Author Topic: Rookie Nuke worker Questions (Read 139166 times)

JassenB · « **on:** Aug 22, 2003, 05:19 »

Howdy, everybody. I'm a newbie to nukeworker.com and am looking for some advice on getting back into the industry. I have applied with Bartlett Nuclear to get into their worker pool, and they seem anxious to fill spots this fall at Seabrook.

My wife is intrigued with the idea of me being able to make good money but still being home quite a bit. So I guess my first question is thus: What do you like/not like about the outage-to-outage lifestyle?

I also would like to find out what I could do to make myself a better candidate for employment in the RCT/HP arena, since my Navy time was spent as a nuclear electrician's mate, not an ELT, which companies seem to prefer.

If it helps anybody, I did a single hitch as a nuke EM in the world's finest Navy, and I just completed the bachelor's degree program in nuclear engineering technologies at Thomas Edison State College. I've been out of the Navy for 2 years and have not been working in the nuclear industry. I did spend a year working as a utility operator in a pharmaceutical plant, where I received all the DOT and OSHA training for hazmat (HAZWOPR, RCRA, etc.). My HAZWOPR expired 2 weeks ago, so I need the refresher.

So, is there a way I can get back into the industry on the RCT/HP side with just my Navy training and a degree? Or is it a necessity to complete the DOE Core exams, the NRRPT, NEU, CHP, etc.?

Thanks a bunch for all your help!

-Jassen
Ft. Collins, CO

SloGlo · « **Reply #1 on:** Aug 25, 2003, 07:08 »

jassen, yer navy em and tech degree should be more than adequate to qualify for a jr hp tech slot at an outage coming soon. yer not eligible for the nrrpt yet so don't sweat it. re: those other tests, if ya need them, the site/company will give them. 'n always remember, the best training/test that you can take is the one you are getting paid for! because that's the one you really, rily need, period.

JassenB · « **Reply #2 on:** Aug 25, 2003, 01:19 »

Thanks for the info, SloGlo. That's actually what I was hoping for. I'm still waiting to hear back from Bartlett, but I'm optimistic. And training is always best paid for by somebody else, in my opinion.

Thank you!
-Jassen

duke99301 · « **Reply #3 on:** Aug 26, 2003, 12:12 »

will what ever you feel is best for you I was talking to a local here where I am at and 30 a year seems tops and they take side jobs to make it. some times you have to hit the road to make it or you can stay home and have a normel life.( home with a loving family) good luck

metalman40 · « **Reply #4 on:** Aug 26, 2003, 12:40 »

Have you looked into I&C contracting? An EM with a tech degree should have the background for that.

duke99301 · « **Reply #5 on:** Aug 27, 2003, 03:40 »

Some of the best training you get is what you seek out, now
when I was doing the HP thing I found out on the dirt jobs what I needed and went and got it it payed a lot better than doing nukes.
and I have used that to get out of the heard! good luck on what you find!

JassenB · « **Reply #6 on:** Aug 28, 2003, 03:19 »

Quote

Have you looked into I&C contracting? An EM with a tech degree should have the background for that.

Actually, no I haven't. I've always assumed employers were more interested in having ex-ET's for that rather than EM's. Do you have any info on where I might be able to start networking with I&C contractors?

Thanks!
-Jassen

JassenB · « **Reply #7 on:** Aug 28, 2003, 03:25 »

Quote

Some of the best training you get is what you seek out, now
when I was doing the HP thing I found out on the dirt jobs what I needed and went and got it it payed a lot better than doing nukes.
and I have used that to get out of the heard! good luck on what you find!

I'm the kind of person that loves to travel, and I don't have children. The thing that really attracts me to the life of outages and haz waste site cleanup is the variety of work locations and the people I could end up meeting. Not to mention that I like the idea of being able to earn in 4-5 months on the road the same amount I could make in a year at a facilities management job here in Fort Collins, Colorado.

-Jassen

willitb3 · « **Reply #8 on:** Dec 22, 2003, 08:46 »

I am fresh out of Instrumentation School. I got a job working in a Nuke Plant. I Know i have to fill out Mounds of paperwork to get clearance. I am getting my work history from S.S. What other information do I need to prepare Before I Start to fill out Paperwork to make it easier on myself.Any info would be greatly apprecitiated.

ex-turbine_cowboy · « **Reply #9 on:** Dec 22, 2003, 09:11 »

1. Addresses for everywhere you have ever lived.
2. Names, Addresses, Phone numbers and supervisors of every place you worked.
3. References with names, phones, address.
4. Birth certificates, SS #s, Photo ID.
5 Job Discription of every place you worked

Did I miss much?

RP Instructor · « **Reply #10 on:** Dec 22, 2003, 09:55 »

Quote

4. Birth certificates, SS #s, Photo ID.

Did I miss much?

Just a suggestion, but you may want to produce only one birth certificate, and one social security number; preferably your own. Otherwise, they may get suspicious.

allforthenukie · « **Reply #11 on:** Dec 22, 2003, 10:29 »

Don't know if this applies to you or not but...

If you have any kind of criminal convictions(such as OWI, underage, drugs)in your past since age 18, they may want the case number, dates, state and county where convicted etc. Be prepared to provide any kind of documentation that you completed your alcohol and drug assessment, drunk classes, probation, counseling, whatever.

Your personal references should be someone who is not a former employer and not related to you, but who's known you for several years and can verify your residences, personal lifestyle habits(such as if you drink alcohol, and how often etc).

In addition to the addresses and dates for everywhere you have ever lived, they may want a name and phone number of someone who is not related to you who can verify.

Two forms of identification, one should be photo ID. A drivers license and social security card ussually will be enough.

RRhoads · « **Reply #12 on:** Dec 22, 2003, 12:48 »

you certainly didn't just get out of spelling class!

ex-turbine_cowboy · « **Reply #13 on:** Dec 22, 2003, 02:59 »

Quote

Just a suggestion, but you may want to produce only one birth certificate, and one social security number; preferably your own. Otherwise, they may get suspicious.

