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Reactor Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

Strong working knowledge of reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, and plant systems as applied to day-to-day operations * Familiarity with nuclear QA programs, technical specifications, and the ...

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

Strong working knowledge of reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, and plant systems as applied to day-to-day operations * Familiarity with nuclear QA programs, technical specifications, and the ...

Last Energy

Reactor Operator

Bryan, TX · On-site

Strong working knowledge of reactor physics, thermal hydraulics, and plant systems as applied to day-to-day operations * Familiarity with nuclear QA programs, technical specifications, and the ...

Last Energy

Nuclear Controls Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Collaborate with reactor physics, safety, and operations teams to align controls with overall reactor performance and safety objectives * Support documentation and regulatory submissions related to ...

Last Energy

Nuclear Controls Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Collaborate with reactor physics, safety, and operations teams to align controls with overall reactor performance and safety objectives * Support documentation and regulatory submissions related to ...

Last Energy

Nuclear Controls Engineer

Austin, TX

$82K - $107K/yr

Collaborate with reactor physics, safety, and operations teams to align controls with overall reactor performance and safety objectives * Support documentation and regulatory submissions related to ...

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How much do reactor physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for reactor physics in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in reactor physics, and how can they be addressed?

Reactor physics professionals often encounter challenges such as ensuring accurate reactor core calculations, adapting to evolving safety regulations, and troubleshooting unexpected operational anomalies. These challenges require a strong foundation in nuclear theory, proficiency with simulation tools, and effective collaboration with engineers, safety analysts, and operations staff. Staying current with industry advancements and participating in ongoing training can help professionals overcome these hurdles and contribute to safe, efficient reactor operations.

What is the difference between Reactor Physics vs Nuclear Engineer?

AspectReactor PhysicsNuclear Engineer
Primary FocusNeutron behavior, reactor core design, and physics calculationsDesign, development, and safety of nuclear systems and reactors
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in physics or nuclear engineering, certifications in reactor operationEngineering degrees, professional engineering licenses, certifications in nuclear safety
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, reactor facilities, academic settingsPower plants, research facilities, industry
Industry UsageSpecialized in reactor core physics and modelingBroader nuclear system design and safety analysis

Reactor Physics specialists focus on understanding neutron interactions and reactor core behavior, often working in research or academic settings. Nuclear Engineers have a broader role, encompassing system design, safety, and operational aspects of nuclear reactors. While both roles require advanced education and certifications, Reactor Physics is more specialized in core physics, whereas Nuclear Engineering covers a wider range of nuclear systems and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Reactor Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Reactor Physicist, you need a strong background in nuclear engineering or physics, supported by at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with reactor simulation software (such as MCNP, SCALE, or CASMO), radiation detection instruments, and regulatory standards is essential. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving and communication skills help you excel in complex and safety-critical environments. These skills ensure accurate reactor modeling, safe operation, and compliance with stringent nuclear industry regulations.

What is reactor physics?

Reactor physics is the study of the fundamental processes that occur within a nuclear reactor, focusing on how nuclear reactions are initiated, maintained, and controlled. It involves understanding neutron behavior, fission chain reactions, and how these affect reactor design and operation. Reactor physicists use mathematical models and simulations to ensure reactors operate safely and efficiently, and they play a key role in fuel management and regulatory compliance.
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Reactor Physics jobs near you

Manager - Reactor Core Design

AMPERA INC

Palm Beach Gardens, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Savings bank
  • Stock options plan
  • Vision insurance

