Nuclear Engineers

Because the nuclear engineering field is so young, the time is ripe for technological developments, and engineers must therefore keep abreast of new research and technology throughout their careers. Advancement for engineers is contingent on continuing education, research activity, and on-the-job expertise.

As with other engineering disciplines, a hierarchy of workers exists, with the chief engineer having overall authority over managers and project engineers. This is true whether you are working in research, design, production, sales, or teaching. After gaining a certain amount of experience, engineers may apply for positions in supervision and management.

Advancement may also bring recognition in the form of grants, scholarships, fellowships, and awards. For example, the American Nuclear Society (ANS) has established the Landis Young Member Engineering Achievement Award to recognize outstanding work performed by members. To be eligible for this award, you must be an ANS member, younger than 40 years old, and demonstrate effective application of engineering knowledge that results in a concept, design, analysis method, or product used in nuclear power research and development or in a manufacturing application.