Dylan
What job opportunities are available to nuclear engineers?
I'm interested in studying nuclear engineering because (with my limited knowledge) it seems to me to be a great alternative to fossil fuel and nonrenewable energy resources when handled safely, but I feel as though the job market for nuclear engineers is small and there's a very specific niche for those with degrees in nuclear engineering. I'd like to know the odds of finding a job in this field straight from college, and perhaps how difficult earning a degree is compared to other engineering disciplines such as mechanical or chemical? #engineering #nuclear-engineering
2 answers
Michael Barnhart
Michael’s Answer
As the world keeps moving away from fossil fuels, we are finding that the renewable ones just cannot meet the demand. This leaves us with Nuclear Power to fit into the gap until the renewable technology improves. I suspect that will take a very long time.
A great way to get amazing training, for free, in nuclear engineering is to join the US Navy Nuclear Program. They will put you through a very rigorous training program. I did this, then I went to Thomas Edison State College to turn the training into a degree. The industry was dying quickly when I did this and no jobs were to be found. But even if that ends up being the case, having a nuclear engineering degree on your resume makes employers want to know more - it really impresses them. Plus, if you use the Navy route, you will also add Veteran to your resume, that opens a lot of doors as well and gives you many great benefits for the future.
If you choose to not go through the Navy, Penn State has an amazing nuclear engineering program. If nothing else, they will have a lot of useful information to help you decide if that is the correct career path for you. I think we are just entering exciting times for nuclear power in the US!
Ken Simmons
Ken’s Answer
Hi Dylan!
Here is a short video that will allow you to learn a little more about the area:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WuvkQsH_Nk
Here is some data regarding the career area with some forecasts about the future of the field:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/nuclear-engineers.htm
This site contains much useful information about the field and also contains references to professional organizations to which nuclear engineers might belong:
http://www.environmentalscience.org/career/nuclear-engineer
Best of luck! Please keep me informed. i would like to follow your progress!
Thanks a ton! This is great advice!
Dylan
You are welcome! Remember, during the holidays, people in a good and festive and helpful mood. If anyone asks "What are you doing these days,?" Your response should be: "I am exploring the area of nuclear engineering, do you know of anyone that I could talk to to gain information about this area? I do not expect them to know of a job, but I would like to have contact with someone who can give me inside information regarding this field. Any help would be greatly appreciated." You never know who knows whom. You can get very helpful information from the most unexpected sources. Holidays are the best times for networking. The more people you approach, the more opportunities you have for gaining helpful information and making great connections! Best of luck!
Ken Simmons