Careers & Education

A reactor operator, licensed by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, is responsible for operating a reactor’s controls in cooperation with the remainder of the shift team. The reactor operator moves control rods, starts and stops equipment, implements operations procedures, conducts surveillance tests and records data in logs. Operators work in shifts.

The Skills Needed
A reactor operator must have detailed knowledge and understanding of nuclear plant mechanical and electrical systems, technical specifications, government regulations and operating processes and procedures. A reactor operator must be able to generate creative solutions to work situations and maintain high personal standards of performance, responsibility and professionalism.

The Education/Experience Needed
A high school diploma or GED is required, as well as up to five years of experience as a non-licensed operator and one year of training. An Associates or Bachelor’s Degree may be preferred. A reactor operator must have a valid U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Reactor Operator license.

On-the-Job Training
A reactor operator receives continuous on-the-job training, as well as the formal training needed to prepare for license examination by the NRC.

A Competitive Salary
The median salary for a reactor operator is $77,782. Actual earnings may be higher due to overtime, bonuses and incentive compensation.

Source for salary data: EAPDIS, April 2007.