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Senior Reactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Reactor Operator

Oswego, NY ยท On-site

$159K - $182K/yr

Senior Reactor Operator (Initial License Trainee) Location: Oswego, NY Salary: $159,000 - $182,000 during training | $191,000+ upon SRO License Qualification Benefits: Annual bonus, sign-on bonus ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Oswego, NY ยท On-site

$159K - $182K/yr

Senior Reactor Operator (Initial License Trainee) Location: Oswego, NY Salary: $159,000 - $182,000 during training | $191,000+ upon SRO License Qualification Benefits: Annual bonus, sign-on bonus ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Steedman, MO ยท On-site

$105K - $162K/yr

Must meet one of the following requirements: 1)Currently a Licensed Reactor Operator or Licensed Senior Reactor Operator with one or more years of experience in the position; 2) Previously a Licensed ...

Senior Reactor Operator In Training

Berwick, PA ยท On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Talen Energy is soliciting candidates interested in filling the position of Unit Supervisor/Senior Reactor Operator at the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station located near Berwick, Pennsylvania. Unit ...

Senior Reactor Operator In Training

Berwick, PA ยท On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Talen Energy is soliciting candidates interested in filling the position of Unit Supervisor/Senior Reactor Operator at the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station located near Berwick, Pennsylvania. Unit ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Clinton Nuclear Power Sation in Clinton, IL. Primary Purpose of Position The ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Moline, IL ยท On-site

$191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station located in Cordova, IL. These Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Palmyra, NY ยท On-site

$191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Ginna Nuclear Station located in Ontario, NY. These Initial License Trainees (ILT ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Colora, MD ยท On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Peach Bottom Generating Station located in Delta, PA . The primary purpose of ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Somonauk, IL ยท On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting LaSalle Nuclear Power Sation in Marseilles, IL. Primary Purpose of Position The ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Hammond, IL ยท On-site

$191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Clinton Nuclear Power Sation in Clinton, IL. Primary Purpose of Position The ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Welton, IA ยท On-site

$191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station located in Cordova, IL. These Initial License ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Hillsdale, IL ยท On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Constellation is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to become a licensed Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) supporting Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station located in Cordova, IL. Primary Purpose of ...

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Senior Reactor Operator information

See salary details

$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior reactor operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior reactor operator in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior reactor operator?

A Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) is responsible for overseeing the operation of a nuclear reactor, ensuring safety, compliance with regulations, and efficiency in plant operations. They supervise reactor operators, coordinate responses to abnormal conditions, and make critical decisions to maintain safe reactor conditions. SROs must be licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and undergo extensive training. Their role is crucial in maintaining nuclear plant safety and reliability.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a senior reactor operator?

A Senior Reactor Operator oversees the operation of the nuclear reactor and associated plant systems, ensuring they run safely and efficiently in accordance with strict regulatory standards. This includes monitoring reactor conditions, directing team members during routine operations, conducting safety checks, and responding to operational anomalies or alarms. Senior Reactor Operators also supervise and mentor junior operators, participate in drills and emergency preparedness activities, and maintain detailed operation logs. The role requires continuous vigilance and teamwork to uphold the highest standards of plant safety and performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the senior reactor operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Reactor Operator, candidates typically need a strong background in nuclear engineering or a related discipline, hands-on operational experience in nuclear facilities, and a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Senior Reactor Operator license. Familiarity with reactor control systems, plant monitoring software, emergency procedures, and simulation training platforms is essential. Excellent decision-making, communication, and leadership skills help operators coordinate effectively and respond to high-pressure situations. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of nuclear reactors.

How hard is it to become a senior reactor operator?

Becoming a senior reactor operator requires extensive experience as a licensed reactor operator, typically involving several years of work in nuclear power plants, along with passing rigorous training and certification exams. Candidates must demonstrate strong technical knowledge, leadership skills, and a thorough understanding of plant operations and safety protocols. The process is highly competitive and demanding due to the critical nature of the role.

How much do senior reactor operators make?

Senior reactor operators typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the specific nuclear facility. They are responsible for operating and monitoring nuclear reactors, often requiring certification and extensive training.
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Infographic showing various Senior Reactor Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,287 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Senior Reactor Operator

Verto People

Oswego, NY โ€ข On-site

$159K - $182K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Senior Reactor Operator (Initial License Trainee)

Location: Oswego, NY

Salary: $159,000 - $182,000 during training | $191,000+ upon SRO License Qualification

Benefits: Annual bonus, sign-on bonus, training milestone bonuses, 401(k) match, medical, dental, vision, paid time off, relocation assistance

The Opportunity

A leading nuclear power operator is seeking Initial License Trainees (ILT) to join its Senior Reactor Operator development programme at a commercial nuclear generating station in Illinois.

This is an exceptional opportunity for experienced nuclear professionals, military reactor operators, licensed operators, and nuclear plant personnel to progress into a Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) role.

Successful candidates will undertake a structured Initial License Training programme, ultimately earning an NRC Senior Reactor Operator License and moving into a key leadership position within plant operations.

The Role

As an Initial License Trainee, you will complete a comprehensive combination of classroom instruction, simulator training, examinations, and on-the-job development designed to prepare you for licensing as a Senior Reactor Operator.

Following successful completion of the programme, you will assume responsibility for supervising reactor operations, directing licensed operators and equipment operators, and ensuring the safe and reliable operation of one of the nation's critical clean energy facilities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Complete all phases of the Initial License Training programme
  • Successfully obtain and maintain an NRC Senior Reactor Operator License
  • Train in reactor operations, plant systems, procedures, and emergency response
  • Supervise licensed reactor operators and equipment operators following qualification
  • Support safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations
  • Participate in outage activities and operational support assignments
  • Respond to emergency situations as required
  • Support departmental coverage and operational call-out requirements
  • Maintain compliance with all regulatory, safety, and operational standards

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Ability to meet NRC licensing eligibility requirements

Candidates should meet one of the following:

  • Current or former Reactor Operator License holder with qualifying commercial nuclear experience
  • Qualified military reactor operator, watch engineer, propulsion plant supervisor, engineering officer of the watch, or equivalent nuclear propulsion role
  • Engineering, engineering technology, physical science degree holder with qualifying commercial nuclear plant experience
  • Current or former SRO Instructor with qualifying commercial nuclear experience
  • Experience in operations, maintenance, engineering, work management, outage management, chemistry, radiation protection, or accredited nuclear training environments

Additional Requirements:

  • Ability to obtain and maintain unescorted nuclear plant access
  • Ability to successfully complete required medical examinations and fitness-for-duty requirements
  • Willingness to work rotating schedules and support operational coverage requirements

What's on Offer

  • Total compensation of $159,000 - $182,000 during Initial License Training
  • $191,000+ earning potential upon obtaining SRO License
  • Annual performance bonus target of 15%
  • Sign-on bonus and additional training milestone incentives
  • Extended hours compensation at 1.5x base rate when required
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
  • 401(k) with company matching contributions
  • Employee stock purchase programme
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave
  • Relocation assistance available for eligible candidates