operator information

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$5

$22

$29

How much do reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for reactor operator in the United States is $22.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $22.84 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.
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Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reactor Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,880 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Reactor Operator

Reactor Operator

US Department of Commerce

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$70K/yr

Other

Posted 15 days ago

U.S. Department Of Commerce rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 686 rated public administrative organizations

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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