Criminal Justice Career Option - Nuclear Power Reactor Pperators
Duties: Nuclear power reactor operators may perform some or all of the following:
Monitor gauges to determine effects of generator loading on other power equipment
Regulate equipment according to data provided by recording and indicating instruments or computers
Monitor and operate boilers, turbines, wells, and auxiliary power plant equipment
Adjust controls to regulate flow of power between generating and substations
Monitor computer-operated equipment
Note malfunctions of equipment, instruments, or controls
Correct abnormal conditions following standard practices
Dispatch orders and instructions to personnel through radiotelephone or intercommunication system to coordinate operation of auxiliary equipment
Working Conditions: Because electricity is provided around the clock, nuclear power plant operators usually work one of three daily 8-hour shifts or one of two 12-hour shifts on a rotating basis. Shift assignments may change periodically so that all operators can share duty on less desirable shifts. Work on rotating shifts can be stressful due to the constant change in living and sleeping patterns. Operators who work in control rooms generally sit or stand at a control station. This work is not physically strenuous but requires constant attention to details. Nuclear power plant operators are subject to random drug and alcohol tests. A licensed senior reactor operator must be on duty during each shift to act as the plant supervisor and supervise the operation of all controls in the control room.
Educational Requirements: Extensive training and experience are necessary to pass the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) examinations for nuclear power reactor operators and senior reactor supervisors. To maintain their license, licensed reactor operators must pass an annual practical plant operation examination and a biennial written exam administered by their employer. Training may include simulator and on-the-job training, classroom instruction, and individual study. Entrants to nuclear power plant operator trainee jobs must have strong math and science skills. Experience in other power plants or with Navy nuclear propulsion plants also is helpful. With further training and experience, reactor operators may advance to senior reactor operator positions.
Outlook: Individuals who wish to become nuclear power plant operators are expected to encounter keen competition for these high-paying jobs. Little or no change in employment and low turnover in this occupation will result in few job opportunities. The slow pace of new plant construction also will limit opportunities. Increasing use of automatic controls and more efficient equipment should increase productivity and decrease the demand for operators.