Assist nuclear physicists, nuclear engineers, or other scientists in laboratory, power generation, or electricity production activities. May operate, maintain, or provide quality control for nuclear testing and research equipment. May monitor radiation.
SOC: 19-4051.00
Common Job Titles
Licensed Nuclear Operator
Nuclear Auxiliary Operator
Nuclear Equipment Operator (NEO)
Operations Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate radiation detection equipment and monitoring systems in nuclear power generation and research facilities, adhering to strict safety protocols.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate radiation levels and contamination data using digital ratemeters and scintillation detectors to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform quality control inspections of nuclear equipment and structures using ultrasonic flaw detectors and eddy current testing equipment under time constraints.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess equipment malfunctions and system irregularities through troubleshooting protocols in collaboration with nuclear engineers and physicists.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for public safety and regulatory compliance standards when coordinating with interdisciplinary teams in high-consequence nuclear environments.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery of documentation and record-keeping procedures using database software and word processing tools to maintain accurate operational logs.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze process data and equipment performance metrics using SCADA software and data logging systems to identify deviations from normal operations.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate nuclear testing and monitoring instrumentation following established technical procedures to maintain measurement accuracy.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation and operating procedures for control rod drives, fuel handling systems, and reactor operations independently.
Developing
Hands-onExecute contamination control and decontamination procedures using protective equipment and specialized handling tools in radioactive work areas.
Developing
MindsetEngage in continuous training and knowledge updates regarding nuclear physics principles, safety regulations, and emerging technologies.
Developing
KnowledgeApply physics and chemistry knowledge to nuclear processes when assisting scientists with laboratory experiments and research activities.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Nuclear Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
5,990
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $64,370. 25th percentile: U.S. $83,330. 50th percentile: U.S. $104,240. 75th percentile: U.S. $113,710. 90th percentile: U.S. $126,890. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
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
Public Safety and Security4.2/5
Mechanical4.0/5
Physics4.0/5
Engineering and Technology3.7/5
Education and Training3.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Linux
Microsoft Access
Microsoft Excel
Microsoft Office software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Word
Structured query language SQL
Technology Skills
Data logging software
Database software
Microsoft operating system
Spreadsheet software
Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
