Conduct research on nuclear engineering projects or apply principles and theory of nuclear science to problems concerned with release, control, and use of nuclear energy and nuclear waste disposal.
SOC: 17-2161.00
Common Job Titles
Engineer
Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear Licensing Engineer
Nuclear Reactor Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate nuclear reactor designs and safety systems against regulatory compliance standards using specialized dose assessment codes and probabilistic risk assessment software in high-stakes regulatory environments.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign nuclear waste disposal systems and containment protocols applying principles of nuclear science, physics, and engineering theory while adhering to federal safety regulations.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate advanced research methodologies for nuclear engineering experiments integrating physics, chemistry, and engineering knowledge to address emerging problems in nuclear energy applications.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize multidisciplinary knowledge from physics, mathematics, chemistry, and engineering disciplines to innovate solutions for nuclear reactor optimization and next-generation energy systems.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze nuclear energy release, control mechanisms, and radiation transport data using Monte Carlo simulation and mathematical modeling software to solve complex engineering problems.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess radiation shielding effectiveness and dose exposure scenarios utilizing MCNP, DORT, and QAD computational codes in reactor facility and research settings.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret reactor excursion analysis results and transient behavior data for interdisciplinary engineering teams and regulatory stakeholders under time-critical conditions.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate reactivity computer systems and nuclear wireline logging instruments following established safety protocols in controlled nuclear facility environments.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform inspection procedures on nuclear equipment, structures, and containment materials wearing anticontamination clothing and respiratory protection in radioactive environments.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for public safety and security protocols in nuclear operations when consulting with governmental agencies, regulatory bodies, and external stakeholders.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate ethical considerations with technical decision-making in nuclear waste management balancing environmental impact, public health concerns, and operational feasibility.
Proficient
KnowledgeDevelop technical documentation, training materials, and regulatory compliance reports communicating complex nuclear engineering concepts to diverse technical and non-technical audiences.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Nuclear Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,740
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $88,290. 25th percentile: U.S. $103,010. 50th percentile: U.S. $127,520. 75th percentile: U.S. $157,600. 90th percentile: U.S. $187,430. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$88,290
10% of workers earn the following or more
$187,430
Workers on average earn
$134,980
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Engineering and Technology4.6/5
Physics4.5/5
Mathematics4.4/5
English Language4.0/5
Public Safety and Security4.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
C++
Linux
Microsoft Access
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Word
Oracle Java
Python
SAP software
SAS
Salesforce software
The MathWorks MATLAB
UNIX
Technology Skills
ANISN dose assessment computer code
BERMUDA nuclear transport computer codes
Computer aided design CAD software
Desktop publishing software
Discrete ordinates DORT dose assessment computer codes