Touche'

I always provide a matching set

bikerdad · « **Reply #14 on:** Dec 23, 2003, 05:23 »

Along with all the information already provided by the previous replies be sure to have any and all information regarding any medical conditions, physical or mental, with doctor's names, addresses and such. Be sure to have exact dates of everything already mentioned.
Good luck and be prepared to meet lots of interesting folks with loads of endless questions.
Bikerdad

greengoo · « **Reply #15 on:** Jan 08, 2004, 08:22 »

I'm not a nuke yet, but this thread seems to be where my question should reside.

What is a drywell? Could someone tell me what one is?

Nuclear NASCAR · « **Reply #16 on:** Jan 08, 2004, 09:22 »

Quote

I'm not a nuke yet, but this thread seems to be where my question should reside.

What is a drywell? Could someone tell me what one is?

The drywell is the Primary Containment for a BWR (Boiling Water Reactor). Here's a good cutaway drawing of a BWR containment showing the drywell surrounding the reactor. OK, how'd I do? Be kind, I work at a PWR.

darkmatter · « **Reply #17 on:** Jan 09, 2004, 06:13 »

Quote

I'm not a nuke yet, but this thread seems to be where my question should reside.

What is a drywell? Could someone tell me what one is?

In a PWR (Pressurized water Reactor) its called a BRT, Big Round Thing--Thats the big round concete stucture you see in a lot of pictures. In a BWR ( Boiling water Reactor) Its not as massive a stucture due to pressure designs and is shaped like a big metal lined lightbulb with a torus (doughnut) or suspression pool. Its called a varitiy of things by the workers working in the cramped high dose, high contamination areas of the drywell.

harleygirl · « **Reply #18 on:** Jan 10, 2004, 08:04 »

Don't forget the financials. Bring a checkbook to set up direct deposit and be ready to list any big recent changes in your financial background such as big loans if you bought a house or got a second mortgage or if you have high credit debt. In the atmosphere today they look at you also being a possible future terrorist target as in could you be easily bribed due to financial strain. Go to love security now. Oh yeah empty your vehicle before reporting especially if you are going directly to the site. Your vehicle will get searched inside and out.

bodyburden · « **Reply #19 on:** Jan 28, 2004, 10:28 »

Don't forget the names and phone numbers of everyone you've ever worked with, met in a bar, used to date, hung out with once in a while, etc. and THEN, name 3 people that each of them would know. . .

Drywell? Sorry, I only work on the refuel floor.

Big Round Thing? Sorry, I really only work in the ALARA office. . .

Unless you are a 3 foot flying monkey with 6 foot arms, avoid the Drywell at all costs. . .

Good Luck!

Ruddly · « **Reply #20 on:** Jan 31, 2004, 09:38 »

More important info for rookie worker bees. If you see an HP running like a bat out of hell, don't ask any questions, just follow him, and RUN! Also, if the HP sees a zoomie comming at you and tells you to duck, just DUCK!

Here's a nugget for rookie HP's. If you see a spill remember "SWIMS" : Smile, Walk away, Ignore the situation, Maintain a low profile, and Smile again!

tjm807 · « **Reply #21 on:** Feb 17, 2004, 02:15 »

Ruddly we use that same SWIMS on our ship. except we try to get someone to take our watch for "a few minutes" or make an out of plant tour.

frenchyjr · « **Reply #22 on:** Feb 25, 2004, 10:51 »

So here I am changing careers.

I am young ambitious and full of energy (somedays)
Anyway

My father works Nuclear outages most of the year as a valve tech, he makes quite a bit more than I do. So he says to me one day, you could do what i do and thus here I am. I am leaving for Calvert Cliffs in a couple weeks and the only downside I can think of is I am at the bottom of the barrel. I know everyone has to start somewhere so I have no problem with it. To give you a little backround I have done quite a few jobs but for the past 5 yrs I have been a computer tech fixing various problems with hardware, software, LANs, WANs, and everthing else under the sun in medium size businesses. But it is kinda a dead end job, and I think my hair is falling out. I was a mechanic for some time, worked as a carpenter for my father growing up and did some time in the Army. But know I am getting hired on at Calvert as a laborer so I can get my first clearance. I would really like to get into I&C or I&E but it seems like I can't find much on the subject. Maybe thats not the area I should be looking at and maybe a couple valve courses are, I am open for options and I am thrilled to do the traveling. I just don't want to spend any more time at a college, courses are fine but 4 years of college will kill me. So the question after this lengthy little story here is this, what should I be aiming for and is it really gonna be bad being a laborer??

Thanks Guys
Frenchy Jr.

P.S. my father is at brunswick now if any of you are down there he is there with you.

jjordan · « **Reply #23 on:** Feb 25, 2004, 11:14 »

Frenchy Jr.
Why aren't you with dad? He's obviously a seasoned veteran1 He's hear at the beach with me! I'm an HP at Brunswick, and it don't get no better than this! Calverts ain't bad though! (Expensive as Hell! But Fun!) I started out as a laborer, you can do whatever it is that you want!

See what kind of work is interesting to you, then find out who has the contract at Calverts, go visit and tell them you're interested in learing the craft,. Hopefully they will have other contracts and maybe an openig for a Jr or apprentice. Bartlett always has decon slots, maybe some Jr HP slots, scaffolding too! Things are opening up a bit now for several different reasons. But you should be able to find something fairly easy. Be prepared to take your summers off though, it gets slow in the Nukes in the summertime1 Some people here maybe can hook you up. Keep posting, try messaging Nukerecruiter, and get that resume out!

JJ

Roll Tide · « **Reply #24 on:** Feb 25, 2004, 11:27 »

Quote from: frenchyjr on Feb 25, 2004, 10:51

So here I am changing careers.

I am young ambitious and full of energy (somedays)

To give you a little backround I have done quite a few jobs but for the past 5 yrs I have been a computer tech fixing various problems with hardware, software, LANs, WANs, and everthing else under the sun in medium size businesses. But it is kinda a dead end job, and I think my hair is falling out. I was a mechanic for some time, worked as a carpenter for my father growing up and did some time in the Army. But know I am getting hired on at Calvert as a laborer so I can get my first clearance. I would really like to get into I&C or I&E but it seems like I can't find much on the subject. Maybe thats not the area I should be looking at and maybe a couple valve courses are, I am open for options and I am thrilled to do the traveling.

