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Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$104K - $124K/yr

Professional Engineering Description Nalley Consulting has an outstanding opportunity for a Nuclear ... S. Navy intelligence veteran, Nalley Consulting has grown to include multiple IDIQ vehicles in ...

Nuclear Engineer - Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$104K - $124K/yr

Professional Engineering Description Nalley Consulting has an outstanding opportunity for a Nuclear ... S. Navy intelligence veteran, Nalley Consulting has grown to include multiple IDIQ vehicles in ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lind, WA

$102K - $122K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

Nuclear Engineer

Kenai, AK

$97K - $117K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

Nuclear Engineer

Eggertsville, NY

$90K - $108K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

Nuclear Engineer

Brookdale, CA

$107K - $128K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

Nuclear Engineer

Cleveland, MS

$84K - $101K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

Nuclear Engineer

Bunnell, FL

$81K - $97K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

Nuclear Engineer

Arlington, GA

$95K - $114K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

Nuclear Engineer

Madison, FL

$73K - $88K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

Nuclear Engineer

Covington, WA

$111K - $133K/yr

... engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for attention to ...

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Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering information

See salary details

$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior navy nuclear engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior navy nuclear engineering in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Senior Navy Nuclear Engineers?

Senior Navy Nuclear Engineers are experienced professionals in the U.S. Navy responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and safety of nuclear propulsion systems on naval vessels, such as submarines and aircraft carriers. They supervise technical teams, ensure adherence to strict safety protocols, and may also be involved in training junior personnel. These engineers play a critical role in maintaining the performance and reliability of the Navy's nuclear-powered fleet. Their expertise is essential for mission readiness and the safe handling of nuclear technology.

What does a senior Nuclear Engineer make?

A senior Navy Nuclear Engineer typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specific responsibilities. They often hold security clearances and require specialized training in nuclear propulsion systems and safety protocols.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior Navy Nuclear Engineers can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually with overtime, bonuses, and allowances. These roles require advanced technical skills, security clearances, and extensive experience in nuclear propulsion systems within the military or defense industry.

How much do navy nuclear engineers make?

Navy nuclear engineers typically earn a salary ranging from $70,000 to over $120,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. They often receive additional benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and retirement plans, and must hold specialized certifications and security clearances. Salaries can increase with promotions and advanced technical skills.

Can you make $500,000 as a Nuclear Engineer?

Senior Navy Nuclear Engineers can potentially earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with overtime, bonuses, and specialized certifications. However, such high compensation levels are typically achieved through extensive experience, leadership roles, or additional responsibilities within the military or private sector. Most nuclear engineers earn between $100,000 and $200,000 per year, with top earners in senior or managerial positions reaching higher figures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Navy Nuclear Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Navy Nuclear Engineer, you need an in-depth understanding of nuclear engineering principles, reactor operations, and compliance with Navy standards, typically supported by a degree in engineering and completion of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. Mastery of technical systems such as reactor instrumentation, propulsion control systems, and familiarity with specialized simulation software and safety certifications are crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure the safe and efficient operation of naval nuclear reactors and to lead teams under high-stakes conditions.

What is the difference between Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering vs Navy Nuclear Reactor Operator?

AspectSenior Navy Nuclear EngineeringNavy Nuclear Reactor Operator
CertificationsEngineering degrees, nuclear propulsion certifications, security clearanceNuclear propulsion training, reactor operator certification, security clearance
Work EnvironmentDesign, maintenance, and oversight of nuclear systems aboard ships/submarinesOperate and monitor nuclear reactors on ships/submarines
Employer & IndustryU.S. Navy, military maritime operationsU.S. Navy, military maritime operations

Senior Navy Nuclear Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and overseeing nuclear propulsion systems, while Navy Nuclear Reactor Operators are responsible for the day-to-day operation and monitoring of nuclear reactors. Both roles require specialized training, security clearance, and work within the naval maritime environment, but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Navy Nuclear Engineers and how can they be addressed?

Senior Navy Nuclear Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing complex nuclear propulsion systems, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and troubleshooting under tight operational timelines. Effective communication and strong leadership are essential, as these engineers typically oversee teams and coordinate with other departments, such as operations and maintenance. Staying current with evolving regulations and technological advances is also crucial for success. Continuous professional development and fostering a collaborative environment can help address these challenges.
More about Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Navy Nuclear Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Navy Nuclear Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Navy Nuclear Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.
Senior Nuclear Systems Engineer

Senior Nuclear Systems Engineer

WILLCOR Inc

Joint Base Pearl Habor Hickam, HI

$106K - $145K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title:Senior Nuclear Systems Engineer
Location:Pearl Harbor, HI
Clearance: Secret
Salary:Negotiable
Overview:
The Senior Engineer will provide analytical and engineering support to the COMSUBPAC Maintenance and Material Readiness Directorate (N4), focusing on training and oversight of radiological controls for submarine and submarine tender operations and maintenance. This role requires a deep understanding of submarine nuclear engineering, logistics, and maintenance to manage initiatives, coordinate stakeholders, and drive projects to completion. The Senior Engineer will also develop leadership-ready briefs to present complex technical issues and project progress to clients and senior leadership. This position is primarily based on-site at Pearl Harbor, Hawai'i, with potential travel to various local, CONUS, and OCONUS locations.
Qualifications:

  • Bachelors Degree in Engineering.
  • Twelve (12) years of experience operating nuclear-powered Naval vessels or working in a nuclear-capable shipyard, with five (5) years of experience in at least one of the following areas:
  • Nuclear engineering
  • Radiological control and/or radiological/all-hazard emergency planning
  • Engineering, testing, work controls, and/or operations of naval nuclear propulsion systems.

Desired:

  • Three (3) years of experience as a Division Head or higher in a nuclear-capable shipyard, or as a nuclear-trained Department Head or higher aboard U.S. Navy nuclear-powered warships.
  • Three (3) years of experience in radiological control and radiological/all-hazard emergency planning.

WILLCOR logo

About WILLCOR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

College Park, MD, US

Year founded

2002