Nuclear Technicians
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 OperatorNuclear Auxiliary OperatorNuclear Equipment Operator (NEO)Operations Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey 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
| 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
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
LinuxMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordStructured query language SQL
Technology Skills
Data logging softwareDatabase softwareMicrosoft operating systemSpreadsheet softwareSupervisory control and data acquisition SCADA softwareVMWare ESX ServerVMwareWord processing software
Tools & Equipment
Air compressorsAir purifying respiratorsAirline respiratorsArea gamma monitorsAtmosphere supplying respiratorsCondensate demineralizersContamination probesControl rod drives