I just don't want to spend any more time at a college, courses are fine but 4 years of college will kill me.

There are jobs out there, but you may need a little more college to get your foot in the door. An associates degree is about the minimum for any TVA position, although they advertise "or equivalent", they only use that if unable to get enough candidates without degrees.

http://www.tva.gov/employment/om_jobs.htm

The link shows a couple of classes, and they are willing to fill them. Better yet, TVA currently shows where the pay will be after training (assuming 40 hours per week with no OT, though OT is available outages and some other times.)

You may not want to apply for these right now, but keep jobs like this in mind after you have worked an outage or three. Best of luck.

Dan_E. · « **Reply #25 on:** Feb 26, 2004, 03:08 »

In my part of the country, Laborers support everyone else which means a broad, general knowledge of everyone else's job. If this is true where you are going, you will have a great oppourtunity to ask questions and learn about all the various jobs at a nuke. So it's like getting paid to learn about (and work hard) many different occupations. Then you can make an educated decision about which direction you want to take. Good luck in whatever you choose!

moke · « **Reply #26 on:** Feb 26, 2004, 04:35 »

Frenchyjr,

Keep that positive attitude going. It's easy to get ahead in this field if you work hard and don't put any limitations upon yourself. You will need a good dose of coping skill to deal with whatever the road throws at you.

There are many involved that do just enough to get by. If you work hard, you will have goodluck!

Learn as much as you can every day and ask great questions. Don't do anything that you are not sure of and keep an open yet positive mind set.

I wish you luck. Get a network going for yourself and try to embrace those with superior knowledge because its bound to rub off.

Goodluck and again keep that postive attitude, laugh and have fun; "Enjoy the ride!"

Aloha & Goodluck,

Moke

JassenB · « **Reply #27 on:** Feb 27, 2004, 09:13 »

Frenchy-

Welcome to nukeworker.com, and the business. I'm actually working on putting a FAQ together about being a newbie and getting into the business.

I might get slammed for this, but somebody has to give the military plug.

If you're willing to invest the time and energy, don't rule out the Navy nuclear power program. It's where a lot of people in the biz get there start. It's a great way to learn a trade, do an apprenticeship, AND finish at least an associate's degree, all while getting paid pretty decent wages.

I was a Navy nuke electrician, and I am currently attempting to transition into the HP field. I've learned a *lot* from the folks here on this board.

Good luck!
-Jassen

Jessie Williams · « **Reply #28 on:** Mar 06, 2004, 07:46 »

I am a trained Navy Nuke MM/ELT, but have not been working in the field, went to college and spent two years in the medical field as a service tech. I would like to return to the field and have been hunting for weeks. I have tried Bartlett, and several recruiters. Any advice would be greatly appreciated such as training programs, helpful hints ext. Thanks so much.
Jessie

GARYGWOODJR · « **Reply #29 on:** Mar 06, 2004, 08:30 »

If you havent done so already, look through my post and the post by JassenB in the Q&A section. As I found out when I posted it is hard for people to give you advice unless they know what exactly you are looking for and your current qualifications. You could try the NUMANCO and Philotechnics websites if you are looking for work as a RCT. If you havent looked in the study section of the website there is alot of good info there also. Almost everyone has told me to get on the road, do some jobs, make some contacts, then decide where you want to work. I am kind of in the same boat as you but let me know if I can help in any way.

moodusjack · « **Reply #30 on:** Mar 07, 2004, 11:01 »

How many years ELT and how much actual time doing radcon vs monkey mate? How much college did you get...AS or BS or just Almost?

Followup and I'll offer some options.

Jessie Williams · « **Reply #31 on:** Mar 07, 2004, 08:56 »

Thanx I spent 2.5 years as an ELT and all of that time was spent doing Elt work. mostly on a cruiser. I have the A.S and most of a B.S in math.
Thanx for any advice and I appreciate it . I am especcially concerned About the lag time I got out in 97. Any thing that you recomend to do before time like which tests and courses would be extra helpful. thanx again in advance
Jessie

scoon1 · « **Reply #32 on:** Mar 10, 2004, 10:55 »

I'm an ex-Navy Nuke (ET) with a degree in Engineering Management from the University of Illinois. I'm trying to get back into the nuclear field and I'm wondering if anyone knows of any plants hiring now or in the near future. I'm open to going anywhere. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

moke · « **Reply #33 on:** Mar 10, 2004, 11:17 »

Scoon1,

Start by going through the Facilities Tab and start contacting everybody and their brother. Start sending out resumes like there aint no tomorrow til you get a bite.

Goodluck,

Moke

Roll Tide · « **Reply #34 on:** Mar 10, 2004, 07:36 »

Quote from: scoon1 on Mar 10, 2004, 10:55

I'm an ex-Navy Nuke (ET) with a degree in Engineering Management from the University of Illinois. I'm open to going anywhere.

Anywhere is good. But how much will you demand for a salary? The TVA and Duke websites currently show positions for field operators at nuclear plants. Student Generating Plant Operator at TVA and Learner operator at Duke are the titles on the websites, I think.
http://duke-energy.com/careers/welcome/
http://www.tva.gov/employment/currentjobs.htm

Assuming your degree includes Calculus based Physics classes, you would probably qualify as a Shift Technical Advisor (STA). Many utilities want their licensed operators to be able to qualify STA at the time they qualify SRO (senior reactor operator). If you are interested in moving up the nuke field, OPS is a good way to go. I&C is also open to you, but I would say OPS is best for upward mobility.

