engineering degrees

What is a Nuclear Engineer's Job?

By David McKinney 17 June, 2023 3 mins read

A nuclear engineer can be found in an office or at a power station. No matter where they work nuclear science and tech are moving forward. Although some may feel negative about the nuclear industry, they are in the minority. Working in this field is not without its positive aspects.

Outlook for the Job

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for nuclear engineers is positive. This field is expected grow at a rate of 4 percent per annum until 2020, though not as rapidly as other industries. However, there may be a reduction in the number of nuclear engineers in the future, as the nuclear industry is expected to become increasingly dependent on cheaper natural gas as a source of electricity. In addition, more medical applications of nuclear science are likely to emerge, increasing the need for qualified engineers in this field.

Nuclear engineering could be a career choice if you are passionate about science and excel at mathematics and statistics. There are many opportunities available in this field. Your area of specialization could lead you to become a manager, supervisor, or salesperson. But remember to stay current on your continuing education and professional certifications. Job growth in this field is unpredictable, but there are several career options for nuclear engineers.

Education requirements

For students who are interested in becoming nuclear engineers, there are many options. A four-year degree program can be completed at an accredited university. Students can also complete a senior project at work while they are employed. Dual-degree programs in nuclear engineering can be offered by some schools. Students can earn their bachelor's or master's degrees in as little as five years. The core courses in radiochemistry, reactor analysis, and radiochemistry are typical of a curriculum for nuclear engineers. A variety of advanced courses are offered in medical physics and enterprise management. Many students are required to complete research-intensive thesis assignments.

Nuclear engineers may become technical specialists, managers and supervisors depending on the job they are looking for. However, to be competitive in this field, nuclear engineers should continue to expand their knowledge and maintain their professional certifications. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' estimates, there will be a decline in the number of jobs in this area between 2020 and 2030.

Environment for work

Although the work environment for nuclear engineers is varied, most involve working in teams. They supervise technicians and lower-educated staff. They may also have some managerial responsibility, including overseeing certain aspects of a larger research project. They might also be responsible to train other employees. This is a field where safety is of paramount importance. Radiation exposure is a concern for nuclear engineers.

Although the work environment of nuclear engineers is technical, they also have creative opportunities. Many of them work in design engineering. These engineers create new equipment and devices that produce nuclear power. Other people work in nuclear research. They develop new equipment or systems for scientists to better understand matter and energy.

Salary

A career in nuclear engineering typically begins with graduate trainee positions. You will usually work slowly and steadily. Based on your experiences, you may be able to move up to a management or supervisory job. You can eventually choose to specialize in a specific area of the field. No matter what your chosen field is, nuclear engineers should be ready to continue their education and training.

Nuclear engineers can work for a variety of employers. Their location may determine whether they work for a company or government agency. They may also work in manufacturing or in the nuclear power industry.

FAQ

What degree do I need to become an engineer?"

A bachelor's degree is not required to become an engineer. However, many employers prefer applicants with degrees. If you don't have one, you can always take some classes online to get your degree.

What is a mechanical engineer?

A mechanical engineer designs machines, vehicles, tools, products, and processes used by humans.

To solve real-world problems, mechanical engineers combine mathematics, physics and engineering principles.

A mechanical engineer could be involved with product development, maintenance, quality control and research.

What is a typical day like for an engineer?

Engineers often spend their time working with projects. These projects might include improving existing products or developing new ones.

They may work on research projects that aim to improve the world around us.

They could also be involved creating new technologies such computers, mobile phones and planes, rockets, or other devices.

Engineers must use their imagination and creativity to complete these tasks. They need to be able think outside the box and find creative solutions to problems.

They will be expected to brainstorm ideas and create concepts. They will also need to test their ideas using various tools, such as laser cutters, CNC machine, 3D printers, and computer-aided designing software.

Engineers must also communicate effectively in order to present their ideas to others. Engineers must create reports and presentations in order to share their findings with clients and colleagues.

They will need to use their time efficiently in order to do the maximum possible work in the least amount of time.

No matter what kind of engineering you choose you must be creative, imaginative and organized.

Statistics

Typically required education: Bachelor's degree in aeronautical engineering Job growth outlook through 2030: 8% Aerospace engineers specialize in designing spacecraft, aircraft, satellites, and missiles. (snhu.edu)
8% Civil engineers solve infrastructure problems. (snhu.edu)