A nuclear engineer can be found in an office or at a power station. Regardless of where they work, nuclear science and technology are always moving forward. Although some may feel negative about the nuclear industry, they are in the minority. It is a rewarding field with many benefits.
Job outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (Bolster of Labor Statistics), the job outlook is positive for nuclear engineers. The field is expected to grow by 4 percent annually until 2020, but not as fast as other fields. There may be a decline in the number of nuclear engineering professionals in the future as the nuclear industry becomes more dependent on cheaper natural gases as a source for electricity. A number of medical applications of nuclear sciences are expected to increase, increasing the demand for qualified engineers in this area.
Nuclear engineering is a great career option if you are interested in science and good at math and statistics. You have many options in this field. You might be able to become a manager or supervisor in nuclear engineering, or even a sales representative depending on what your specialization is. But remember to stay current on your continuing education and professional certifications. While job growth in this field can be unpredictable, there are many career options for nuclear engineers.
Education requirements
There are many options available for students who want to become nuclear engineers. A four-year degree program can be completed at an accredited university. Students can also complete a senior project at work while they are employed. Dual-degree programs are available at some schools for nuclear engineers. These allow students to complete their bachelor's degree and master's in five years. The core courses in radiochemistry, reactor analysis, and radiochemistry are typical of a curriculum for nuclear engineers. There are also advanced courses in medical physics and nuclear enterprise management. Students often complete research-intensive thesis projects.
Nuclear engineers may become technical specialists, managers and supervisors depending on the job they are looking for. To be competitive in the field, nuclear engineers must continue to learn and maintain their professional certifications. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of available jobs in this field will decrease by 8 percent between 2020-2030.
Environment for work
The work environment for nuclear engineering varies but it involves working with others in teams. They usually supervise technicians and less-educated staff. They may also manage larger research projects or oversee certain aspects. They may also be responsible for training other employees. This is an area where safety is essential. The radiation that a nuclear engineer is exposed to must be controlled.
While the work environment for nuclear engineers can be technical, it can also allow for creativity. Many nuclear engineers work in design engineering. This involves creating new devices for power or equipment that can be used to dispose of radioactive waste material. Other people work in nuclear research. They develop new equipment or systems for scientists to better understand matter and energy.
Salary
A graduate trainee position is the most common way to get a job in nuclear engineering. You will be working slowly and steadily. You can move up to a managerial or supervisory position depending on your experience. Eventually, you can choose to specialize in one area of the field. Nuclear engineers, regardless of the field you choose, should be open to further education and training.
A variety of employers may employ nuclear engineers. Depending on where they live, they might work for a private business, a government agency, and a research organization. They may also work as a manufacturing worker or in the nuclear energy industry.
FAQ
How much do engineers earn an hour?
This can vary from person to person, and company to company. An entry-level software engineer can earn around $60,000 annually. This number goes up to over $100,000 after you have worked for a few years.
What are the jobs of electrical engineers?
They develop power systems for people.
They are responsible for the design, construction, testing, installation, maintenance, and repair of all types electric equipment used in industry, government, and commercial customers.
They plan and direct the installation of these systems.
An electrical engineer designs and installs electronic circuits and components that convert electricity to useful forms.
What does a Chemical Engineer do?
Chemical engineers employ math, science engineering, technology, as well as business skills to develop chemical processes and products.
Chemical engineers can specialize in areas such as petroleum refining, pharmaceuticals, food processing, agriculture, textiles, plastics, paper, mining, metallurgy, and power generation.
They work closely alongside scientists and researchers to solve difficult technical challenges.
Is engineering a career that is rewarding?
Engineering is a rewarding career that allows you to learn and improve your skills. The opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others is yours. And there are many different ways to do this.
You might design products like cars, planes or trains, and computers, or mobile phones. Software development or building of these products might be your forte. You might also be interested in creating medical equipment and machinery. There are many possibilities.
Engineers enjoy working with others, solving problems and finding solutions. They are always open to new challenges and learning experiences.
Engineering is a good career choice. However, it takes hard work and dedication. Engineering is not about sitting down and watching TV all day. It will take a lot of effort to achieve the desired results. But the rewards will be worth it.
Statistics
- 2021 median salary:$95,300 Typical required education: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering Job growth outlook through 2030: 7% Mechanical engineers design, build and develop mechanical and thermal sensing devices, such as engines, tools, and machines. (snhu.edu)
- Job growth outlook through 2030: 9% (snhu.edu)
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How To
The United States has the highest salaries for engineers
The average engineer salary in the US is $100k per year. This includes base pay and bonuses, as well benefits.
In May 2014 the median annual wage of all workers was $50,000.
This is an increase of 48% from $38,671 in 2013
Software Developer ($65,000), Computer Programmer(60,000), and Systems Analyst (55,000) were the most frequent job titles.
There are many salaries that vary depending on where one lives. New York City's salaries range between $80,000 and $120,000
Engineers living in San Francisco will earn $90,000-$150,000.
Washington DC residents will earn between $85,000-130,000.