There are many nuke opportunities other places, but I only check the Southeast on a routine basis.
BEST OF LUCK!

mikez0402 · « **Reply #35 on:** Mar 31, 2004, 07:35 »

I am a Navy MM1 getting out in May 2005, and although that sounds like a lot of time to prepare, based off of the confusion I am creating for myself, I think I can use the time. I have some questions maybe everyone can help me with. First off my history goes something like this, my first sub I did one deployment then decommed her, second sub I did 1.5 patrols and took her through a year and a half overhaul, then I went to a tender as a RCT and then RCSS, now I am working here in Groton once again as a RCT and shooting for RCTS by summer-ish. I will finish my BS from TESC by the end of the year. I am just starting to sprout into the supervising stage of my career and now am wondering if I have to start over from here. Is that so? Also, is RCT or mechanical operator the only reliable ways to go or is it possible to successfully branch off now to something a little different? Finally, one of the most important reasons I am leaving the Navy is because I am tired of moving every 2 years, so the prospect of doing it even more as a civilian and with a new family doesn't excite me. Should that mean I need to stop considering the nuke field and just try my way in the non-nuke world? Any kind of guidance, suggestions or contructive criticism would be greatly appreciated...

Roll Tide · « **Reply #36 on:** Mar 31, 2004, 08:08 »

Sounds like you would be a good candidate for an OPS position. Check the websites monthly for the companies owning nukes all the places you would work until you get down to 6 months. If your dream commercial plant hasn't been hiring during 6 months, post it here and we can tell you how they hire (for example: St. Lucie doesn't hire off the street operators, they move up from Turkey Point in the FP&L system.)

There are also opportunities for long-term jobs with DOE / waste sites as a RADCON Tech, and occasional openings for house techs at commercial plants.

Yes, it's sort of starting over. It won't take long to be in a "supervisory" position similar to RCSS in either OPS or HP fields, and the pay will be more like XO!

Moving out is up! Don't get so scared you sign away more years from your family!

GARYGWOODJR · « **Reply #37 on:** Mar 31, 2004, 11:21 »

Check out some of the threads I started because there is alot of good advice about career paths from the guys on this site. Sit down and come up with a plan while you still can, time starts to speed up as you get closer.

The one thing I have learned so far is that you have to figure out where you really want to live and what it will cost. Several people have given me leads on jobs but unfortunately some of them have been in places I didnt think I could afford to live.

The other thing I have learned is that 3 or 4 weeks is not very much time when you are looking for a job. I was told by Hanford that I had made it passed the initial SRCT screening and would be contacted for a phone interview at the end of February. I called last week and HR told me that they had not even started the phone interview process for position I had applied for, and probably wouldnt for at least two more weeks.

Last but not least, if there is anything I can do to help or pass on what I have learned during my job search, let me know. It is the least I can do considering all the help that everyone here has given me.

capper · « **Reply #38 on:** Apr 01, 2004, 02:27 »

Greetings.

I personally like the OPS route. I didn't like going away in the navy and therefore didn't want to be a road tech. Although it sounds like fun, it just isn’t my thing. I came to my plant in ops. About two years later, I interviewed for a HP house tech position at my plant. After I thought about it I realized that I was an operator thru and thru. If you liked operating the plant in the navy you will like being an operator at a commercial plant. It is a much different ball game. Much better.

I work at palisades. We hire operators about once a year. We will be hiring NLO again in Jan. of 2005. Palisades is in South West Michigan. If you are interested I will PM you some HR contacts.

I got out of the navy 4 years ago. I still have never been happier. I never dread going to work, I like the people I work with, and I have fun at work.

Starting as a NLO is starting at the bottom but it is not like the Navy. You should go on some interviews and see if you think you would like it. You don't go away but you do work rotating shifts. Some people just don't like that.

If I can be of any assistance let me know.

mikez0402 · « **Reply #39 on:** Apr 01, 2004, 04:02 »

Thank you everyone, you have been very helpful so far and I am sure I will need more advice in the next year...

oldradman · « **Reply #40 on:** Apr 02, 2004, 02:22 »

Quote from: turbine cowboy on Dec 22, 2003, 09:11

1. Addresses for everywhere you have ever lived.
2. Names, Addresses, Phone numbers and supervisors of every place you worked.
3. References with names, phones, address.
4. Birth certificates, SS #s, Photo ID.
5 Job Discription of every place you worked

Did I miss much?

YOU STILL IN THE BUSINESS? LEFT OR GOT OUT A FEW YEARS AGO DID YOU NOT?

Roll Tide · « **Reply #41 on:** Apr 27, 2004, 01:21 »

I would like to post this article as a starting point for many who are ready to transition (or just testing the waters!)
While the terms aren't from the nuclear industry, the general guidance looks like it would be successful in a short period of time.

-----ROLL TIDE!!

Under the radar: The One-Week Job Search

You want a new job, so you call a few friends and answer a few ads. Nothing comes of it, so you give up.

That's the typical job seeker. There's a better way to land a job. I call it the One-Week Job Search. Yes, it's a demanding week, but afterwards, you may be able to sit back and watch the interview requests roll in.

DAY 1

1. Prepare three PAR stories. PAR stands for "Problem-Approach--Resolution." Rehearse a brief story in which you briefly describe a problem you faced at work, how you approached it, and its positive resolution.

Example: We were having trouble meeting our fundraising goal. I decided that we should try an auction with a local celebrity as the auctioneer. I led the entire effort and we raised $27,000 in one night.

Rehearse your PAR stories with a friend or by talking into a tape recorder.

2. Create your resume Creating a resume is a few-hour not a few-week activity. ResumeMaker 10.0 ($39.95) software makes it easy. It has hundreds of model resumes. Pick one that's most like the one you'd like to create. Plug in your information, inspired by what you saw in the model resume(s). Focus on accomplishments, not just duties. Show a draft to a respected person or two.

DAY 2

Make a list of 50 potential employers. Can't find 50? Your Yellow Pages or a reference librarian may help. For a list of government employers, see the front of the local White Pages.

To get the name of the specific person to contact, call the organization's switchboard and say, "I need to email a senior marketing (or whatever's appropriate) person. Can I get the correct spelling of his or her name and e-mail address?"