Position Summary
AMPERA is seeking a Manager, Reactor Core Design to lead the development of the companys advanced subcritical reactor core while serving as a senior individual contributor within the reactor physics organization.
The successful candidate will provide technical leadership for reactor core design, neutronics analysis, fuel management strategy, reactor performance evaluation, and core optimization activities while directly performing reactor physics calculations and mentoring a growing team of reactor engineers.
This role combines technical leadership and hands-on engineering responsibility. The Manager, Reactor Core Design will lead the day-to-day execution of reactor core design activities while contributing directly to core modeling, analysis, and design development.
The position reports to the Vice President of Engineering.
Position Purpose
The Manager, Reactor Core Design is responsible for establishing and directing AMPERAs reactor core design activities and developing the analytical foundation supporting the companys reactor technology.
The role serves as the technical leader for reactor physics and core design while helping develop the next generation of reactor engineers within the organization.
Key Responsibilities
Reactor Core Design Leadership
  • Lead development of AMPERAs reactor core design.
  • Define reactor physics methodologies, assumptions, and analysis approaches.
  • Direct core design activities supporting reactor performance, safety, operability, and economics.
  • Establish technical standards and best practices for reactor physics analyses.
  • Mentor and develop reactor physics engineers.
Core Design and Analysis
  • Perform and review reactor core design calculations.
  • Develop and evaluate core loading strategies and fuel management approaches.
  • Perform criticality, reactivity, power distribution, and neutron flux analyses.
  • Evaluate design alternatives and optimization opportunities.
  • Support development of reactor operating envelopes and performance characteristics.
Modeling and Simulation
  • Develop, maintain, and review reactor physics models.
  • Perform neutronics analyses using industry-standard tools.
  • Establish model verification and validation processes.
  • Support uncertainty quantification and sensitivity analyses.
  • Develop methodologies supporting future licensing activities.
Safety and Licensing Support
  • Support reactor safety analysis activities.
  • Provide reactor physics input to accident analyses and design basis evaluations.
  • Support development of licensing methodologies and technical documentation.
  • Prepare technical reports supporting regulatory interactions.
Technical Leadership
  • Lead a small team of reactor engineers.
  • Review technical work products and analyses.
  • Establish reactor physics processes and workflows.
  • Support recruiting and development of future reactor engineering staff.
  • Coordinate closely with thermal hydraulics, safety analysis, systems engineering, and fuel development teams.
Future Capability Development
  • Support implementation of advanced analysis tools and methodologies.
  • Evaluate emerging reactor physics technologies and approaches.
  • Assist in development of future testing and validation programs.
  • Support development of the companys long-term reactor design capability.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelors degree in Nuclear Engineering or closely related discipline.
  • Minimum of 7 years of direct reactor core design experience.
  • Demonstrated experience performing reactor physics and neutronics analyses.
  • Extensive experience using SCALE and MCNP.
  • Experience developing reactor core models and design methodologies.
  • Strong understanding of reactor physics fundamentals and reactor core behavior.
  • Experience reviewing and directing technical analyses.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Masters degree or Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering.
  • 10+ years of reactor core design experience.
  • Experience with OpenMC.
  • Experience supporting reactor licensing activities.
  • Experience with advanced reactor technologies.
  • Experience with depletion, fuel cycle, and fuel management analyses.
  • Experience mentoring and developing junior reactor engineers.
  • Experience with uncertainty quantification and advanced modeling techniques.

Characteristics of the Successful Candidate
The successful candidate is both a technical leader and a practicing engineer.
They enjoy solving reactor physics problems, reviewing technical analyses, and mentoring younger engineers. They are comfortable moving between strategic technical discussions and detailed modeling work.
They maintain strong hands-on proficiency with reactor physics tools while providing leadership and direction to the reactor engineering team.
They are excited by the opportunity to help build a reactor design organization from an early-stage foundation and play a central role in developing a new reactor technology.
Success Metrics
  • Development of a technically sound reactor core design.
  • Establishment of reactor physics methodologies and standards.
  • Successful development and mentoring of reactor engineering staff.
  • Timely completion of core design analyses and milestones.
  • High-quality technical documentation and models.
  • Effective integration with safety, thermal hydraulics, fuel, and systems engineering activities.
  • Creation of a scalable reactor physics capability supporting future licensing and deployment.

**Compensation for this position will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to a competitive salary, Ampera offers a comprehensive benefits package, participation in the Company's equity program through Incentive Stock Options (ISOs), and relocation assistance for qualified candidates, where applicable.