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Reactor Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System One

Nuclear Methods Engineer

Bellevue, WA · Remote

$52 - $85/hr

Fast reactor physics and design intuition * Experience in nuclear design/analysis methodologies including criticality, flux/power distributions, fuel management optimization, reactivity coefficients ...

System One

Nuclear Methods Engineer

Bellevue, WA · Remote

$52 - $85/hr

Fast reactor physics and design intuition * Experience in nuclear design/analysis methodologies including criticality, flux/power distributions, fuel management optimization, reactivity coefficients ...

System One

Nuclear Methods Engineer

Bellevue, WA · Remote

$52 - $85/hr

Fast reactor physics and design intuition * Experience in nuclear design/analysis methodologies including criticality, flux/power distributions, fuel management optimization, reactivity coefficients ...

TerraPower LLC.

Nuclear Methods Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$111K - $133K/yr

Fast reactor physics and design intuition * Experience in understanding and executing nuclear design/analysis methodologies, including criticality, flux/power distributions, fuel management ...

Protingent

Nuclear Methods Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$52 - $85/hr

Fast reactor physics and design intuition * Experience in understanding and executing nuclear design/analysis methodologies, including criticality, flux/power distributions, fuel management ...

TerraPower LLC.

Nuclear Methods Engineer

Bellevue, WA

$111K - $133K/yr

Fast reactor physics and design intuition * Experience in understanding and executing nuclear design/analysis methodologies, including criticality, flux/power distributions, fuel management ...

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Reactor Physics information

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How much do reactor physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 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 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 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 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.

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Reactor Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reactor Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) - AL, GA

U.S. Navy

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

$92K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

The most powerful energy sources in the world need the most powerful minds behind them. As a Nuclear Reactors Engineer, you’ll be responsible for researching, designing, maintaining, operating and regulating the nuclear reactors and power plants that drive the most advanced fleet of submarines and aircraft carriers on Earth. Here, you can fuel a passion for problem-solving by defining and redefining the cutting-edge of nuclear propulsion while setting the standard in nuclear reactor research and regulation. Naval Reactors Engineers have oversight of the Navy's entire fleet of nuclear-powered ships as well as shore-based prototypes and nuclear propulsion support facilities for America’s Navy.

The wide array of technical areas involved in the Naval Nuclear Propulsion program include:

  • Reactor and fluid systems design
  • Reactor physics
  • Materials development
  • Component design such as steam generators, pumps and valves
  • Instrumentation and control of reactor, steam and electric plants
  • Testing and quality control
  • Shielding
  • Chemistry and radiological controls

As a Navy Reactors Engineer stationed at Naval Reactors Headquarters in Washington, D.C., you will provide technical oversight while managing projects ranging from reactor design to fleet operations to de-fueling and decommissioning warships.

Preliminary training and eventual staff assignments center around Naval Reactors Headquarters at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. At Headquarters, you will be a part of an elite, streamlined staff of roughly 500 people who oversee the entire Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program from cradle to grave.​

Even junior-level Naval Reactors Engineers assume responsibility for key technical work in a variety of state-of-the-art facilities, including:

  • Two Department of Energy laboratories
  • Two nuclear prototype/training sites
  • Nearly 100 nuclear-powered ships and submarines
  • Six shipyards
  • More than 1,000 firms that support the Naval Reactors Program
  • U.S. citizen between the ages of 19 and 29. Exceptions may be possible up to age 40.
  • Graduate or a current student pursuing a B.A., B.S., or M.S. (preferably major in mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry, or other technical areas).
  • Those still in school may apply as early as 18 months from completion of an undergraduate degree for Naval Reactors Engineers.
  • Applicants may also join the NUPOC program as early as 12 months from completion of a master's degree.
  • Completed one academic year of calculus (minimum calculus I/II).
  • Completed one academic year of calculus-based physics (minimum physics I/II).
  • A competitive GPA of 3.0 or higher and a minimum grade of "B" in all technical courses.

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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