Nuclear Engineers
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
EngineerNuclear EngineerNuclear Licensing EngineerNuclear Reactor Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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
| 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
C++LinuxMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordOracle JavaPythonSAP softwareSASSalesforce softwareThe MathWorks MATLABUNIX
Technology Skills
ANISN dose assessment computer codeBERMUDA nuclear transport computer codesComputer aided design CAD softwareDesktop publishing softwareDiscrete ordinates DORT dose assessment computer codesFOLLOW codeFormula translation/translator FORTRANGraphics software
Tools & Equipment
Anticontamination clothingDesktop computersFace masksNuclear wireline logging instrumentsPersonal computersReactivity computer systemsRespirators