DAY 3

1. Make a list of every person in your extended personal network. That means everyone from your former co-workers to your haircutter to your parent's best friend, to that person in your study group at college 20 years ago. Put at least 50, ideally 100, people on that list. And yes, you do know 50 people! And yes, even if you haven't spoken to them for years and didn't know them well back then, if they know someone who might hire you, they will usually tell you about him or her.

2. Write a human, brief letter to be emailed to prospective employers and to people in your personal network. Example:

Dear (insert prospective employer's name),

I'm interested in working for your company because recent newspaper articles have discussed the ethnic strife in your workforce. I am a human resources manager with special expertise in diversity management. Also, your office is just ten minutes from my home.

Until last week, I was working for ABC Corp. I am one of 50 people who was downsized. They really liked me, so it was quite a shock. In any event, I'm looking for a job.

Some recent accomplishments:

(Insert three one-line bullets)

If you think I might be of help to you, I'd welcome a call. My number is (insert number) and the best times to reach me are (insert times.) I know how busy you likely are, so if I haven't heard from you in a week, I'll take the liberty of phoning to follow up.

Sincerely,

DAY 4

E-mail your resume and semi-personalized cover letter to the people you identified on Days 2 and 3.

If your background is superior to most applicants for your target position, it's worth taking the time to post your resume on job sites such as craigslist.org, monster.com, careerbuilder.com, usajobs.opm.gov (federal jobs), caljobs.ca.gov (state and local jobs) . Many of those sites will allow you to sign up for electronic "agents" that notify you whenever a new job opening is posted that matches your qualifications. Sign up for those.

For a master list of career-specific employment sites, go to www.rileyguide.com/jobs.html or consult the book, Career Xroads.

DAY 5

Respond to at least five want ads (at the above sites) for which you are well qualified.

Here's a model letter:

Dear XXX,

I was excited to see your posting for Job #365778 on bayrecruiter.com because I believe I'm a good fit.

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Insert the requirements as stated in the ad.

MY BACKGROUND
Insert how you meet the requirement.

I hope to have the opportunity to interview.

Sincerely,

DAY 6+

Phone any people who responded to your email. Be prepared to tell your PAR stories.

If it feels appropriate, ask questions about the employer's needs to see if a case could be made for creating a position for you. If so, say something like, "Having listened carefully to what you were saying, it sounds like I could be of most help to you if I did X. Might that be a possibility?"

If the person says he has no job for you, ask if he would mind if you contacted him again in a month to see if the situation has changed. Or ask if she would suggest other potential employers you should speak with.

DAY 7

You now have plenty irons in the fire. Have fun!

Dr. Marty Nemko is a career and education counselor in Oakland, California and hosts "Work With Marty Nemko," Sundays 11 to noon on KALW, 91.7FM. He is co-author of Cool Careers for Dummies.

Roll Tide · « **Reply #42 on:** Apr 27, 2004, 01:23 »

For those who would like additional articles from this author, here is the link:

http://www.martynemko.com/home.htm

ramdog_1 · « **Reply #43 on:** Apr 27, 2004, 02:26 »

wow !

moke · « **Reply #44 on:** Apr 27, 2004, 02:42 »

Roll Tide,

Keep up the great work!

Mahalo,

Moke

Roll Tide · « **Reply #45 on:** Apr 27, 2004, 11:00 »

I would like everyone to have a clear head and realistic expectations upon transition from their current job (especially those getting out of the Nuke Navy!)

Hope the one-week strategy is a great starting point!

RP Instructor · « **Reply #46 on:** Apr 29, 2004, 08:24 »

This won't come cheap, but the cost is tax deductible as a job-related expense. Join the American Nuclear Society and Health Physics Society. The website for each group has a "career" area for members to post their resumes (it'll help you to get the exposure you're looking for), and review current job postings.

ex-turbine_cowboy · « **Reply #47 on:** Apr 29, 2004, 10:44 »

Quote from: Roll Tide on Apr 27, 2004, 01:21

For a master list of career-specific employment sites, go to www.rileyguide.com/jobs.html or consult the book, Career Xroads. [/color]

This is cool. I went to the rileyguide.com and the nuclear list was a link to something called nukeworker.com

No mention of other inferior sites

Roll Tide · « **Reply #48 on:** Apr 29, 2004, 08:27 »

Quote from: turbine cowboy on Apr 29, 2004, 10:44

This is cool. I went to the rileyguide.com and the nuclear list was a link to something called nukeworker.com No mention of other inferior sites

I guess I am smarter than I thought!

Surveyors_mato · « **Reply #49 on:** Apr 30, 2004, 04:22 »

I don't want to seem flippant....But there is the luck factor too. worked for me. Knowledge backed up the luck and there is much to be said for putting oneself in the right place at the right time.

GARYGWOODJR · « **Reply #50 on:** May 06, 2004, 07:33 »

I have some additional advice based on what I have learned during my job search. I hope it helps.

Quote

Prepare three PAR stories. PAR stands for "Problem-Approach--Resolution."

Sometimes these are referred to as STAR "situation-task-action-result". I was required to answer several questions in this manner during my last interview. Some examples:

-Tell me about the most difficult maintenance item you have ever performed.
-Tell me about a time that you identified a process that required improvement and what you did.

Other questions you might want have answers to:

-Tell me about a time that you did not agree with a descision that your boss made and what you did.
-How do you set priorities.
-How do you plan your day.
-Tell about you last work day.

As far as resumes go:

In my opinion the best book out there is "The Complete Idots Guide to the Perfect Resume".

Make sure you have your resume in text format in advance to apply to online jobs.

Like Moke said in a previous post on another thread get addresses, emails, or both and get them out there.

By far the very best way to get yourself in position for a potential interview is to talk to someone in person or on the phone. Call the plant directly and ask for HR. At the very least they will give you the name of the corporate recruiter. Call him and let him know what you are looking for. I called Surry and they patched me straight through to the Control Room Supervisor.

Practice answering the question: So....tell me about yourself. I have been called without warning and asked that question right off the bat. 5 minutes after that call the phone rang again and it was the same thing all over again.

