engineering

What does a nuclear engineer do?

By David McKinney 31 May, 2023 3 mins read

A Nuclear engineer may be based in an office, at a power station, or even on a construction site. 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. This field has many positive aspects.

Outlook for the Job

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (Bolster of Labor Statistics), the job outlook is positive for nuclear engineers. This field is expected to see growth of 4 percent per year until 2020, although not as much as other fields. There may be a decline in the number of nuclear engineering professionals in the future as the nuclear industry becomes more dependent on cheaper natural gases as a source for electricity. A number of medical applications of nuclear sciences are expected to increase, increasing the demand for qualified engineers in this area.

Nuclear engineering is an excellent career choice for those who have strong scientific interests and are skilled in mathematics and statistics. Fortunately, there are a variety of opportunities in this field. Depending on your area of specialization, you might become a nuclear engineering supervisor or manager, or even go into sales. 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. Students can take a four-year program at an accredited university as well as a senior designing project at their employer. Dual-degree programs for nuclear engineering are offered by some schools. This allows students to get both their bachelor's as well as master's degrees in five year. Typically, a nuclear engineer's curriculum includes core coursework in radiochemistry and reactor analysis. A variety of advanced courses are offered in medical physics and enterprise management. Students often complete research-intensive thesis projects.

Nuclear engineers may become technical specialists, managers and supervisors depending on the job they are looking for. However, in order to remain competitive, nuclear engineers must continually expand their knowledge of the field 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.

Work environment

Although the work environment for nuclear engineers is varied, most involve working in teams. They often supervise technicians or less-educated staff. They may also be responsible to manage larger research projects. They may also be responsible of training employees. Safety is of paramount importance in this field. Nuclear engineers must be cautious about how much radiation they are exposed.

Although it is often technical work, the environment for nuclear engineers can also be creative. 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

Graduate trainee positions are typically the first step to a career as a nuclear engineer. Typically, you will work slowly and steadily. Your experience can help you move into a leadership or supervisory role, depending on how well you do. Eventually, you can choose to specialize in one 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 might also work for the nuclear power industry or manufacturing.

FAQ

What are the jobs of electrical engineers?

They create power systems that can be used by humans.

They are responsible to design, build, test, install, maintain, and repair all types of electrical equipment used by industry, government and residential customers.

They plan and direct the installation of these systems.

An electrical engineer designs and installs electronic circuits and components that convert electricity to useful forms.

What are industrial engineers doing?

Industrial engineers deal with the interplay of things.

Their job is to make sure machinery, plants, and factories are safe and efficient.

They design equipment, controls, operations, and other tools to make it more convenient for workers to do their jobs.

They also ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards.

What does a Chemical Engineer Do?

To develop chemicals, products, technologies, or processes, chemical engineers must combine math, science and engineering.

Chemical engineers can choose to specialize in areas like petroleum refining or pharmaceuticals, food processing, agricultural, textiles and paper, mining, metalurgisty, and power generation.

They work closely alongside scientists and researchers to solve difficult technical challenges.

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)
Job growth outlook through 2030: 9% (snhu.edu)