I feel like a Freshman on the first day of class. Eager, but lost. In short of mailing my shoe to the Operations Manager. How does does a civ get into the biz? I'll sweep floors, if necessary. Got 3 years electrical experience with a year in a chem plant. Any info will help.
Its pretty easy actually. Just apply. For Ops there are several technical tests you'll need pass to get an interview. They tend to be relatively easily. The POSS tests are basic aptitude (can you read a graph, do simple math, etc) followed by plant specific tests on pumps, math, and basic thermo. They should provide you with some review material prior to the test. You'll need to pass an extensive background investigation too. I'm not sure what its like plant to plant but in general its not a requirement to have been in the navy. Plants are willing to take on people from all types of backgrounds as long as you can show that you have the basic understanding of plant operations and enthusiastic about working at a nuclear plant.. Trust me you will spend more then half your time in training once hired - for the rest of your career.
Also, just apply for any type of a job at the plant (chem tech, security, clerical, etc). If its a union plant you could bid into Ops later once you gotten the swing of things down.