The intricate machinery aboard our nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines is complex—but managing the intricacies between people demands just as much expertise. As part of the Navy’s Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate Program (NUPOC), you’ll join a world-renowned team of engineers, scientists and educators who manage the Sailors and maintain the propulsion plants for the Navy’s most important assets.

From day-one, your skills in math, science and engineering will be put to the test in hands-on environments. You could be in command of the entire reactor and propulsion plant on a billion-dollar warship, or you could serve behind the scenes as reactors engineer. There are even teaching positions available for Officers to instruct the next generation on the fundamentals of nuclear power. Your opportunities in the world of nuclear power are as diverse as your skillset.

NUCLEAR INSTRUCTORS POSITIONS AVAILABLE:

NUCLEAR POWER SCHOOL INSTRUCTOR

Nuclear Power School Instructors teach Officers and Enlisted personnel the theories and fundamentals behind the design and operation of Navy nuclear reactors and power plants. These teachers are essential in preparing service members for their work in the fast-paced and competitive nuclear power field.

Naval Nuclear Power School is a 24-week course of instruction in science, technology and power plant operations designed to provide theoretical background of nuclear power. Areas of instruction include:

• Physics, Chemistry, Algebra and Calculus
• Heat Transfer and Fluid Dynamics
• Reactor Theory
• Mechanical and Electrical Systems Design
• Radiological Controls and Health Physics

NUCLEAR POWER TRAINING UNIT INSTRUCTOR

Nuclear Power Training Unit Instructors provide hands-on training and direct oversight to nuclear-trained Officers and Enlisted personnel while operating a nuclear reactor. They are essential in ensuring the safe operation of shore-based nuclear power plants and in preparing the Officer and Enlisted personnel to further their future in the nuclear power field.

Nuclear Power Training Unit is a 26-week course of instruction spent applying the knowledge of nuclear power plant operations in order to attain certification as a nuclear operator. Areas of instruction include:

• Reactor start-up, steady-state operations and shutdown
• Chemistry analysis and control
• Maintenance review and approval
• Casualty response
• Reactor safeguard systems

PAY, BENEFITS & EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Our people are our most valuable assets, so we care for them well. With world-class training, opportunity to pay for college and advanced degrees, access to the best health care in the country, retirement plans, tax incentives, and more perks than you could have imagined, Navy active-duty benefits are the most competitive out there. 

• Earn up to $200,000 while finishing your degree
• Regular monthly income ranging from $5,000 to $7,000 for up to 30 months prior to your graduation   
• Free graduate education through Post 9/11 GI Bill
• Receive an immediate one-time sign-on bonus of $15,000
• 30 days of paid vacation time each year
• Competitive and pay and bonuses: Total compensation at 4 years of service for Lieutenant in San Diego, CA ($130,000)
• Automatic Promotions based on ability and performance
• Comprehensive medical and dental care at no cost to sailor
• Low-cost childcare services
• Opportunities to travel the world
• Excellent retirement benefits including Blended Retirement System/Pension and 5% 401K Government matching contribution
• Food allowances
• A housing allowance that is based upon the location of the school you attend

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

To be an eligible candidate, you must be:

• A U.S. citizen
• 19-29 years old (age waiver may be approved on case-by-case basis)
• In pursuit of a bachelor's degree within 2.5 years from graduation and be currently enrolled full time, or have obtained a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution
• Completion of one year of calculus through differential and integral calculus with a grade of B or better
• Completion of one year of calculus-based physics with a grade of B or better
• Complete the rigorous NUPOC interview process with the Admiral in charge of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion program, who personally selects all prospective Nuclear Officers
• Prior Service Navy and other branches of service are welcome to apply

Makeup of a competitive candidate:

• GPA > 3.4, preferably in mathematics, engineering, physics, chemistry or other technical areas
• Physical fitness
• Extra-curricular activities
• Community involvement
• Outstanding character
• Great leadership potential
• Excellent communication skills

America’s Navy is approximately 450,000 Sailors, 300 ships and submarines, and 3,700 aircraft strong. Water and salt flow through our veins in the same proportion as the sea. That mighty force is the lifeblood of the greatest Navy ever to sail unstoppably upon it, slip stealthily beneath it or fly unchallenged above it. And we defend with honor, courage, and commitment every hour of every day. We are America’s Navy. We are forged by the sea.