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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

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

$82.80K - $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

$82.80K - $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

$82.80K - $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 ...

Zap Energy

Micro Reactor Lead Engineer

Everett, WA · On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

Built on an integrated platform of high-energy-density physics and pulsed power, liquid metals and ... Reactor Core * * Nuclear Fuel * * Reactor Internals * * Reactor Vessel * * Reactivity Control ...

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How much do reactor physics jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 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 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 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 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.

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.

More about Reactor Physics jobs
What cities are hiring for Reactor Physics jobs? Cities with the most Reactor Physics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Reactor Physics jobs? The most popular types of Reactor Physics jobs are:
What states have the most Reactor Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Reactor Physics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Reactor Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Reactor Physics jobs are:
Reactor Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reactor Physics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 3% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Lead Reactor Physicist / Core Design Lead (SMR / MMR Programs)

Barupon LLC

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Role Summary
BaRupOn LLC is seeking a highly experienced Lead Reactor Physicist / Core Design Lead to own the reactor physics and core design program for its Small Modular Reactor (SMR) and Micro Modular Reactor (MMR) initiatives in the United States.
This is a technical leadership role at the heart of BaRupOn's nuclear engineering organization. The Lead Reactor Physicist will be responsible for the full lifecycle of reactor core design - from initial neutronics modeling and fuel assembly optimization through safety analysis integration and NRC regulatory submissions. This person will work in close partnership with licensing, engineering, and operations teams to ensure every core design is safe, efficient, and fully compliant with applicable U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) requirements.
The ideal candidate brings deep hands-on experience in reactor physics and core design for advanced or non-light water reactors, a strong command of U.S. nuclear regulatory frameworks, and the technical leadership ability to guide a growing team of physicists and engineers in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
Reactor Core Design & Physics Analysis
  • Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of SMR/MMR reactor cores, including fuel assembly configurations, control rod systems, and core loading strategies.
  • Perform comprehensive reactor physics calculations: neutronics analysis, burnup and depletion modeling, reactivity control, flux distribution, and thermal-hydraulic integration.
  • Develop, validate, and maintain core simulation models and analytical methods using industry-standard neutronics and thermal-hydraulic codes.
  • Evaluate reactor core performance across the full range of operating and accident conditions, ensuring all safety margins are met.

Safety Analysis & Regulatory Compliance
  • Ensure all core designs comply with NRC regulations, safety limits, and licensing requirements, including 10 CFR Part 50, Part 52, and the emerging Part 53 framework for advanced reactors.
  • Support the development of Safety Analysis Reports (SAR/FSAR), technical specifications, and other regulatory documentation related to core design and reactor physics.
  • Perform or oversee probabilistic risk assessments (PRA) and deterministic safety analyses in support of licensing submissions.
  • Respond to NRC requests for additional information (RAIs) on core design and physics matters.

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Collaborate closely with the Director of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs, mechanical and structural engineers, and operations teams to integrate physics requirements into overall reactor system design.
  • Provide physics input to thermal-hydraulic, structural, and materials engineering teams throughout the design process.
  • Support project management on physics-related milestone planning, schedule dependencies, and technical risk identification.

Technical Leadership & Team Development
  • Guide, mentor, and develop a team of junior and mid-level reactor physicists and core design engineers.
  • Establish and maintain core design standards, calculation methodologies, and code validation protocols across the team.
  • Prepare and review technical reports, design certifications, and white papers for internal and regulatory audiences.
  • Represent BaRupOn in technical forums, industry working groups, and national laboratory collaborations related to advanced reactor physics.

Required Experience & Qualifications
  • Master's or PhD in Nuclear Engineering, Reactor Physics, or a closely related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in reactor physics, core design, or nuclear engineering within the U.S. nuclear industry.
  • Proven, hands-on experience with reactor core design for SMR, advanced reactor, or Generation IV systems.
  • Deep working knowledge of U.S. nuclear regulatory frameworks, including 10 CFR Part 50, Part 52, and the emerging Part 53 framework for advanced reactors.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with industry-standard neutronics codes (e.g., MCNP, SCALE, CASMO, SIMULATE, or equivalent) and thermal-hydraulic modeling tools.
  • Experience developing and validating computational methods and core simulation models for NRC licensing purposes.
  • Strong technical communication skills, including the ability to author and defend regulatory documents and safety reports.

Preferred Skills & Certifications
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the U.S. - preferred.
  • Experience with NRC pre-application engagement and formal licensing interactions.
  • Active membership in recognized nuclear professional organizations, such as the American Nuclear Society (ANS).
  • Experience with advanced fuel cycle design, digital twin modeling, and integrated safety analysis software platforms.
  • Familiarity with NEPA environmental review processes and modular construction design constraints.
  • Strong mentoring, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration capabilities.

Why Join BaRupOn LLC
  • Take technical ownership of core design for one of the most ambitious SMR/MMR programs in the U.S. - from the ground up.
  • Work directly alongside the CNO, CTO, and licensing leadership team with real authority over physics methodology and core design direction.
  • Competitive compensation and benefits, including potential equity participation tied to program milestones.
  • Collaborate with top-tier engineers, national laboratory partners, and federal program stakeholders at the frontier of advanced nuclear energy.
  • A mission-driven company where technical excellence and safety culture are foundational, not aspirational.

Equal Opportunity Statement
BaRupOn LLC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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