Nuclear Engineers
O*NET 17-2161.00 · SOC 17-2161
Nuclear Engineer is a solid career choice. Median pay is $134k a year with +0.4% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 800 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Design nuclear reactor cores for power generation plants.
- →Monitor radiation levels to ensure plant safety compliance.
- →Analyze nuclear fuel performance data and usage cycles.
- →Develop procedures for safe handling of radioactive materials.
- →Investigate equipment malfunctions in nuclear reactor systems.
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Nuclear Engineer roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Nuclear Engineer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Nuclear Engineer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Nuclear Engineer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Nuclear Engineers is projected to grow 0.4% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·28% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·25% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Nuclear Engineer make?
The median Nuclear Engineer earns $134k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Nuclear Engineer jobs?
Our model puts Nuclear Engineer at 38 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 28% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; 25% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Nuclear Engineer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 0.4% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 800 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Nuclear Engineer?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Nuclear Engineer roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Nuclear Engineer?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Nuclear Engineer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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