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Nuclear Engineer
Industry: Energy
Area: Nuclear
Nuclear Engineers make sure that the reactor core is configured and assembled correctly--according to the laws of reactor physics and heat transfer fluid dynamics--to use the nuclear fuel most efficiently and safety while producing electricity. They specify the fuel to be ordered, conduct a reload analysis of new fuel according to safety codes, and supervise its receipt of inspection. They also design the reactor shielding and conduct periodic surveillance tests to ensure that fuel limits are not exceeded and specidy and monitor tests on potential new fuel. Finally, they support the plant's staff in general troubleshooting and assessing operating abnormalities. They are also known as fuel engineers.
Work Settings
A nuclear power plant is not all that different from coal, oil, or gas fired plant. The Nuclear Regalatory Commission (NRC), part of our government, licenses the use of nuclear material and inspects users to make sure they follow rules for safety.
Education
Graduate education is a prerequisite for employment as a design or research nuclear engineer, Typically, the educational requirements for an operating engineer are less rigorous: A bachelor's degree in nuclear engineering is one qualification.
Job Outlook
Nuclear engineers are expected to have good opportunities because the small number if nuclear engineering graduates is likely to be in rough balances with the number of job openings.
Salary
The average starting salary for Nuclear Engineers at the BS degree level is $51,000-- for MS degree level the avaerage starting salary is $58,000. Wages for experienced engineers vary widely from $61,000 to $115,000.
Work Schedule
Many engineers work a standard 40-hour week. At times, deadlines or design standards may bring extra pressure to a job, requiring engineers to work longer hours.