We use cookies to improve and customise your experience, for analytics and metrics, and to track any purchases you make both on this website and on others. To find out more about the cookies we use see our cookie policy
More info
- Use nuclear science and technology in power generation or in other fields like medicine
- You'll need excellent science and technology skills, and excellent attention to detail
- You may work in an environment where you'll need to follow strict guidelines to protect yourself from radiation exposure
As a nuclear engineer, you'll produce energy for business and domestic use.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
- Designing and building new plants and equipment
- Monitoring and measuring radiation levels
- Carrying out maintenance work
- Making sure that the plant structure meets legal requirements
- Being responsible for security and safety
- Supervising power station technicians
- Planning safe methods of nuclear waste disposal
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
You'll work in laboratories, control rooms or offices and be required to wear protective clothing when dealing with radioactive material.
You'll need
To be a nuclear engineer, you'll need knowledge of maths, engineering science and technology, and physics; thoroughness and attention to detail; thinking and reasoning skills; design skills and knowledge; analytical thinking skills; and excellent verbal communication skills.
You can do a degree in a subject like nuclear engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, maths, physics, or electrical engineering. Some employers may want you to have a relevant postgraduate qualification.
You could also go on a graduate training scheme, like Nuclear Graduates which is run by nuclear industry employees. You'll normally need a science or engineering-based degree to apply.
You could get into the industry through a nuclear scientist engineer degree apprenticeship.
CAREER PROSPECTS
You could move into research, or university teaching. You could also work freelance.
You could also use your knowledge of nuclear technology in other areas, like industrial or academic research and development, diagnosing and treating disease in medicine, and developing and building nuclear-powered submarines.