Physics Major, Released from Navy Looking to get into Nuke Field

[sarahschultz77]

I earned a BS in physics from VMI, along with minors in math and astronomy.  I commissioned in the Navy in 2007.  I DORed from the Flight program, and am now being told that I will be released from my obligation in July due to overstaffing.  I took courses in nuclear reactor engineering as well as EE stuff and computer programming, but I can't find any places hiring physics majors, they all want ME guys.  Am I looking in the wrong places?  Can anyone help me out?

[BoilerHP]

Are you trying to get an Engineering job or an Operations job? You could also maybe try and get a health physics job if you have any experience doing those types of calculations.

[sarahschultz77]

I am not sure what duties fall under which catagory.  Could you explain?

[BoilerHP]

Well I am sure people might argue or be able to give more information and details on each (since they may have done them for extended periods of time).

I saw some where on the forum proper descriptions going over just about all of these positions. You may want to read those for more accurate information.

Engineering- You have almost always have to have an engineering degree (I do believe there are some people who may be former SRO managing those dept) There are various types of engineering (systems, procurement, design, and I believe there is one more).

Operations- Have navy nuke experience, A.S. in technical degree, B.S. or higher education. Some companies are now accepting HS students with strong science academics.

Radiation Protection- Various levels here, there is a RP Tech which does actual hands on activities. They take the measurements and perform surveys of areas of the radiological conditions. They also do radiological postings and source checks and calibrations (if qualified) on radiological survey equipment. There are health physicists that typically have lots of Tech experience or 4+ year Health Physics or Physics degrees. Health Physicists have a wide range of responsibilities, go to www.hps.org and read up on this area.

 

[BoilerHP]

Right from an Auxiliary Operator job posting:

"Position Description

Responsible for monitoring, control and operation of nuclear station equipment for the control room. This includes starting, stopping, controlling and monitoring steam turbine, main generator and auxiliary turbine generating equipment, pumps, valves, switchgear, controls and other components as required to maintain maximum station capability.

Requirements

Preferred degrees include, engineering, physics, mathematics, chemistry.  Course work must include course work in chemistry, math and physics.

Candidate must pass the Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) Examination, the Basic Math and Science Test (BMST), a license medical screening, and obtain unescorted access to a nuclear facility. Shift work is required."

[grantime]

a Physics degree will put you in good position for a HP job.  At least my utility wants a hard science degree for HP's

[BoilerHP]

a Physics degree will put you in good position for a HP job.  At least my utility wants a hard science degree for HP's

I would have to agree, I have a health physics degree. I know there are many people with physics degrees in the field. However have you done any calculations with basic radiation fundamentals? If you have no experience what so ever it may be more difficult (as I have friends with HP degrees having a very difficult time getting past HR to get jobs). But the health physicist is a "dying breed" and with a solid physics background you may be able to get with a company that has people willing to help you learn details (which any of us would).

I would HIGHLY suggest you try and get an internship some how as a health physicist, this is by far the most guaranteed way to get an HP job.

I had an internship and after performing well, I was given the choice of being an RP Tech, Health Physicist, or Operator at any site. Obviously this was great, I decided to go the ops route... but if I hadn't I would of had a HP job offer in my hands before I left. This is why I recommend doing what you can for an internship, you will see if you like it. If you do, and you perform well... there will be a job for you!


You can also start off as an RP tech, good money and hours there. Even with my degree I was very seriously considering this to help me learn the plant.

Best of Luck!

[sarahschultz77]

I have not done anything Nuclear other than Nuclear Reactor Engineering Courses in College.  My job in the navy ended in the pilot pipeline, unfortunately not in the nuclear community. After doing more research I would be more interested in the HP field than any of the others.  I have not found any plants hiring for those positions.  I have found several AO positions.  I have no idea if they will still be hiring in July when I leave the military, but at least I have a better Idea of what to look for.  I appreciate all of the advice and help with this.

[grantime]

Keep sending out resumes.  While there may not be anything open today in HP but there good chance something will open up by July. 

Good luck

[BoilerHP]

I would HIGHLY recommend joining the HPS.org site. You can post your resume and you will have a much better chance getting your resume in the right hands. PM me and I can give you more details as I am a member.