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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

  • Engineer
  • Nuclear Engineer
  • Nuclear Licensing Engineer
  • Nuclear Reactor Engineer

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key 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.
  • KnowledgeDesign nuclear waste disposal systems and containment protocols applying principles of nuclear science, physics, and engineering theory while adhering to federal safety regulations.
  • KnowledgeFormulate advanced research methodologies for nuclear engineering experiments integrating physics, chemistry, and engineering knowledge to address emerging problems in nuclear energy applications.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize multidisciplinary knowledge from physics, mathematics, chemistry, and engineering disciplines to innovate solutions for nuclear reactor optimization and next-generation energy systems.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze nuclear energy release, control mechanisms, and radiation transport data using Monte Carlo simulation and mathematical modeling software to solve complex engineering problems.
  • KnowledgeAssess radiation shielding effectiveness and dose exposure scenarios utilizing MCNP, DORT, and QAD computational codes in reactor facility and research settings.
  • KnowledgeInterpret reactor excursion analysis results and transient behavior data for interdisciplinary engineering teams and regulatory stakeholders under time-critical conditions.
  • Hands-onOperate reactivity computer systems and nuclear wireline logging instruments following established safety protocols in controlled nuclear facility environments.
  • Hands-onPerform inspection procedures on nuclear equipment, structures, and containment materials wearing anticontamination clothing and respiratory protection in radioactive environments.
  • MindsetAdvocate for public safety and security protocols in nuclear operations when consulting with governmental agencies, regulatory bodies, and external stakeholders.
  • MindsetIntegrate ethical considerations with technical decision-making in nuclear waste management balancing environmental impact, public health concerns, and operational feasibility.
  • KnowledgeDevelop technical documentation, training materials, and regulatory compliance reports communicating complex nuclear engineering concepts to diverse technical and non-technical audiences.

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

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $88,290. 25th percentile: U.S. $103,010. 50th percentile: U.S. $127,520. 75th percentile: U.S. $157,600. 90th percentile: U.S. $187,430. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • C++
  • Linux
  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word
  • Oracle Java
  • Python
  • SAP software
  • SAS
  • Salesforce software
  • The MathWorks MATLAB
  • UNIX

Technology Skills

  • ANISN dose assessment computer code
  • BERMUDA nuclear transport computer codes
  • Computer aided design CAD software
  • Desktop publishing software
  • Discrete ordinates DORT dose assessment computer codes
  • FOLLOW code
  • Formula translation/translator FORTRAN
  • Graphics software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Anticontamination clothing
  • Desktop computers
  • Face masks
  • Nuclear wireline logging instruments
  • Personal computers
  • Reactivity computer systems
  • Respirators