Nuclear Power Reactor Operators
The short answer
Parts of this job are expected to change. AI can already assist with some of its tasks. In New York State, the number of these jobs is expected to shrink over the next decade, with about 806 openings expected each year.
Where your job stands
Compared with other New York jobs, this one is in the middle fifth for how much AI could touch it—right around the middle.
How much AI could touch this job
Looking at the job itself, AI could help with about a quarter of this job's tasks.
What this means
Compared with other New York jobs, this one is in the middle fifth, out of 656 jobs we could rank. Read more in the methodology.
What AI can and can’t help with in this job
The score comes from the real, day-to-day tasks of this job—not a guess about the job as a whole. Below are the tasks that matter most in this job, split by whether AI can help with them.
AI can help with or automate about 42% of the tasks in this job.
Tasks AI can help with or automate
Respond to system or unit abnormalities, diagnosing the cause, and recommending or taking corrective action.
AI could help, but needs extra software
Record operating data, such as the results of surveillance tests.
AI could do much of this on its own
Implement operational procedures, such as those controlling start-up or shut-down activities.
AI could help, but needs extra software
Note malfunctions of equipment, instruments, or controls and report these conditions to supervisors.
AI could help, but needs extra software
Authorize maintenance activities on units or changes in equipment or system operational status.
AI could help, but needs extra software
Tasks AI can't do much of
Operate nuclear power reactors in accordance with policies and procedures to protect workers from radiation and to ensure environmental safety.
AI is unlikely to speed this up
Adjust controls to position rod and to regulate flux level, reactor period, coolant temperature, or rate of power flow, following standard procedures.
AI is unlikely to speed this up
Develop or implement actions such as lockouts, tagouts, or clearances to allow equipment to be safely repaired.
AI is unlikely to speed this up
Direct reactor operators in emergency situations, in accordance with emergency operating procedures.
AI is unlikely to speed this up
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.
AI is unlikely to speed this up
Jobs you could switch to
If you're thinking about a change, these are jobs your experience already fits—related work you could move into. Pick your area to see local options.
See related jobs in
The closest matches by the skills they use—each has projected openings in New York State, pays within reach of your job now, and is no more exposed to AI than your job. Each card shows what the move would take.
Power Distributors and Dispatchers
Very similar work+8% pay508 openings/yrAbout as exposed as your job nowPays about 8% more—$142,573 vs your $132,539 here.
What the move takes
Usually requires a high school diploma or equivalent, plus long-term on-the-job training.
Getting ready typically takes one to two years.
Skills you already have
- Problem Sensitivity
- Oral Expression
- Oral Comprehension
- Inductive Reasoning
- Mathematics
New skills to build
- Customer and Personal Service
- Telecommunications
- Geography
- Administrative
Industrial Production Managers
Similar workabout the same pay457 openings/yrAbout as exposed as your job nowPays about the same—$132,662 vs your $132,539 here.
What the move takes
A step up—usually requires a bachelor's degree, with 5 years or more of experience.
Getting ready typically takes two to four years.
Skills you already have
- Mechanical
- Problem Sensitivity
- Oral Expression
- Written Comprehension
- Oral Comprehension
New skills to build
- Production and Processing
- Administration and Management
- Personnel and Human Resources
- Administrative
- Management of Financial Resources
Nuclear Technicians
Similar work+1% pay751 openings/yrLess exposed than your job nowPays about 1% more—$133,415 vs your $132,539 here.
What the move takes
A step up—usually requires an associate's degree, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Getting ready typically takes one to two years.
Skills you already have
- Problem Sensitivity
- Oral Comprehension
- Written Comprehension
- Oral Expression
- Physics
New skills to build
- Equipment Maintenance