Reactor Engineer Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Reactor engineers design, analyze, and optimize nuclear reactor systems for power plants, research facilities, and naval applications. The specialized nature of reactor engineering, requiring nuclear engineering degrees, radiological safety expertise, and advanced thermal-hydraulics knowledge, makes most positions specialty occupation eligible for H-1B visa, E-3 visa, and TN visa sponsorship. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
Find Reactor Engineer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 14+ Reactor Engineer jobs
See all Reactor Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Reactor Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsJob Posting End Date
06-12-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The Reactor Engineer will have the following tasks:
- Monitor reactor core operation and perform applicable testing, including flux mapping, start-up physics testing, and power ascension testing.
- Develop reactivity plans for power maneuvers.
- Assist with the performance of fuel inspections.
- Provide control room support during significant power changes.
- Perform Radiochemistry analysis as part of fuel performance monitoring.
- Assist with Special Nuclear Material (SNM) accountability.
- Prepare and review procedures associated with reactor core operation and nuclear fuel management.
Please Note: This position is posted in a range, and an offer will be made based on the candidate's qualifications.
Job Description
Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing intermediate level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Technical Expertise: Possesses intermediate level knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analysis. Demonstrates competency in analytical techniques necessary to handle assignments of moderate complexity. (e.g., by dividing the problem into component steps, and performing the analysis necessary to complete each step). Exhibits ability to understand interrelationship between systems and component equipment. Demonstrate ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.
- Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entity as necessary to complete routine activities. Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees.
- Planning & Organization Ability: Coordinates the development of input necessary to forecast costs for the routine projects, improvements requisitions, etc. Uses scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Initiates corrective action when project objectives are not being met.
- Problem Solving & Initiative: Resolves and initiates solutions to routine problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin. Demonstrates ability to identify problems that are beyond the normal routine. Demonstrates ability and desire to seek out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.
- Communication: Develops, reviews, or presents technical reports such as improvement requisitions, studies, and analyses in as clear, concise and effective fashion.
- Interpersonal Skills: Is an active team member. Networks with peers inside and outside the AEP system. Identifies key stakeholders. Uses informal network to get things done. Resolves conflict, builds consensus.
- Decision Making: Makes decisions subject to review within established policies and procedures. Makes decisions that affect the work of the team. Aware of risks. Demonstrates the ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.
- Business Awareness & Characteristics: Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit. Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process. Is proficient in the application and use of economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Develops an understanding of utility regulation and financing.
What We're Looking For:
Nuclear Engineer/ Salary Grade 7: $87,633 - $109,544
- Has typically acquired 2 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET. Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET may be considered for entry into the organization at this level. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Acceptable alternative:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.
- VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET accredited program.
Nuclear Engineer, Senior/ Salary Grade 8: $98,993 - $128,689
- Has typically acquired 4 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited ABET; or 2 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET. Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico is encouraged and preferred. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Acceptable alternative:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program. Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
- VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET accredited program.
Nuclear Engineer, Principal/ Salary Grade 9: $116,255 - $151,132
- Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET. Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico* is required for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP. ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Acceptable alternative:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program. Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
- VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET accredited program.
Must establish and maintain a permanent residence within a 45-minute safe drive time to the D.C. Cook Nuclear Power Plant.
What You'll Get:
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
The power of AEP comes from our valued team of unique employees...the best in the business! We're proud to be one of the largest electric energy companies in the U.S., powering over 5 million homes and businesses, spanning across 11 states. We’re passionate about making an innovative difference in the communities we serve. We’re powering the future – today!
American Electric Power (On-Site)
$87K- $151K / Year
AEPCareers
LI-ONSITE
AEPIM
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-007
Compensation Range:
$87,633.00 - $151,132.50
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
Job Posting End Date
06-12-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The Reactor Engineer will have the following tasks:
- Monitor reactor core operation and perform applicable testing, including flux mapping, start-up physics testing, and power ascension testing.
