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Reactor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Reactor

Forward Deployed Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Travel to top world model labs, integrate their models onto Reactor's infrastructure, and own the deployment end to end * Profile and optimize model performance to hit the latency and throughput ...

Kairos Power

Senior Engineer, Reactor Vessel

Alameda, CA

$118K - $162K/yr

Job Summary The Reactor Vessel System team is seeking a highly motivated Senior Engineer to join the growing Reactor Systems department. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work directly ...

Kairos Power

Senior Engineer, Reactor Vessel

Alameda, CA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Job Summary The Reactor Vessel System team is seeking a highly motivated Senior Engineer to join the growing Reactor Systems department. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work directly ...

Radiant Industries

Reactor Operations Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

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 ...

Radiant

Reactor Operations Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

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 ...

Decisive Point

Reactor Operations Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$119 - $146.48/hr

Reactor Operations Engineer We are seeking a Reactor Operations Engineer to design and implement mission‑critical procedures for reactor operators managing our groundbreaking nuclear microreactor ...

Radiant

Senior Reactor Operations Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$133K - $184K/yr

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 ...

Radiant

Senior Reactor Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$133K - $184K/yr

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 ...

Reactor

Senior Product Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

We're building that future at Reactor. This role is your chance to design how it feels to use and interact with these capabilities. You'll own design at Reactor end-to-end. That means defining the ...

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How much do reactor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for reactor in California is $34.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.77 and $35.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a reactor?

In the context of jobs, a 'Reactor' typically refers to a professional who operates and monitors nuclear reactors in power plants or research facilities. Their responsibilities include controlling reactor systems, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and responding to any operational anomalies. Reactor operators must be highly trained and licensed, as their work involves managing nuclear materials and protecting both people and the environment. They work closely with engineers and other technical staff to maintain efficient and safe reactor operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear reactor operator?

To thrive as a Nuclear Reactor Operator, you need a strong understanding of nuclear physics, engineering principles, and operational protocols, typically requiring a high school diploma or associate degree and completion of specialized training programs. Familiarity with reactor control systems, safety monitoring equipment, and a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) operator license are essential technical qualifications. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensuring the safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant operation of nuclear reactors.

What are some common challenges faced by reactor operators during daily operations?

Reactor operators frequently encounter challenges such as maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols while managing complex control systems. They must be vigilant to detect and respond quickly to abnormal readings or alarms, which requires strong attention to detail and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Additionally, operators often work in shifts and within tightly regulated environments, which can be physically and mentally demanding. Teamwork and clear communication with engineers and other operators are crucial to ensure safe and efficient reactor performance.

What is the difference between Reactor vs Technician?

AspectReactorTechnician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering or nuclear technology, along with specialized reactor operation certificationsUsually needs technical diploma or associate degree, with specific technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates in nuclear power plants or research reactors, following strict safety protocolsWorks in maintenance, troubleshooting, and support roles within industrial or nuclear facilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by nuclear power plants, research institutions, and energy companiesEmployed across various industries including energy, manufacturing, and maintenance services

The main difference between a Reactor and a Technician lies in their roles and responsibilities. Reactors are specialized operators managing nuclear systems, requiring advanced certifications and working in high-security environments. Technicians support these operations through maintenance and technical support, often with less advanced credentials. Both roles are essential in the nuclear industry, but they differ in scope, training, and daily tasks.

How much do reactor operators get paid?

Reactor operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and the specific facility. They often require specialized training, certifications, and adherence to strict safety protocols, with some positions offering additional shift differentials or overtime pay.

How to get a job at a nuclear reactor?

To work as a reactor operator or technician, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training and certification from a recognized authority such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Relevant skills include understanding nuclear physics, safety procedures, and operating control systems, often gained through an accredited training program or technical college. Prior experience in industrial or technical environments can also be beneficial.

What are popular job titles related to Reactor jobs in California?

For Reactor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Reactor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Reactor jobs in California are:

Reactor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Reactor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,491 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

Nuclear Power Reactor Operator

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

TradeJobsWorkForce
See more jobs at TradeJobsWorkForceexternal

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Nuclear Power Reactor Operator Job Duties: Operate nuclear power reactors in accordance with policies and procedures to protect workers from radiation and to ensure environmental safety.

Operate energy production equipment.

Adjust controls to position rod and to regulate flux level, reactor period, coolant temperature, or rate of power flow, following standard procedures.

Operate energy distribution equipment.

Develop or implement actions such as lockouts, tagouts, or clearances to allow equipment to be safely repaired.

Plan production or operational procedures or sequences.

Direct reactor operators in emergency situations, in accordance with emergency operating procedures.

Direct operational or production activities.

Respond to system or unit abnormalities, diagnosing the cause, and recommending or taking corrective action.

Diagnose equipment malfunctions.

Maintain sustainable energy production equipment.

Advise others on ways to improve processes or products.

Monitor all systems for normal running conditions, performing activities such as checking gauges to assess output or the effects of generator loading on other equipment.

Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.

Monitor or operate boilers, turbines, wells, or auxiliary power plant equipment.

Monitor equipment operation to ensure proper functioning.

Operate energy production equipment.

Implement operational procedures, such as those controlling start-up or shut-down activities.

Operate energy production equipment.

Record operating data, such as the results of surveillance tests.

Record operational or production data.

Note malfunctions of equipment, instruments, or controls and report these conditions to supervisors.

Watch operating equipment to detect malfunctions.

Notify others of equipment repair or maintenance needs.

Participate in nuclear fuel element handling activities, such as preparation, transfer, loading, or unloading.

Authorize maintenance activities on units or changes in equipment or system operational status.

Direct operational or production activities.

Supervise technicians' work activities to ensure that equipment is operated in accordance with policies and procedures that protect workers from radiation and ensure environmental safety.

Direct operational or production activities.

Dispatch orders or instructions to personnel through radiotelephone or intercommunication systems to coordinate auxiliary equipment operation.

Exchange information with colleagues.

Authorize actions to correct identified operational inefficiencies or hazards so that operating efficiency is maximized and potential environmental issues are minimized.

Direct operational or production activities.

Review and edit standard operating procedures.

Direct the collection and testing of air, water, gas, or solid samples to determine radioactivity levels or to ensure appropriate radioactive containment.

Direct operational or production activities.

Conduct inspections or operations outside of control rooms as necessary.

Direct measurement of the intensity or types of radiation in work areas, equipment, or materials.

Direct operational or production activities.

Identify or direct implementation of appropriate decontamination procedures, based on equipment and the size, nature, and type of contamination.

Plan production or operational procedures or sequences.

Direct operational or production activities.

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