Nuclear Engineer ID-14032

May 6, 2025

ABOUT

Nuclear technicians, power plant operators, and subsystems specialists are responsible for keeping vital Naval submarines and aircraft carriers running. These highly trained, hands-on professionals perform the complex technical functions that are at the core of sub and carrier capabilities. Their job involves everything from operating nuclear propulsion plant machinery to controlling auxiliary equipment that supports Naval reactors to maintaining various electronic, propulsion, and weapons systems.

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RESPONSIBILITIES

There are three types of Nuclear Operations jobs for enlisted Sailors. Responsibilities depend on your training, interests, and designation. All three of these ratings are eligible to receive up to a $40,000 bonus for first-time enlistment and up to a $100,000 bonus for re-enlistment.

Machinist’s Mate Nuclear (MMN)

Operate and maintain steam turbines and reduction gears used for nuclear ship propulsion and auxiliary machinery such as turbogenerators, pumps, and oil purifiers
Maintain auxiliary machinery outside of main machinery spaces, such as electrohydraulic steering engines, elevators, refrigeration plants, air conditioning systems, and desalinization plants
Operate and maintain compressed gas producing plants
Perform duties in nuclear propulsion plants operating reactor control, propulsion, and power generation systems

Electrician’s Mate Nuclear (EMN)

Responsible for the operation of a ship's electrical power generation systems, lighting systems, electrical equipment, and electrical appliances
Install, operate, adjust, maintain, inspect, test, and repair electrical equipment
Perform maintenance and repair of related electronic equipment
Troubleshoot electric breakers and circuits aboard nuclear-powered ships like aircraft carriers and submarines

Electronics Technician Nuclear (ETN)

Operate and perform maintenance on the electronic systems that make the nuclear reactor on Navy ships run
Calibrate nuclear control rods to generate power aboard submarines and aircraft carriers
Be part of a watch team that enables the fission process, generating steam for propulsion

WORK ENVIRONMENT

As an Enlisted Sailor working in nuclear operations, you’ll have the opportunity to work at sea or ashore. Your assignment could place you in an intense, fast-paced environment aboard a nuclear-powered submarine or aircraft carrier.

TRAINING & ADVANCEMENT

NAVY NUCLEAR FIELD (NF) PROGRAM

Upon completion of initial 7–9 week Recruit Training (known as Boot Camp), those pursuing a Nuclear Operations role report to “A” School for technical training based on their specific job rating, followed by advanced nuclear training.

“A” School for MMNs
The three-month Machinist’s Mate Nuclear (MMN) course in Charleston, SC provides basic knowledge of technical mathematics and the theory and operation of a steam power plant. Students learn to operate tools, test equipment and system components, read blueprints, practice rigging techniques, and perform maintenance procedures. From there, it’s on to NNPS and NPTU (see below).

“A” School for EMNs
The six-month Electrician’s Mate Nuclear (EMN) course in Charleston, SC provides basic knowledge of technical mathematics and power distribution. Students learn to solve equations using phasors, vector notations, and basic trigonometry, and analyze DC and AC circuits. They also learn how to operate electrical equipment, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair electrical circuits, motors, and related equipment. From there, it’s on to NNPS and NPTU (see description below).

“A” School for ETNs
The six-month Electronics Technician Nuclear (ETN) course in Charleston, SC provides basic knowledge of technical mathematics and electricity, electronics, solid-state devices, digital logic, systems, microprocessors, and instrumentation/control circuits. Students learn how to interpret schematic diagrams and use test equipment to isolate and correct faults in electronic systems. From there, it’s on to NNPS and NPTU (see description below).

Naval Nuclear Power School (NNPS)
Upon completion of “A” School training, MMNs, EMNs, and ETNs attend Naval Nuclear Power School (NNPS) in Charleston, SC. Here, they learn theory and practical application of nuclear physics and reactor engineering. The six-month course provides a comprehensive understanding of a pressurized-water Naval nuclear power plant, including reactor core principles, heat transfer and fluid systems, plant chemistry and materials, mechanical and electrical systems, and radiological control.

Nuclear Power Training Unit (NPTU)
Following NNPS, MMNs, EMNs, and ETNs begin prototype training in their rating specialty at one of two Nuclear Power Training Units (NPTUs) – located in Charleston, SC and Ballston Spa, NY. This six-month course teaches the fundamentals of a Naval nuclear power plant and the interrelationship of its mechanical, electrical, and reactor subsystems. Students develop oral communication skills, gain understanding of nuclear radiation, and acquire knowledge of safe operation of a complex Naval nuclear power plant.

For all nuclear power trained ratings, promotion opportunities are regularly available but are competitive and based on performance. Specialized training and work experience gained in the course of service can lead to valuable credentialing and occupational opportunities in related fields.

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Beyond offering access to professional credentials and certifications, Navy technical and operational training in nuclear operations can translate to up to 77 credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education. You may also continue your education through opportunities like the following:

Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
Post-9/11 GI Bill

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

A high-school diploma or equivalent is required to become an Enlisted Sailor in the nuclear operations field in the Navy. Those seeking one of these positions must be U.S. citizens with successful completion of one year of Algebra and meet eligibility requirements for a security clearance.

General qualifications may vary depending on whether you’re currently serving, have served before, or have never served before.

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