- Develop reactivity plans for power maneuvers.
- Assist with the performance of fuel inspections.
- Provide control room support during significant power changes.
- Perform Radiochemistry analysis as part of fuel performance monitoring.
- Assist with Special Nuclear Material (SNM) accountability.
- Prepare and review procedures associated with reactor core operation and nuclear fuel management.
Please Note: This position is posted in a range, and an offer will be made based on the candidate's qualifications.
Job Description
Responsible to the assigned supervisor for performing intermediate level engineering work activities and projects requiring the application of engineering knowledge in a safe, effective, efficient and economic accomplishment of assigned objectives.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Technical Expertise: Possesses intermediate level knowledge and performs varied assignments with proficiency in the application of theory and analytical techniques to solve diverse problems and complete extensive analysis. Demonstrates competency in analytical techniques necessary to handle assignments of moderate complexity. (e.g., by dividing the problem into component steps, and performing the analysis necessary to complete each step). Exhibits ability to understand interrelationship between systems and component equipment. Demonstrate ability to analyze and recommend enhancements to business processes.
- Leadership & Guidance: Coordinates work activities of others within the work group, department, or other corporate entity as necessary to complete routine activities. Performs routine engineering activity with minimum direction from higher-level employees. Follows policies, practices, standards and rules of the company and those regulations and procedures required by external agencies. Provides training and guidance to lower-level employees.
- Planning & Organization Ability: Coordinates the development of input necessary to forecast costs for the routine projects, improvements requisitions, etc. Uses scheduling techniques (CPM, PERT, flow charts, etc.) for budget and planning activities. Initiates corrective action when project objectives are not being met.
- Problem Solving & Initiative: Resolves and initiates solutions to routine problems which usually require additional definition/clarification before analysis can begin. Demonstrates ability to identify problems that are beyond the normal routine. Demonstrates ability and desire to seek out opportunities and embrace new ideas and approaches.
- Communication: Develops, reviews, or presents technical reports such as improvement requisitions, studies, and analyses in as clear, concise and effective fashion.
- Interpersonal Skills: Is an active team member. Networks with peers inside and outside the AEP system. Identifies key stakeholders. Uses informal network to get things done. Resolves conflict, builds consensus.
- Decision Making: Makes decisions subject to review within established policies and procedures. Makes decisions that affect the work of the team. Aware of risks. Demonstrates the ability to extrapolate beyond known facts to reach logical conclusions.
- Business Awareness & Characteristics: Understands AEP's organizational structure and the specific role and responsibility of their individual organizational unit. Demonstrates an understanding of the budgeting and approval process. Is proficient in the application and use of economic analysis techniques in problem solving. Develops an understanding of utility regulation and financing.
What We're Looking For:
Nuclear Engineer/ Salary Grade 7: $87,633 - $109,544
- Has typically acquired 2 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET. Individuals with a Master's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET may be considered for entry into the organization at this level. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Acceptable alternative:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program.
- VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET accredited program.
Nuclear Engineer, Senior/ Salary Grade 8: $98,993 - $128,689
- Has typically acquired 4 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited ABET; or 2 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET. Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico is encouraged and preferred. *ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Acceptable alternative:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program. Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
- VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET accredited program.
Nuclear Engineer, Principal/ Salary Grade 9: $116,255 - $151,132
- Has typically acquired 8 or more years of related engineering experience along with a Bachelor's degree in engineering in a program accredited by ABET or 6 years of related engineering experience along with a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a program accredited by ABET. Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in any U.S. state or Puerto Rico* is required for this position unless approval to waive this requirement is given by the organization's EVP. ABET - Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Acceptable alternative:
- Bachelor's degree in engineering (non-ABET) plus a Master's degree or PhD in engineering from a university with an ABET accredited Bachelor's program. Confirmation is required to ensure the PE obtained in Puerto Rico aligns with NCEES standards.
- VP or above may waive the requirement for a degree from a university with a non-ABET accredited program.