If you are transitioning from the Navy be persistant and patient. This is not like working with your detailer. 3 to 4 weeks in this industry is not necessarily a long time.

Fermi2 · « **Reply #51 on:** Jul 17, 2004, 01:22 »

FP and L just started hiring Off The Street Operators BIG TIME! and from what I hear they'll be doing so for some time. They just stole my CRS!!!

Mike

wheeln · « **Reply #52 on:** Aug 24, 2004, 10:50 »

I have been trying to jump start my career in the Nuke world and so far I have worked at a DOE site off and on for 4 years as a Data Recorder and presently as a Laborer. I am very interested in advancing my skills to include RCT and or Operator. I have been searching for ways to get my foot in the door and I have made several contacts in doing so, but my efforts have evaded me thus far.
My goals and intentions are to focus on RCT work. I have worked with several RCT's employeed by EG&G and Bartlett that have given me some experience here and there. I really want to improve and learn more on this field. Is there anyone out there that would be willing to give me a hand and point me in the right directions

Most of my contacts have told me about this site and I check it out almost everyday since joining. I know there are companies out there that are willing to train "rookie nukies" from start or those that do have quals already.
If there is any help that you can offer me, my ears are willing to listen

Thanks for taking the time to read this inquiri.

alphadude · « **Reply #53 on:** Aug 24, 2004, 01:30 »

got yer DOE core? a junior job was just posted on here not too long ago for a DOE site.

exnuke19 · « **Reply #54 on:** Aug 26, 2004, 12:46 »

Ocassionally on Monster.com there is an add for a nuke recruiting company out of Washington. Anyone have dealings with this company?

RAD-GHOST · « **Reply #55 on:** Aug 26, 2004, 06:26 »

DOE and Juniors: Obviously a trip away from home will probably be in your future no matter how you play your cards. Kelly Scientific is currently looking for Juniors in Oak Ridge, minimum experience required and a way in. If you apply with them, have patience, whey respond to perspective employee's with the speed of a snail race! Money doesn't seem bad for the area and future training should be available.

Try this site: http://www.radix.net/~gregsackett/jobs.htm

Hope it helps, RG

Heather7 · « **Reply #56 on:** Aug 28, 2004, 03:30 »

I am currently working for manafort brothers, decommisioning Connecticut Yankee. I want to be an HP, start at the bottom and be a deconner, how do I get involved if they all want expierience?

idrum4food · « **Reply #57 on:** Aug 28, 2004, 11:57 »

Bartlett Nuclear @ 800 -225-0385. I'm sure they can help if you have the slighest bit of nuclear power experience.

RAD-GHOST · « **Reply #58 on:** Aug 29, 2004, 06:37 »

EDUCATION: All the contract companies will use you and lose you! I suggest some type of higher education, or Tech school and search for some form of specialty. If your at CY check out the FSS group, or Radwaste. Maybe Mass Spec, or even IH.

Ommetikklan · « **Reply #59 on:** Sep 25, 2004, 02:47 »

Does anybody actually work for the shipyards? I know Norfolk and CT are always looking for RCTs. I've considered it as one of my options, but I don't know how the pay compares to non-Navy RCT work. I would prefer to stay away from the Navy though...

UncaBuffalo · « **Reply #60 on:** Sep 27, 2004, 04:57 »

Quote from: Ommetikklan on Sep 25, 2004, 02:47

Does anybody actually work for the shipyards? I know Norfolk and CT are always looking for RCTs. I've considered it as one of my options, but I don't know how the pay compares to non-Navy RCT work. I would prefer to stay away from the Navy though...

I started out in the shipyards (Electric Boat), but the money's way better in commercial power, plus you avoid all the 108 BS. Only reason I can think of to recommend working a yard is if you want/need to be in that area.

jross · « **Reply #61 on:** Nov 04, 2004, 10:20 »

Hi (sorry if this is the wrong forum), I'm a physics/math undergrad at Cal Poly SLO, and I'm looking to work in the nuclear power industry; any suggestions on how to go about this? My interest is primarily in reactor research, but I'm trying to get info on what exactly Health Physics entails (any good sources for that?). I currently work at the CP Radioanalytic Facility doing enviornmental rad monitoring for PG&E's Diablo Canyon. Any help or guidance would be much appreciated!
-John Ross
Cal Poly Physics

Asa1 · « **Reply #62 on:** Nov 05, 2004, 12:52 »

jcross,

You're probably better off staying at a research facility versus a commercial plant. The big commecial plant people really aren't into reasearch; unless it's reasearch about making more money. There are plenty of labs out there that are always looking for help. Los Alamos, Sandia, Lawrence Livermore, Brookhaven just to name a few. Search Greg Sackett's job listings (or maybe it's U of M's page) for those research type of jobs. Good luck.

Nuclear Professor · « **Reply #63 on:** Nov 14, 2004, 11:01 »

Hi Heather7

If you are interested in pursuing higher education degree, I suggest checking the University of Cincinnati, they have a great program, this is a link to their website.

http://www.min.uc.edu/nuclear/htmfile/edu.html

Good luck

Ned Xoubi, Ms NE

skyraker · « **Reply #64 on:** Nov 18, 2004, 12:32 »

Not sure if this would go better on this board or on the Navy Nuke board.

I'm a current Navy Nuke MM getting out in mid-2005. I am trying to search for Maintenance/Mechanical jobs at Nuclear Plants, but 99% of the jobs I see listed for anything nuclear are Management/Engineer, Rad Health and Chemistry, or Operators. While Operations is one area I've thought of, it isn't my preferance. And I don't see myself as being really qualified for the vast majority of Management positions despite the supervision experience I do have.

Any suggestions on how to better locate these jobs?

Roll Tide · « **Reply #65 on:** Nov 18, 2004, 01:43 »

Patience for now, and go OPS if you don't spot a maintenance vacancy. There are many aging maintenance workers (higher percentage than HP or OPS at most plants) at US Nukes, and they will be retiring en masse shortly.

When they do, the floodgates will open for new hires. OPS training will put you in good shape to move up quickly in maintenance fields.

