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Nuclear Technicians

Runs the machines that generate electricity.

Typical education to startAssociate's degree
Job outlook2025–2035: +1%
Median pay$110,240 a year (2025)
Interest codeRCI Realistic, Conventional, Investigative

Read the full guide

Power plant operators control and monitor boilers, turbines, generators and reactors from control rooms, and keep equipment running safely around the clock. Nuclear reactor operators need a federal license.

Open the power plant operator guide

The guide checks the courses against your plan, with things to try each year. Free account needed.

High school courses that build toward it

  • Physics · Science

    Builds physics, which this job uses.

  • Calculus · Math

    Builds math, which this job uses.

  • Computer Science Principles · Computer Science

    Builds computers and electronics, which this job uses.

  • Engineering Design · Career and Technical

    Builds engineering, which this job uses.

  • English 10 · English

    Builds reading and writing, which this job uses.

  • Physical Education · Health and PE

    Builds teaching and training, which this job uses.

Ranked by how much the job relies on what each course teaches, from O*NET's knowledge ratings. Your school's own courses and the counselor have the final word.

Nuclear Technicians on O*NET OnLine · O*NET 31.0 (U.S. Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0); BLS Employment Projections 2025.