Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of advanced technology and energy conservation, the need for Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineers is more pressing than ever.

As nuclear technology continues to evolve, there is a growing demand for capable professionals who can ensure the safety and efficiency of our nuclear processes and systems.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricate aspects of nuclear criticality safety engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineers ensure that the handling and processing of nuclear materials are conducted in a safe and controlled manner.

Their primary aim is to prevent nuclear criticality accidents that can lead to uncontrolled nuclear chain reactions.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating nuclear facility designs, operations, and procedures to ensure safety standards are met
• Conducting criticality safety assessments and developing criticality safety controls
• Developing and implementing nuclear criticality safety policies and procedures
• Performing nuclear criticality safety analyses and calculations using specialized software tools
• Preparing and reviewing safety analysis reports for nuclear facilities
• Identifying potential criticality hazards and recommending corrective actions
• Maintaining knowledge of relevant nuclear regulations and industry standards
• Conducting training sessions on nuclear criticality safety for facility personnel
• Responding to nuclear criticality accidents and incidents, and participating in emergency response planning and exercises

 

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer to ensure the safety and regulatory compliance of our nuclear facilities.

Responsibilities include assessing criticality safety risks, developing safety procedures, and conducting inspections and tests.

As a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer, you will play a crucial role in maintaining a safe working environment and ensuring compliance with nuclear safety regulations and standards.

Our ideal candidate has an in-depth understanding of nuclear physics, criticality safety analysis techniques, and regulatory requirements related to nuclear safety.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform criticality safety analyses and develop safety procedures
• Identify potential safety hazards and implement corrective actions
• Conduct regular inspections and tests to ensure compliance with safety regulations
• Review and approve nuclear system designs and modifications
• Conduct training sessions on nuclear safety procedures
• Monitor radiation levels and maintain records for regulatory reporting
• Collaborate with other engineers and safety personnel to enhance safety measures

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer or a similar role in nuclear safety
• In-depth knowledge of nuclear physics and criticality safety analysis techniques
• Familiarity with nuclear safety regulations and standards
• Ability to use criticality safety analysis software
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and training skills
• BSc degree in Nuclear Engineering or a related field
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid time off
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer
• Work Environment: This role typically works in a nuclear power plant or research facility. Safety measures and protocols are adhered to at all times. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Nuclear Safety Manager or Director of Nuclear Safety.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Do?

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineers are specialized professionals who work in the nuclear industry.

They work in research facilities, nuclear power plants, or companies involved in the manufacturing or handling of nuclear materials.

Their main responsibility is to ensure the safe handling, storage, and transport of nuclear materials.

This involves conducting criticality safety evaluations and analyses, developing criticality safety controls, and reviewing and approving procedures involving nuclear materials.

These engineers design safety systems and protocols to prevent nuclear chain reactions that could lead to uncontrolled releases of nuclear energy.

They use computer models to simulate and predict the behavior of nuclear materials under different conditions.

They also provide training to other employees on criticality safety practices and procedures, and ensure compliance with all relevant nuclear safety regulations and standards.

In case of any incidents or accidents involving nuclear materials, Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineers are responsible for investigating and reporting on the causes, and implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

They also participate in the design and review of facilities that handle nuclear materials, ensuring that they are designed with criticality safety in mind.

This may include the layout of the facility, the materials used, and the equipment installed.

In addition, these engineers often collaborate with other professionals, such as radiation protection personnel, nuclear engineers, and health physicists, to ensure the overall safety of nuclear facilities and operations.

 

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A competent Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer should possess the qualifications and skills that correspond to the job responsibilities, such as:

• Extensive knowledge of nuclear physics and engineering principles to understand and control nuclear reactions.
• Exceptional mathematical and analytical abilities to perform complex calculations regarding nuclear reactions and safety measures.
• Familiarity with nuclear safety standards and regulations to ensure all operations and procedures are compliant with the law and safety protocols.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify and address potential safety risks or malfunctions in nuclear operations.
• Strong communication skills to clearly explain nuclear safety procedures, potential risks, and mitigation measures to colleagues, management, and regulatory bodies.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively within a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and other professionals.
• Attention to detail to ensure that all aspects of nuclear operations are conducted according to stringent safety standards.
• Technical skills for the use and maintenance of various nuclear measurement and safety equipment.

