Nuclear Technicians

Nuclear technicians assist physicists, engineers, and other scientists in nuclear power generation and production activities. They may operate, maintain, or provide quality control for nuclear testing and research equipment and monitor radiation levels.

Duties

Nuclear technicians typically do the following:

• Monitor, test, and maintain equipment and systems used in nuclear power generation or laboratories
• Operate and maintain radiation monitoring equipment
• Measure the levels and types of radiation produced by nuclear systems
• Collect samples of air, water, and soil and test for radioactive contamination
• Respond to incidents of radiological contamination and issue corrective action
• Instruct personnel on radiation safety procedures and warn them of hazardous conditions

Nuclear technicians monitor the performance of systems and the levels of radiation in nuclear power plants, water systems, and the surrounding environment. They make calculations to measure levels of radiation and radioactive contamination. They monitor efficiency and ensure safety by setting up, calibrating, maintaining, and operating radiation detection instruments. They also may recommend radioactive decontamination plans and safety procedures for facility personnel.

Nuclear technicians’ duties may vary, depending on where they work. For example, technicians who work in nuclear power plants ensure that reactors and other equipment operate safely and efficiently. Technicians who work in laboratories help nuclear physicists, nuclear engineers, and other scientists conduct research to develop new technologies.

Those who work in waste management and treatment facilities monitor the disposal, recycling, and storage of nuclear waste.

Nuclear technicians held about 6,000 jobs in 2024. The largest employers of nuclear technicians were as follows:

Most nuclear technicians work in nuclear power plants, where they typically work in offices and control rooms. Nuclear technicians may need to measure radiation levels onsite, requiring them to visit plants and the areas around them, in all types of weather. Working around nuclear reactors may involve exposure to high temperatures. Some nuclear technicians work under the direction of scientists and engineers in laboratories.

Nuclear technicians must take precautions when working with or around nuclear materials. They often have to wear protective gear and special badges that indicate whether they have been exposed to radiation. Protective gear may include hardhats, hearing and eye protection, and respirators.

Work Schedules

Most nuclear technicians work full time. In power plants, which operate 24 hours a day, technicians may work variable schedules that include nights, holidays, and weekends. Occasionally, they also may need to work overtime. In laboratories, technicians typically work during normal business hours.

Nuclear technicians typically need an associate’s degree in either nuclear science or a nuclear-related technology. Some enter the occupation with a high school diploma or postsecondary nondegree award plus experience, such as from the military or an apprenticeship. Once hired, nuclear technicians typically receive extensive on-the-job training.

The median annual wage for nuclear technicians was $104,240 in May 2024.

Employment of nuclear technicians is projected to grow 8 percent from 2024 to 2034, decline.

About 700 openings for nuclear technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.