Nuclear Reactor Operators and Technicians

Questions regarding the safety of nuclear power, the environmental effects of nuclear plants, and the safe disposal of radioactive waste have been of public concern since the occurrence of major accidents at the Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima Daiichi plants. A Gallup poll reported that, in 2023, 55 percent of U.S. adults said that they “strongly” or “somewhat” favored the use of nuclear energy. Another 44 percent of Americans “strongly” or “somewhat” opposed such use.

The U.S. Department of Labor forecasts that employment for nuclear technicians and nuclear power reactor operators will decline by 6 percent and 10 percent, respectively, from 2023 through 2033. New job openings will occur as a result of retirements or transfers to other jobs. Many sites have applied for permits, and if approved, these sites will need to be staffed.