Phurst · « **Reply #66 on:** Nov 18, 2004, 04:38 »

Always go ops, ALWAYS. With operations training you can go anywhere, as a maintenance man you will only do maintenance. Most maintenance personnel are not trained like the Navy because commercial nukes don't have the same standards of quality so maintenance personnel are a dime a dozen. As an operator, and exNavy Nuke, you can move quickly to management such as SRO where they will burn you out and then ship you off to work control, training, and EP. From there you can run any department except maybe RP. Good Luck!!

skyraker · « **Reply #67 on:** Nov 23, 2004, 12:31 »

A small adendum to my post. I read somewhere that typically the Operations progression is from NLO to Operator to SRO.

The description I got of NLO makes me think that what I have done in the Navy would be somewhat equal to what is expected by an NLO. Is this true? And if so, do companies usually hire workers straight into RO? Or is it more like a hierachy situation where you pretty much have to start at the bottom?

Already Gone · « **Reply #68 on:** Nov 23, 2004, 01:41 »

I just want to inject a note of reality here. "Starting at the bottom" in some plants as a non-licensed operator is hardly an entry-level position. Unless you go to San Onofre or the deep south, you can expect to start at well over fifty grand your first year. By the time you finish your training, you'll be doing 100k with overtime. And as an added bonus, you will no longer have to paint and scrub your equipment. Someone else gets paid to do that, you just turn the valves and switches. You won't have to run battle station drills during the time you were supposed to be sleeping. And the floor will always be in the same place when you take the next step as it was for the last one. So, don't let the idea discourage you. It's a good gig, and there is a career path ahead of you.

You are right about those management jobs, unless you are at least a Commander you won't get near one right out of the Navy.

The maintenance jobs do not require the level of training that you have. They are the basic mechanic, electrician, boilermaker kind of jobs. The only exception is instrument maintenance. If you hate working rotating shifts, you should consider that, but I&C techs don't get promoted the way operators do. There are about three or four NLO's per shift on a single-unit plant. There are two or three Control Operators, with a Senior Reactor Operator, and a Shift Superintendent. You see? The heirarchy narrows but not as much as all the other jobs at the plant, where there are twenty workers to one foreman - you have to wait for nineteen other guys to retire just to get your first promotion.

If I had it to do all over again, I'd have gone to ops after the Navy.

Bingo · « **Reply #69 on:** Nov 23, 2004, 02:19 »

BNFL is always looking for maintainance and ops technicians at their Idaho Facility.
http://bnflinc.com/

Quote from: skyraker on Nov 18, 2004, 12:32

Not sure if this would go better on this board or on the Navy Nuke board.

I'm a current Navy Nuke MM getting out in mid-2005. I am trying to search for Maintenance/Mechanical jobs at Nuclear Plants, but 99% of the jobs I see listed for anything nuclear are Management/Engineer, Rad Health and Chemistry, or Operators. While Operations is one area I've thought of, it isn't my preferance. And I don't see myself as being really qualified for the vast majority of Management positions despite the supervision experience I do have.

Any suggestions on how to better locate these jobs?

Eightmile · « **Reply #70 on:** Nov 24, 2004, 08:27 »

Ok, here's the deal. For the last 16 months I've learned how to be a junior RP Tech at Big Rock, mainly focusing on bulk material release, with occasional sojourns into the other side of the house (ops) for some nearly-real RP experience. Directly prior to this I spent 5 years as an admin assistant at Fermi in the training department, a job I loved to tears but also one that didn't pay beans.

I realize that decom isn't the best RP experience to have to get farther out into the real nuke world, although it was a great opportunity for me, having done nothing more previously than help during an outage as PCM watch. And I realize that if I try to head off to another plant, I probably have a good chance at getting some great experience. I actually had planned to try to head to Fermi this year for RF09 as a junior, but real life issues got in the way.

My problem is that... well... moving out of a comfortable (if unpleasant at times) niche is very difficult for me. I came up to the Rock only because another friend was making a leap of faith at the same time. When it comes to thinking about going someplace new, all by myself, where I could *gasp* do something wrong or find out yet again that there are gabillions of things I don't know... the stress starts to pile up.

In the same manner, I realize that the Rock is on its way down, and I can only hold this job out for just so long. As well, my fresh-from-the-Navy boyfriend is searching for a job elsewhere, and I'll be trudging along with him when he finally lands something. So sometime real soon here I'm going to have to branch out, as frightening as the prospect is.

What I was wondering is if there are almost-equitable options out there, something nuke-related, with pay near to equal, where I could slowly learn the ins and outs of this industry, or if it's better to jump in with both feet, eyes closed and nose plugged. I had planned to go back to office work when my boyfriend gets a job, but even I'm not so dense as to think that office work will come close to maintaining the lifestyle I'm used to now, unless the job interview fairy hands me an executive assistant position with a decent salary package, complete with a brand-new appropriate wardrobe.

At this point, if I stay in the Nuke industry, anywhere I go I'll be going alone. And even tho I tend to become quite the social butterfly, I rarely make close friends, and the beginning meet-and-greet part brings out the shy side of me ten-fold.

So does anyone have any suggestions for a scaredy cat? Even tho I've always talked about travelling the country, right now my comfort zone tends to be within driving distance of home. I've been considering training in a corner of my mind - is it worth it? And does anyone else have the initial job-site heeby-jeebies, and how do they get over them? I like what I know of the industry so far, and would love to continue... I'm just not sure what the best path is to take.

Dan_E. · « **Reply #71 on:** Nov 25, 2004, 01:13 »

Eightmile,
Jump! But keep both eyes open, though you may have to plug your nose once in a while.
Yes, you'll get the "heeby-jeebies" but you wouldn't be human if you didn't. I started off going clear across the country, bombing the Jr. test by one question and deconning my first outage. You learn and try not to repeat the same mistakes.
Don't be afraid to ask for help and you'll get it, nukeworkers of all professions will help you out if they can.

