Nuclear Monitoring Technicians
Collect and test samples to monitor results of nuclear experiments and contamination of humans, facilities, and environment.
SOC: 19-4051.02
Common Job Titles
Health Physics Technician (HP Tech)Radiation Protection Specialist (RP Specialist)Radiation Protection Technician (RPT)Radiochemical Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate radiation detection equipment including gamma ray spectrometers, Geiger-Muller counters, and neutron detectors following established safety protocols in nuclear facilities and field environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate contamination levels and radiation exposure data against regulatory standards and safety thresholds in nuclear monitoring operations.Proficient
- Hands-onExecute sample collection procedures for air, water, soil, and biological specimens using proper contamination control techniques and personal protective equipment.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze radiological test results and monitoring data applying knowledge of physics, chemistry, and mathematics to detect contamination patterns.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret nuclear experiment outcomes and environmental monitoring trends using spectroscopy data and statistical analysis to assess safety implications.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate adherence to radiation safety procedures and regulatory compliance when training personnel and coordinating with interdisciplinary teams.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess human exposure levels and facility contamination status using whole body counters, dosimeters, and surface contamination monitors.Proficient
- KnowledgeSynthesize comprehensive radiological surveillance reports documenting monitoring activities, test results, and compliance findings for regulatory authorities.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply public safety and security protocols when responding to potential contamination incidents in nuclear facilities.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate radiation monitoring instruments and dose rate meters maintaining quality control standards for accurate measurement.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Nuclear Monitoring Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,990
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $64,370 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $126,890 |
| Workers on average earn | $100,730 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Physics3.3/5
- Mathematics3.3/5
- Public Safety and Security3.1/5
- Chemistry3.1/5
- English Language3.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Azure softwareMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft Windows ServerMicrosoft WordOracle JavaStructured query language SQL
Technology Skills
AVEVA InTouch HMIConnectivity softwareGamma waste assay system GWASGoogle Compute Engine (GCE)RESRADRadiological assessment display and control system RADACSSupervisory control and data acquisition SCADA softwareWord processing software
Tools & Equipment
Air purifying respiratorsAir sampling devicesAirline respiratorsAlpha air monitorsAlpha/beta counting systemsAlpha/beta surface contamination monitorsArea gamma monitorsAtmosphere supplying respirators