Nuclear Power Reactor Operators
Operate or control nuclear reactors. Move control rods, start and stop equipment, monitor and adjust controls, and record data in logs. Implement emergency procedures when needed. May respond to abnormalities, determine cause, and recommend corrective action.
SOC: 51-8011.00
Common Job Titles
Nuclear Control OperatorNuclear Reactor OperatorNuclear Station Operator (NSO)Reactor Operator (RO)
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Nuclear Power Reactor Operators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,720
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $99,300 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $152,690 |
| Workers on average earn | $122,830 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Physics4.1/5
- Mechanical3.9/5
- Public Safety and Security3.7/5
- Mathematics3.6/5
- Engineering and Technology3.5/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft AccessMicrosoft Azure softwareMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft Power BIMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft SharePointStructured query language SQL
Technology Skills
Data logging softwareMicrosoft Power AutomateOutage management system OMSPlant information data entry software
Tools & Equipment
Air compressorsAir monitoring equipmentAir purifying respiratorsAir sample collection equipmentArea gamma monitorsAutomatic control systemsControl rod drivesCooling towers