N23O Surface Ship Nuclear Propulsion Plant Operator: Reactor Control

Core Skills

• reactor control operation
• nuclear plant monitoring
• reactor power management
• control system troubleshooting
• organizational maintenance
• casualty response
• technical procedure compliance
• plant data logging
• watchstanding discipline

Civilian Career Paths

• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Facilities Management

Training & Development

What the Work Involves

• Operate nuclear power reactors in accordance with policies and procedures to protect workers from radiation and to ensure environmental safety.
• Adjust controls to position rod and to regulate flux level, reactor period, coolant temperature, or rate of power flow, following standard procedures.
• Develop or implement actions such as lockouts, tagouts, or clearances to allow equipment to be safely repaired.
• Respond to system or unit abnormalities, diagnosing the cause, and recommending or taking corrective action.
• Monitor all systems for normal running conditions, performing activities such as checking gauges to assess output or the effects of generator loading on other equipment.

Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.