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.Salary by State
| State Name | Employment | Annual Salary | Hourly Salary | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 170 | $92,120 | $44.29 | |
| Georgia | 330 | $93,780 | $45.09 | |
| Illinois | 200 | $121,020 | $58.18 | |
| Michigan | 190 | $116,160 | $55.85 | |
| New York | 180 | $107,210 | $51.54 | |
| North Carolina | $99,710 | $47.94 | ||
| Ohio | 240 | $84,190 | $40.48 | |
| Pennsylvania | 510 | $92,630 | $44.53 | |
| South Carolina | 380 | $91,700 | $44.09 | |
| Tennessee | 250 | $78,370 | $37.68 | |
| Texas | 180 | $93,220 | $44.82 | |
| Utah | 40 | $53,050 | $25.51 | |
| Virginia | $93,740 | $45.07 |
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 basic engineering, knowledge and technical skills in support of engineer and other professionals operating nuclear facilities and engaged in nuclear applications and safety procedures. Includes instruction in physics, nuclear science, nuclear systems, nuclear plant and systems design, radiological safety, radiological applications, and applicable law and regulations.
A program that prepares individuals to apply scientific principles and technical skills to the operation of industrial and research testing equipment using radioisotopes. Includes instruction in x-ray analysis of materials, nondestructive testing and inspection of materials, and continuous measurement of paper or metal thickness.
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.
Any instructional program in nuclear and industrial radiologic technologies not listed above.
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of health physicists, occupational safety and health specialists, and public health officials, to monitor and control radiation exposure and implement preventive measures in health care, work, and natural environments. Includes instruction in radiation physics, environmental radioactivity, radiological instrumentation, electronics of radiation detection equipment, radioactive waste management and control, safety and handling procedures, decontamination procedures, radioactivity testing and analysis, and communications skills.
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$95,200 per yearNational average salaryDecliningJob growth rate
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Associate's degreeTypical education requirement
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Moderate-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 technicians.
- Less than high school 2%
- High school graduate 21%
- College dropout 21%
- Associate’s degree 12%
- Bachelor’s degree 34%
- Master’s degree 8%
- Doctorate degree 2%
Similar Careers
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Nuclear Power Reactor Operators$111,220 per year Average salaryDecliningJob growth rate
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Power Plant Operators$83,740 per year Average salaryDecliningJob growth rate
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Calibration Technologists and Technicians$62,800 per year Average salaryModerateJob growth rate