Careers & Education

Be Part of a Growing Work Force

Careers in the nuclear energy industry offer challenging work, competitive salaries (see "Sample Job Descriptions and Salaries" for salary ranges) and benefits, and opportunities for advancement. Nuclear professionals help to protect the environment by supporting the nation’s emission-free nuclear power plants, which provide nearly 20 percent of U.S. electricity.

Enjoy a Challenging Career in Advanced Technology

The safe and reliable operation of the nation’s 104 nuclear plants relies on people of commitment and integrity acting as stewards of public health and safety, and the environment.

Success in this mission over the past 30 years has resulted in a demand for new nuclear plants to help meet the country’s need for reliable, economic and emission-free electricity. With this demand comes the need for individuals who possess a wide variety of knowledge, skills and abilities, and have a desire to learn.

Highly advanced technology and complex industrial processes present challenges that can change daily. Every work day is unique, with opportunities to resolve problems and improve processes. Opportunities may be individual or in team environments. Creativity and responsibility are rewarded with career advancement and professional development as well. Salaries are among the most competitive in the country.

What Is Driving Recruitment Efforts?

Recruitment of the future work force is a major focus for the U.S. nuclear energy industry. Several factors are driving this.

New Nuclear Power Plants
Companies are pursuing plans to build more than 30 new reactors in several areas of the country. These projects will need construction personnel, engineers, health physicists, power plant operators, maintenance staff and many other disciplines.

New Nuclear Plant Status

License Renewal
Seventy-three of the nation's 104 power reactors have renewed their operating licenses and will continue to produce electricity for decades. The other reactors also are expected to renew their licenses. The companies that operate nuclear plants maintain them in excellent condition throughout their life cycles, from replacing small components to major modifications. Operating plants require the same staffing and expertise that new plants coming on line will need.

Retirements Among Existing Work Force
About half the nuclear industry's work force will be eligible to retire during the next 10 years. Along with plans for industry growth, the expected attrition of a large portion of the industry’s total work force has prompted an unprecedented recruitment effort throughout the industry.

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