What Are the Options for Nuclear Engineers in Stagnant Markets?

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  • Thread starter Delta Force
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In summary, there is concern about the job prospects for nuclear engineering graduates in areas where nuclear power is stagnant or declining. However, the industry is not completely dead and there are still opportunities for nuclear engineers in fields such as designing advanced reactors, fuel and fuel cycles, regulatory work, military applications, and space exploration. Additionally, some graduates have found employment in startups and other industries that utilize their skills, such as home inspections for real estate. It is recommended to research where recent graduates from a university program have found employment before enrolling.
  • #1
Delta Force
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I'm not sure this is the right area of the forum for this, but I've been wondering about what types of things people do with nuclear engineering degrees, especially those who graduate from universities in areas where nuclear power is stagnant or in decline. The last major growth period for nuclear power was prior to the mid-1980s, especially in North America and Europe. While there are probably a lot of people from regions where nuclear power is growing who learn nuclear engineering from North American and European institutions its unclear what someone who lives in those stagnant/declining markets for nuclear energy would do with once they complete their training. The average age of a nuclear plant worker in the United States is quite high so it seems there isn't much turnover at civilian plants, and the United States Navy has difficulty with retaining people qualified in nuclear propulsion. The situation is probably even more dire in Europe since there are a lot more plant closings and only France and the United Kingdom operate nuclear powered ships and submarines. What types of things do new nuclear engineers do in those countries? Do they find work in another area of engineering or perhaps physics?
 
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  • #2
The industry is declining, but not dead. There are still several companies actively working to design more advanced, safer reactors. Existing reactors still need fuel. The fuel and fuel cycles are designed by nuclear engineers.

Regulators need nuclear engineers.

Military applications still need nuclear engineers.

NASA still needs nuclear engineers.

This news report (http://downtownschenectady.org/elysium-industries-open-office-downtown-schenectady/) is about a startup company establishing an office in a city where nuclear engineers live.

If you are thinking about a university program, ask where their most recent graduates found employment.
 
  • #3
Reactor and accelerator-based neutron sources are also a possibility. Have a look at any of the spallation neutron sources around the world for example.
 
  • #4
The one I knew best went into home inspections for real estate.
 

What is nuclear engineering?

Nuclear engineering is a field of study and practice that involves the application of principles from nuclear physics, chemistry, and other related disciplines to the design, development, and operation of nuclear energy systems. These systems can include power plants, medical devices, and nuclear weapons.

What do nuclear engineers do?

Nuclear engineers use their knowledge of nuclear physics and technology to design and develop nuclear power plants, nuclear reactors, and other nuclear energy systems. They are also responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of these systems, as well as managing the disposal of nuclear waste.

What are the job responsibilities of a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear engineers may work in a variety of roles, including research and development, design, maintenance, and regulatory compliance. Some of their specific job responsibilities may include designing new nuclear systems, monitoring and maintaining existing systems, and ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.

What skills are required to become a nuclear engineer?

Nuclear engineers must have a strong understanding of nuclear physics and technology, as well as critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. They also need to have strong mathematical and analytical skills, as well as the ability to work well in a team and communicate effectively.

What are the career prospects for nuclear engineers?

The demand for nuclear engineers is expected to grow in the coming years, particularly in the areas of nuclear power and medical applications. Nuclear engineers also have opportunities to work in research and development, government agencies, and consulting firms. With the increasing focus on clean energy and sustainability, the demand for nuclear engineers is expected to remain strong in the future.

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