 

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level nuclear criticality safety engineers may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through a co-op or internship program within a nuclear plant, research facility, or related industry.

It is preferable for these individuals to gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Nuclear Engineer Intern, Junior Nuclear Safety Analyst, or other related nuclear industry roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often advance their technical skills and knowledge in entry-level nuclear engineering roles, focusing on areas like reactor physics, radiation protection, and nuclear criticality safety.

They can also gain valuable insights into nuclear power plant operations and safety regulations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in nuclear engineering and safety have a deep understanding of nuclear safety regulations and have handled responsibilities such as conducting safety analyses, developing criticality safety evaluations, and implementing nuclear safety measures.

These professionals may have also led teams or held managerial roles, making them suitable for senior or leadership roles within the industry.

Notably, in addition to the job experience, all nuclear criticality safety engineers must have a strong educational background, typically a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering or a related field.

Higher-level positions may also require advanced degrees or professional certifications.

 

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering, physics, or a related field.

This course of study provides an understanding of nuclear physics, thermodynamics, and materials science, which are fundamental to the role.

They also gain practical experience in laboratories to handle advanced technical equipment and radiation safely.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in nuclear engineering or a related field, particularly for roles with more complex or specialized duties.

This advanced degree allows for further study into specific areas of nuclear engineering, such as criticality safety or nuclear reactor design.

In addition to formal education, nuclear criticality safety engineers should have a strong understanding of nuclear criticality safety standards, radiation protection guidelines, and emergency response protocols.

A professional engineer (PE) license may also be required for some positions, especially those with a higher level of responsibility.

The licensing process includes passing two comprehensive exams and gaining several years of work experience.

Due to the rapidly evolving nature of nuclear technology, ongoing education and training are essential for nuclear criticality safety engineers.

These professionals often attend seminars, workshops, and training programs to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and safety regulations in their field.

Some engineers may also pursue certification from organizations like the American Nuclear Society (ANS) to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the field.

 

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Salary Expectations

A Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer earns an average salary of $86,471 (USD) per year.

The salary can vary based on factors such as the individual’s level of expertise, educational qualifications, and geographical location.

 

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer need?

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering, physics, or a related field.

Most employers also prefer candidates with a master’s degree and some relevant work experience.

To work on certain projects, they may need to obtain security clearance.

 

What are the daily duties of a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer?

The daily duties of a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer vary greatly depending on the project.

They may spend their day evaluating nuclear facility designs, developing safety procedures, performing safety analysis, or responding to incidents.

They often collaborate with other scientists and engineers, and may need to present their findings to non-technical audiences.

 

What skills does a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer need?

Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineers must have a deep understanding of nuclear physics and engineering principles.

They also need strong analytical skills to evaluate complex systems and identify potential problems.

Good communication skills are important, as they often need to explain technical concepts to non-technical audiences.

Attention to detail is critical in this role, as errors can have serious consequences.

 

What makes a good Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer?

A good Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer has a deep understanding of nuclear science, is detail-oriented, and can identify potential problems before they occur.

They must also be able to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences, from other scientists to government officials.

They must be able to work well in a team and have a commitment to ongoing learning, as the field is constantly evolving.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer?

Due to the specialized nature of this role, hiring a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer can be challenging.

There are relatively few professionals with the necessary qualifications and experience.

Employers may need to offer competitive salaries and benefits to attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the intricate world of being a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about managing nuclear processes.

It’s about ensuring a safe and sustainable future, one radiation safety measure at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer job description template and real-life scenarios, you’re ready to step forward.

But why halt the momentum?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next stage to creating laser-sharp job listings or perfecting your resume to precision.

Remember:

Every safety measure contributes to a greater purpose.

Let’s secure that future. Together.

How to Become a Nuclear Criticality Safety Engineer (Complete Guide)

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