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Structural Design Engineer Nuclear Power Plant Jobs

Nuclear Plant Modification Support Support structural design activities for plant modification ... Support Extended Power Uprate (EPU) engineering evaluations. Maintain documentation in accordance ...

Electrical Engineer - Nuclear

Columbia, AL · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

Southern Nuclear Position Overview The Senior Electrical Engineer - Nuclear is responsible for leading and overseeing electrical power system design activities for nuclear power plant projects. This ...

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Structural Design Engineer Nuclear Power Plant information

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$43K

$103.5K

$192.5K

How much do structural design engineer nuclear power plant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural design engineer nuclear power plant in the United States is $103,463.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a structural design engineer do at a nuclear power plant?

A Structural Design Engineer at a nuclear power plant is responsible for designing, analyzing, and ensuring the integrity of structures such as containment buildings, cooling towers, and support systems. They use advanced engineering principles and software to create safe and efficient designs that can withstand extreme conditions, including earthquakes, high winds, and radiation. These engineers also ensure compliance with regulatory standards and collaborate with other engineers and safety experts throughout the plant’s lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural design engineer in a nuclear power plant?

To thrive as a Structural Design Engineer in a Nuclear Power Plant, you need expertise in structural analysis, civil engineering principles, and a relevant engineering degree, often with experience in nuclear standards and regulations. Proficiency with specialized design software like STAAD.Pro, ANSYS, and familiarity with codes such as ASME and ACI, as well as nuclear safety certifications, are typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help ensure robust and compliant designs. These capabilities are crucial to guarantee the safety, integrity, and regulatory compliance of critical infrastructure in a high-stakes environment.

What are the main challenges a structural design engineer faces when working on nuclear power plant projects?

Structural Design Engineers in nuclear power plant projects often encounter unique challenges such as adhering to stringent safety regulations, accommodating seismic and environmental loads, and ensuring structural integrity over long service lifespans. The complexity of integrating new designs with existing infrastructure and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams can also be demanding. Additionally, engineers must keep up-to-date with evolving industry standards and participate in rigorous review processes to guarantee compliance and safety.

What is the difference between Structural Design Engineer Nuclear Power Plant vs Civil Engineer?

AspectStructural Design Engineer Nuclear Power PlantCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Structural or Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license common
Work EnvironmentDesigning structures for nuclear facilities, safety-critical environmentsDesigning various infrastructure projects like buildings, bridges, roads
Industry UsagePrimarily in nuclear power, energy, and specialized industrial sectorsConstruction, transportation, urban development sectors

While both roles require a civil or structural engineering background and similar credentials, the Structural Design Engineer Nuclear Power Plant focuses specifically on designing safety-critical structures for nuclear facilities, whereas the Civil Engineer has a broader scope across various infrastructure projects.

What are popular job titles related to Structural Design Engineer Nuclear Power Plant jobs?

For Structural Design Engineer Nuclear Power Plant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Structural Design Engineer Nuclear Power Plant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,463 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Structural Engineer

Baxley, GA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position:  Senior Structural Engineer – Nuclear Projects

Location:  11028 Hatch Pkwy N, Baxley, GA 31513

Duration:  3 Years

Client:       Southern Nuclear


Position Overview

We are seeking a Senior Structural Engineer (Level 3) with 5–10 years of experience supporting nuclear power plant modification projects.

This role will support the Hatch Capital Extended Power Uprate (EPU) Project, performing Owner Acceptance Reviews and serving as the Responsible Design Engineer (RDE) for assigned structural scopes. The ideal candidate brings strong technical expertise in nuclear structural engineering, regulatory compliance, and plant modification work.


Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Design Oversight

Perform Owner Acceptance Reviews (OARs) of structural engineering deliverables.

Serve as the Responsible Design Engineer (RDE) for assigned projects.

Review and approve structural calculations, drawings, and specifications.

Ensure compliance with nuclear codes, standards, and QA requirements.

Nuclear Plant Modification Support

Support structural design activities for plant modification projects.

Evaluate impacts of design changes on safety-related and non-safety-related structures.

Coordinate with mechanical, electrical, civil, and project management teams.

Participate in technical meetings and design reviews.

Regulatory & Quality Compliance

Ensure adherence to nuclear QA programs and regulatory standards.

Support Extended Power Uprate (EPU) engineering evaluations.

Maintain documentation in accordance with nuclear design control processes.


Required Qualifications

Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Structural or Civil preferred).

5–10 years of experience in nuclear power plant engineering.

Experience supporting nuclear modification projects.

Experience performing Owner Acceptance Reviews.

Experience fulfilling Responsible Design Engineer (RDE) duties.

Strong knowledge of structural engineering principles.

Excellent analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.


Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting Extended Power Uprate (EPU) projects.

Familiarity with ACI, AISC, ASCE, and nuclear structural standards.

Experience in safety-related structural systems within nuclear facilities.