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.
Common Job Titles
- Licensed Nuclear Operator
- Nuclear Auxiliary Operator
- Nuclear 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
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
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
- VMWare ESX Server
- VMware
- Word processing software
Tools & Equipment
- Air compressors
- Air purifying respirators
- Airline respirators
- Area gamma monitors
- Atmosphere supplying respirators
- Condensate demineralizers
- Contamination probes
- Control rod drives