A nuclear safety engineer’s job is a rewarding career responsible for ensuring a nuclear facility’s safety and security. The job requires an extensive background in engineering, nuclear science, and related fields such as physics, chemistry, or mathematics. Working in the nuclear power industry is highly specialized, with several nuclear safety jobs and career opportunities.
The critical role of a nuclear safety engineer is to ensure that all safety and regulatory guidelines are met in the production of nuclear energy, as well as the operation of power plants and other nuclear facilities. The safety engineer must assess any potential risks associated with nuclear energy generation while also controlling and monitoring the impact on the environment from the nuclear power plants.
To become a nuclear safety engineer, an individual typically must pursue a degree in nuclear engineering, physics, or chemistry. After this, a position in a Ph.D. program is likely necessary to earn a position as a nuclear safety engineer. A master’s degree in one of these fields is also needed, so courses in relevant specialized fields like thermodynamics, radiation physics, and nuclear materials will be integral.
Most positions in the nuclear field require prior laboratory experience and a valid security clearance. Working as an intern first is highly recommended for a career in a nuclear safety engineering role. In addition, other resources such as technical certification classes and attending nuclear conferences can benefit a potential nuclear safety engineer.