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Senior Reactor Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

North Carolina State University

Research Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Receive comprehensive training to obtain licensure as a Senior Reactor Operator from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). * System Design and Maintenance: Participate in the design ...

NCSU

Research Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Receive comprehensive training to obtain licensure as a Senior Reactor Operator from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). * System Design and Maintenance: Participate in the design ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Chapel Hill, NC

$83K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Cary, NC

$91K - $109K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Middlesex, NC

$67K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Rougemont, NC

$66K - $79K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Zebulon, NC

$83K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Moncure, NC

$66K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Princeton, NC

$84K - $101K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Youngsville, NC

$74K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Smithfield, NC

$85K - $102K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Micro, NC

$78K - $94K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Kenly, NC

$78K - $94K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Knightdale, NC

$88K - $106K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Louisburg, NC

$88K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Oxford, NC

$90K - $108K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Pittsboro, NC

$68K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Selma, NC

$78K - $94K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Rolesville, NC

$66K - $79K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Sargent Lundy

Senior Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Cary, NC · On-site

$84.76 - $129.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants * Functional mechanical drawings and/or ... reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work ...

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All JobsReactor Operator JobsSenior Reactor Operator JobsSenior Reactor Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Senior Reactor Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$24.3K

$78K

$158.9K

How much do senior reactor operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior reactor operator in Raleigh, NC is $78,046.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,300.00 and $100,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Senior Reactor Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Senior Reactor Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Reactor Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Reactor Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Senior Reactor Operator jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Senior Reactor Operator job openings:

Senior Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Reactor Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $78,046 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Research Engineer

North Carolina State University

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

458th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194222EP
Internal Recruitment
No
Working Title
Research Engineer
Anticipated Hiring Range
Commensurate with Education and Experience
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Job Location
Raleigh, NC
Department
Nuclear Engineering
About the Department
The Department of Nuclear Engineering offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Nuclear Engineering. We are the only nuclear engineering program in the state of North Carolina and one of the premier departments in the southeast United States. Our purpose is to enhance, promote, and utilize the PULSTAR research reactor and associated facilities in an exemplary manner, leading to national recognition as a premier 1-MW Nuclear Reactor Program dedicated to research, teaching, and extension. The PULSTAR reactor facility is available for use by research faculty and staff within the UNC system or at other academic institutions, and by governmental agencies and industries in the State of North Carolina and the Nation.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being.
What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
  • Reactor Operations and Training: Receive comprehensive training to obtain licensure as a Senior Reactor Operator from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
  • System Design and Maintenance: Participate in the design, installation, testing, operation, and maintenance of reactor plant and experimental facility systems.
  • Procedure and Protocol Development: Develop detailed specifications for reactor and experiment system components, including design requirements and operational and maintenance procedures. Create and implement laboratory safety and radiation protection procedures and protocols to support reactor research.
  • Computational Modeling and Simulation: Formulate and execute reactor core and system simulations using high-performance computing (HPC) resources to ensure safe reactor operation.
  • Research and Development: Design experimental facilities and conduct complex research utilizing computational resources. Formulate research methodologies and propose enhancements to improve research quality.
  • Documentation and Publication: Contribute to project documentation and reporting, author scholarly papers, and support the development of proposals for new projects.
  • Nuclear System Analysis: Perform nuclear system simulations, experimental facility design, and nuclear data generation to support the safe operation of the PULSTAR nuclear research reactor. Utilize HPC resources to run atomistic simulation, nuclear data generation, and radiation transport codes.

Other Responsibilities
  • Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • For the Research Engineer position relevant Ph.D degree in Nuclear Engineering. Greater than or equal to 10 years of experience with each of the following activities:
    • Utilization of reactor facility including administration of a service center.
    • Providing technical input for generating proposals for academic and corporate users.
    • Design and installation of experimental apparatus, and performing testing and generating reports.

Other Required Qualifications
  • Understand technical operating, service or repair manuals.
  • Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
  • Experience in the following areas: Nuclear reactor analyses, nuclear reactor benchmarks; Experimental nuclear facility design, nuclear data evaluation and validation, and modeling using molecular methods. Strong capabilities in using MCNP, Serpent, NJOY, OpenFoam, VASP, and PHONON codes. Strong programming skills using languages such as Fortran and Python, and utilities such as MATLAB.
  • Strong capabilities in using Multiphysics simulation codes.

Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with tenets and implementation of safety and security culture and cyber-security mitigations at a research reactor facility desirable. Experience with electronic systems including analog instrumentation, industrial I&C, LV power, automation, and/or radiation detection is desirable. Knowledge of analytical chemistry, chemical safety and hygiene, and/or radiochemistry are encouraged.
  • Analog electrical instruments
  • Industrial I&C and automation
  • LV power
  • Radiation detection
  • Radiation protection and shielding
  • Analytical chemistry
  • Radiochemistry
  • Chemical safety and hygiene
  • Familiarity with design and operation of high and very-high vacuum systems

Required License(s) or Certification(s)
  • N/A

Valid NC Driver's License required
No
Commercial Driver's License required
No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
09/11/2025
Anticipated Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please include as attachments a resume/CV, cover letter, and contact information for at least 3 professional references.
Position Details
Position Number
00108861
Position Type
EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.0
Appointment
12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Mandatory - Fire/Explosions, Mandatory - Medical Emergencies, Mandatory - Hazardous Material Incidents, Mandatory - Transportation Accidents, Mandatory - Evacuations/Natural Hazards, Mandatory - Utilities/Infrastructure Failure, Mandatory - Threats of Violence/Terrorism/Interpersonal Emergencies
Department ID
141201 - Nuclear Reactor Program
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

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