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-generated

Key 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.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate contamination levels and radiation exposure data against regulatory standards and safety thresholds in nuclear monitoring operations.
  • Hands-onExecute sample collection procedures for air, water, soil, and biological specimens using proper contamination control techniques and personal protective equipment.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze radiological test results and monitoring data applying knowledge of physics, chemistry, and mathematics to detect contamination patterns.
  • KnowledgeInterpret nuclear experiment outcomes and environmental monitoring trends using spectroscopy data and statistical analysis to assess safety implications.
  • MindsetAdvocate adherence to radiation safety procedures and regulatory compliance when training personnel and coordinating with interdisciplinary teams.
  • KnowledgeAssess human exposure levels and facility contamination status using whole body counters, dosimeters, and surface contamination monitors.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize comprehensive radiological surveillance reports documenting monitoring activities, test results, and compliance findings for regulatory authorities.
  • KnowledgeApply public safety and security protocols when responding to potential contamination incidents in nuclear facilities.
  • Hands-onCalibrate radiation monitoring instruments and dose rate meters maintaining quality control standards for accurate measurement.

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

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.
MetricU.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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Microsoft Azure software
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Windows Server
  • Microsoft Word
  • Oracle Java
  • Structured query language SQL

Technology Skills

  • AVEVA InTouch HMI
  • Connectivity software
  • Gamma waste assay system GWAS
  • Google Compute Engine (GCE)
  • RESRAD
  • Radiological assessment display and control system RADACS
  • Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
  • Word processing software

Tools & Equipment

  • Air purifying respirators
  • Air sampling devices
  • Airline respirators
  • Alpha air monitors
  • Alpha/beta counting systems
  • Alpha/beta surface contamination monitors
  • Area gamma monitors
  • Atmosphere supplying respirators
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment