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Reactor Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Radiant

Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

The company's first reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor that can be ... About the Role Radiant is a seeking a Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics responsible for designing and ...

Radiant

Senior Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$133K - $184K/yr

You will own modeling methods and reactor physics calculations of neutronics parameters such as reactivity, kinetics parameters, and energy deposition distributions used within our cutting-edge ...

Radiant Industries

Senior Nuclear Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$133K - $184K/yr

You will own modeling methods and reactor physics calculations of neutronics parameters such as reactivity, kinetics parameters, and energy deposition distributions used within our cutting-edge ...

Standard Nuclear, Inc.

Nuclear Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

RESPONSIBILITIES Radiation Transport & Reactor Physics Analysis * Develop, run, and validate radiation transport and reactor physics models using industry-standard tools such as SCALE, MCNP, Serpent ...

SLR Search

Controls Engineer

Austin, TX

$95K - $190K/yr

Controls Engineer Qualifications -- Experience in nuclear controls, reactor physics, or deeply related advanced engineering domains. -- Bachelor's Degree or higher with strong expertise in reactor ...

Standard Nuclear, Inc.

Nuclear Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN

$94K - $112K/yr

RESPONSIBILITIES Radiation Transport & Reactor Physics Analysis * Develop, run, and validate radiation transport and reactor physics models using industry-standard tools such as SCALE, MCNP, Serpent ...

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How much do reactor physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 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
Infographic showing various Reactor Physics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 24% Full Time, 73% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics

Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics

Radiant

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

About Radiant
Radiant is an El Segundo, CA-based startup building the world's first mass-produced, portable nuclear microreactors. The company's first reactor, Kaleidos, is a 1-megawatt, fail-safe microreactor that can be transported anywhere power is needed and run for up to 5 years without refueling. Portable nuclear power with rapid-deploy capability can replace similar-sized diesel generators and provide critical asset support for hospitals, data centers, remote sites, and military bases. Radiant's unique, practical approach to nuclear development leverages modern software engineering to rapidly deliver safe, factory-built microreactors that use existing, well-qualified materials. Founded in 2020, Radiant is on track to test its first reactor at the Idaho National Laboratory this summer, with initial customer deliveries beginning in 2028.
About the Role
Radiant is a seeking a Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics responsible for designing and implementing nuclear-specific testing operations at our 2026 demonstration. You will be responsible for the design of a large portion of the test campaign, which includes providing analysis to verify that the proposed testing is both safe and meets the test's objectives. This position will work closely with nuclear engineers to establish test success criteria and systems / operations engineers to implement written procedures.
Responsibilities & Duties:
  • Collect testing requirements, objectives, and success criteria from nuclear engineers.
  • Develop procedures that satisfy test requirements within the operational bounds of Kaleidos.
  • Perform various reactor physics calculations (neutronic and transient analyses) to verify proposed testing sequence addresses all requirements.
  • Document testing procedures and support operator training and control room GUI development.

Required Qualifications & Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering or equivalent degree from an accredited institution.
  • 2+ years of experience with reactor operations.
  • Experience with radiation transport methods, including with codes such as MCNP/OpenMC/Serpent.
  • Knowledge of thermal hydraulic fundamentals.

Desired Qualifications & Skills:
  • 4+ years of experience with reactor operations.
  • Direct experience as a reactor operator of an existing nuclear reactor.
  • Hands-on experience in developing technical procedures, human factors engineering, or operational interface design.

Additional Requirements:
  • Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as necessary to accomplish our mission.
  • Must work 100% onsite at El Segundo HQ.

Benefits and Perks
  • Stock: Substantial incentive stock plan for all full-time employees.
  • Medical: 100% up to base silver level plan for employee + 50% dependents, offers up to Platinum plans.
  • One Medical: Sponsored memberships for employees and their dependents.
  • Vision: 100% top tier plan coverage + 50% for dependents.
  • Dental: 100% top tier plan coverage, orthodontia extra, 50% for dependents.
  • Voluntary life, accident, hospital, critical illness, commuter and FSA/HSA are offered as employee contributed benefits.
  • 8-weeks of paid parental leave for all parents. Additional paid pregnancy leave for CA employees.
  • Daily catered lunch. Free snacks and drinks.
  • Flexible PTO policy. Remote workday allocation.
  • Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and in-person camaraderie.
  • Beautiful El Segundo headquarters close to the Pacific Ocean.

Total Compensation and Benefits
Radiant compensates people for impact and invests in those who continue to raise the bar. Radiant's new hire compensation package includes base salary, substantial equity grants, and comprehensive health benefits. Total compensation and level are determined through a rigorous evaluation of interview performance, experience, education, and qualifications, and are designed to support continued growth as scope, responsibility, and impact expand at Radiant.
The best of today's advanced reactor builders don't wait for job postings. They join the winning team. If that's you, contact us directly for immediate opportunities: recruiting@radiantnuclear.com.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship at this time.
This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant's capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls.

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