Must establish and maintain a permanent residence within a 45-minute safe drive time to the D.C. Cook Nuclear Power Plant.
What You'll Get:
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
The power of AEP comes from our valued team of unique employees...the best in the business! We're proud to be one of the largest electric energy companies in the U.S., powering over 5 million homes and businesses, spanning across 11 states. We’re passionate about making an innovative difference in the communities we serve. We’re powering the future – today!
American Electric Power (On-Site)
$87K- $151K / Year
AEPCareers
LI-ONSITE
AEPIM
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-007
Compensation Range:
$87,633.00 - $151,132.50
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
Hear about it first! Get job alerts by email. Log in to your Candidate Home Account today! If you don't have an account, you can create one.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
See all Reactor Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Reactor Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Reactor Engineer
Emphasize nuclear security clearance pathways
Many reactor engineering roles require security clearances, which are typically restricted to U.S. citizens. Target positions at universities, civilian nuclear facilities, or private research companies that work on unclassified projects.
Highlight your reactor physics background
Nuclear engineering degrees with reactor physics, neutronics, or thermal-hydraulics coursework directly support specialty occupation requirements. Emphasize specific reactor design codes, safety analysis software, and neutron transport modeling experience in applications.
Target growing SMR development companies
Small modular reactor startups like NuScale, TerraPower, and Kairos Power are expanding rapidly and more likely to sponsor visas than established utilities with existing engineering teams.
Consider research reactor positions
University research reactors often have fewer security restrictions than commercial power plants. These positions typically involve reactor operations, experimental design, and student training, all qualifying for visa sponsorship.
Demonstrate MCNP and ORIGEN expertise
Proficiency with specialized nuclear analysis codes like MCNP for neutronics calculations and ORIGEN for fuel depletion analysis strengthens your specialty occupation case and differentiates you from general engineers.
Apply through nuclear consulting firms
Engineering consultancies like Westinghouse, Framatome, and Sargent & Lundy often sponsor visas for reactor engineers to work on multiple client projects, avoiding single-employer security clearance barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do reactor engineers qualify for H-1B specialty occupation requirements?
Yes. Reactor engineering positions typically require nuclear engineering degrees and specialized knowledge of reactor physics, thermal-hydraulics, and safety systems that clearly meet specialty occupation criteria. The role's technical complexity and degree requirements make H-1B visa approval highly likely for qualified candidates.
Can international reactor engineers work on nuclear projects without security clearance?
Yes, but with limitations. Many civilian nuclear facilities, university research reactors, and private companies work on unclassified reactor projects that don't require security clearance. Small modular reactor development and nuclear consulting work often remain accessible to visa holders.
What degree backgrounds support reactor engineer visa applications?
Nuclear engineering degrees provide the strongest support, but mechanical engineering with nuclear concentration, chemical engineering with reactor emphasis, or physics with nuclear specialization can also qualify. Coursework in reactor physics, neutronics, and thermal-hydraulics strengthens the specialty occupation case significantly.
How to find Reactor Engineer jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Reactor Engineer jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international professionals with sponsoring employers. Focus your search on nuclear power companies, chemical manufacturers, and energy corporations that commonly hire reactor engineers on H-1B, O-1 visa, or EB-2 visas. These companies often sponsor international talent due to specialized skill requirements in nuclear engineering and reactor operations.
Are there TN visa options for Canadian and Mexican reactor engineers?
Yes, under the "Engineer" category. TN visa approval requires a nuclear or related engineering degree and a job offer for reactor design, analysis, or safety work. The role must clearly fall within professional engineering duties rather than technician-level reactor operations.
Which reactor engineering employers are most likely to sponsor visas?
Small modular reactor startups, nuclear consulting firms, and university research programs have the highest sponsorship rates. National laboratories and established utilities are less likely due to security clearance requirements, while engineering consultancies like Westinghouse regularly sponsor international nuclear engineers.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Reactor Engineer jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.