O*NET Career Intelligence

Nuclear Power Reactor Operators

SOC 51-8011.00

Operate or control nuclear reactors. Move control rods, start and stop equipment, monitor and adjust controls, and record data in logs. Implement emergency procedures when needed. May respond to abnormalities, determine cause, and recommend corrective action.

Green Occupation Zone 3 Production

Skills

Knowledge

Job Zone

Yes

Green

Top Skills 8

Reading Comprehension

4.0

Operation Monitoring

4.0

Operation and Control

4.0

Active Listening

3.9

Critical Thinking

3.9

Monitoring

3.9

Complex Problem Solving

3.8

Writing

3.5

Knowledge Areas 8

Physics

4.1

Mechanical

3.9

Public Safety and Security

3.7

Mathematics

3.6

Engineering and Technology

3.5

Chemistry

3.4

Design

3.0

English Language

2.9

Key Tasks

1Operate nuclear power reactors in accordance with policies and procedures to protect workers from radiation and to ensure environmental safety.

2Adjust controls to position rod and to regulate flux level, reactor period, coolant temperature, or rate of power flow, following standard procedures.

3Develop or implement actions such as lockouts, tagouts, or clearances to allow equipment to be safely repaired.

4Respond to system or unit abnormalities, diagnosing the cause, and recommending or taking corrective action.

5Monitor all systems for normal running conditions, performing activities such as checking gauges to assess output or the effects of generator loading on other equipment.

Also Known As

Control Room Agent Control Room Officer Control Room Operator Control Room Supervisor Equipment Operator Licensed Nuclear Control Room Operator Licensed Reactor Operator Nuclear Control Operator Nuclear Control Room Non-Licensed Operator Nuclear Control Room Operator