Nuclear Engineers
Nuclear engineers research and develop applications of nuclear science, focusing on the safe release, control, and use of nuclear energy. They also work on nuclear waste disposal solutions. These professionals typically work in power plants, research facilities, government agencies, and engineering firms.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against nuclear engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A nuclear engineer might spend time analyzing reactor performance data, conducting safety simulations, or designing containment systems. Tasks include reviewing technical specifications, collaborating with other engineers on compliance issues, writing reports on project findings, and attending meetings with regulatory bodies. Some days involve laboratory work testing materials or components under various conditions.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy solving complex technical problems and investigating how systems work at a fundamental level. You prefer hands-on, practical work grounded in physical science and are comfortable with detailed analysis, technical documentation, and responsibility for safety-critical systems.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- NUCLEAR ENGINEER · U.S. Pacific Fleet · San Diego, California · $102246–$132923
- Nuclear Engineer · National Nuclear Security Administration · Washington, District of Columbia · $203124–$209600
- NUCLEAR ENGINEER · United States Fleet Forces Command · Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, Virginia · $108019–$140426
- Senior Nuclear Engineer · Nuclear Regulatory Commission · Rockville, Maryland · $169279–$197200
- SUPERVISORY NUCLEAR ENGINEER · U.S. Pacific Fleet · Bremerton, Washington · $131841–$171396
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $164,050 | $195,190 | $204,940 | 230 |
| California | $135,400 | $172,400 | $176,390 | 1,070 |
| New Mexico | $134,370 | $164,300 | $199,020 | 500 |
| Maryland | $127,870 | $157,960 | $190,470 | 180 |
| Massachusetts | $103,790 | $145,760 | $161,620 | 210 |
| New York | $137,260 | $141,200 | $162,690 | 150 |
| Florida | $110,810 | $135,400 | $160,990 | 120 |
| Illinois | $112,260 | $134,510 | $162,440 | 1,040 |
| Idaho | $107,030 | $133,970 | $136,500 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $103,680 | $133,250 | $162,100 | 340 |
| Alabama | $125,870 | $132,570 | $154,920 | 290 |
| Georgia | $104,870 | $132,440 | $158,130 | 200 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Nuclear Facility Licensed Operator (LO) — United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission
- Principles and Practice of Engineering - Nuclear (PE-N) — National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying
- Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE) — American Society for Quality
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against nuclear engineers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-2161.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.