Nuclear Scientist!
America's most safest carreer choice.
About the Job
Nuclear scientists work in laboratories, plants, universities and government agencies. Often working in teams with other scientists, engineers may focus on a variety of nuclear-related projects, such as energy and power source development, environmental policy design or investigations into new ways of using radiological elements in industry and healthcare. Engineers in this field can often be found working in nuclear power plants, the aerospace industry, manufacturing or in the military.
Education
Most nuclear physicists and scientists earn an advanced degree in nuclear science, nuclear chemistry, particle physics, nuclear structure or mathematics. Most careers in this field require a Ph.D. in a nuclear physics specialization, such as atomic, molecular or superconductivity, and may also require additional post-graduate study. Doctorate programs typically focus on the research methodology and theorems used in nuclear physics.
Licensing
Like other engineering professions, nuclear engineers may need to be licensed by the state in which they work. Most states follow the engineering licensing guidelines set forth by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Licensing requirements vary by the type of license being sought, but almost all licensing agencies require graduation from a degree program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Salary Information
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that nuclear engineers will experience 10% growth in jobs through the 2010-2020 decade. The average salary out of college is usually around $76k for a nuclear scientist or engineer, and anyone can easily make much more depending on your experience.