Nuclear Power Reactor Operators
Operate or control nuclear reactors. Move control rods, start and stop equipment, monitor and adjust controls, and record data in logs. Implement emergency procedures when needed. May respond to abnormalities, determine cause, and recommend corrective action.Salary by State
| State Name | Employment | Annual Salary | Hourly Salary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 360 | $112,930 | $54.30 | |
| Georgia | 310 | $125,240 | $60.21 | |
| Illinois | 340 | $119,640 | $57.52 | |
| Louisiana | 180 | $99,830 | $48.00 | |
| Michigan | 160 | $119,770 | $57.58 | |
| Nebraska | 90 | $91,590 | $44.03 | |
| New York | 250 | $117,680 | $56.58 | |
| North Carolina | $111,040 | $53.39 | ||
| Ohio | 70 | $117,000 | $56.25 | |
| Tennessee | 340 | $103,900 | $49.95 | |
| Washington | 30 | $108,230 | $52.04 |
Education
The programs listed below are typically the education paths that can land you this kind of job.
A program that prepares individuals to apply scientific principles and technical skills in support of research scientists and operating engineers engaged in the running of nuclear reactors, and in nuclear materials processing and disposal. Includes instruction in basic nuclear physics and nuclear engineering, monitoring and safety procedures, radioactive materials handling and disposal, equipment maintenance and operation, and record keeping.
Post-Baccalaureate Certification
Three Rivers Community College
Norwich, CT
Associate Degree
Siena Heights University
Adrian, MI
Bachelor's Degree
State Technical College of Missouri
Linn, MO
Associate Degree
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$111,220 per yearNational average salaryDecliningJob growth rate
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High school diploma or equivalentTypical education requirement
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Long-term on-the-job trainingTypical on-the-job training requirement
Educational Attainment
The following chart shows the highest education level completed by those working as nuclear power reactor operators.
- Less than high school 2%
- High school graduate 30%
- College dropout 30%
- Associate’s degree 18%
- Bachelor’s degree 16%
- Master’s degree 2%
- Doctorate degree 0%
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