Eightmile · « **Reply #72 on:** Nov 25, 2004, 11:03 »

Dan, thanks for the response. One of the things I have noticed (and have known since I was 14 when I first started visiting my mom for Bring Your Kid to Work day at a Nuke site haha) is that there are so many folks in the industry that are great to deal with.

Looks like I've gotta work on my confidence and then maybe take a dive... hopefully I'll be able to get over the belly flops I'll take along the way!

Karma to you for your response, and thanks again

jradcop · « **Reply #73 on:** Nov 26, 2004, 01:33 »

Have you considered trying Bruce Power
I know that they were looking for more MM
go to http://brucepower.com
Search in through the careers section.

Stix · « **Reply #74 on:** Nov 26, 2004, 05:13 »

I assume that you don't want to travel since that has been what you have been doing for the past several years, but if you are interested in travel, or you are not sure where you want to settle down, you could consider working for contract maintenance companies. This option allows you to see the various plants before you hire on permanently and the area that they are in. This also allows you to see the internal jobs before they hit the streets and devolop internal contacts. Some companies, for example, would be Westinghouse, Atlantic, and Venture to name a few. Check the links on the Featured companies of this site, and try the links on the roadtechs site under nuclear. Good luck.

SloGlo · « **Reply #75 on:** Nov 27, 2004, 11:47 »

Quote from: Eightmile on Nov 24, 2004, 08:27

Ok, here's the deal. For the last 16 months I've learned how to be a junior RP Tech at Big Rock, mainly focusing on bulk material release, with occasional sojourns into the other side of the house (ops) for some nearly-real RP experience.
My problem is that... well... moving out of a comfortable (if unpleasant at times) niche is very difficult for me. I came up to the Rock only because another friend was making a leap of faith at the same time. When it comes to thinking about going someplace new, all by myself, where I could *gasp* do something wrong or find out yet again that there are gabillions of things I don't know... the stress starts to pile up.
What I was wondering is if there are almost-equitable options out there, something nuke-related, with pay near to equal, where I could slowly learn the ins and outs of this industry, or if it's better to jump in with both feet, eyes closed and nose plugged. So does anyone have any suggestions for a scaredy cat? Even tho I've always talked about travelling the country, right now my comfort zone tends to be within driving distance of home. I've been considering training in a corner of my mind - is it worth it? And does anyone else have the initial job-site heeby-jeebies, and how do they get over them?

talk with the sr rp people on the site who are working for contractors. look to find out from them d&d contractors who have contracts in your neighborhood. you may have to expand your definition of neighborhood beyond what mr. rogers referenced. but having done bulk release of materials at big rock, you at least have some idea of what can get involved doing this job. trust me, you probably know as much about this as some of the greybeards that inhabit this site from the powerblock side of the industry. there is nothing wrong with maintenance of a comfort zone, although one may find they have to redefine it to fit with the reality.
if there are no hits on the first step, look for sites getting ready for remediation work in your region. remediation is different than d&d, as there is no delicense work involved during remediation. one approach to this would be to shotgun letters to the employers listed here at nukeworker.com. another approach would be to cruise the federal epa site, and the epa sites of states that are included in your comfort zone.
should these searches fail to yield interesting items for cognitive inclusion, there is always the powerblocks. get it touch with contractors that supply techs to the power plants and look for jr. rp positions. be prepared for the cranial reconstruction that will be forthcoming.
training traditionally doesn't pay as well as occupations in the performance end of the industry. however, it is a welcome touchy-feely area of employment. the good paying positions are for them what have a personal knowledge base to teach from. until you know how stuff works, it's tough to teach it, public educators aside.

don't worry about the heebie-jeebies. iffen it wuzant fer da butterflies in my stomach, i'd never be able to phleye.
good luck.

CL · « **Reply #76 on:** Dec 24, 2004, 04:36 »

Hi, people.. I am currently working in the IT industry.. and I hate it. Now Pickering, Ontario Canada is currently looking for Control Technician. So I am thinking of appling..

However, I have concern working in a Nuclear Power Plant. In the job description, it already told that I will expose to low level of radations.. Now, there had been lot of talks about living near the Power Plant could cause Cancer.. If I work there... you know what I mean.....

Seem many of you working in this feilds for many years... Can anyone here give me some advise? Is working in an Nuclear Power Plant save and worth it?? Any report of Cancer cases amount workers??? Many Thanks..

Nuclear NASCAR · « **Reply #77 on:** Dec 24, 2004, 06:04 »

Here's a good place to get some answers to your questions: http://www.nukeworker.com/study/radiation_faqs/index.shtml

I've worked for a utility company for just over 20 years, but I've only been in the nuclear end for 6 1/2 years. I had many of the same worries you have now back then. I wish this site had been around then. I'd have felt better about working here sooner.

You've come to the right place to get answers to your questions. Welcome aboard.

CL · « **Reply #78 on:** Dec 24, 2004, 06:14 »

Thank you very much... It is this kind of site (below) that made me worry...

http://www.blackhole.on.ca/nuclear_oldest.htm

Pickering Power Plant accounding the above website, is the oldesnt nuclear power plant in the country... and what they said inside that website making me very worry... I actually working accross the streets from it now... it sounded like it is saver working inside the plant then outside....

RAD-GHOST · « **Reply #79 on:** Dec 26, 2004, 06:55 »

No matter what environment you choose to endeavor in, your looking at many hazards. The best advice, is to work for a company that educates and advocates safety in it's industry. Straight out of the blocks, the posting explained the potential of being exposed to low level radiation!

That's a Very Good Start!

The website you referenced, is an " ANTI " opinion, based on the long shots! Which, in fact, is the bases of design for most Nuclear Power Stations. I haven't had my ear to the news lately, but I can't recall hearing about a lot of seismic activity in Canada, in past years! Possible, YES! Probable, NO! If a seismic event did take place, which could cause damage to the facility, would the plant be your biggest worry? These Anti-Nuke groups are simply looking for their 15 minutes of importance and usually pushing their venue for a buck! Either a Book, or a T-Shirt, it's usually all about the bucks!

Age of the plants, is another concern. Todays utilities run them longer and harder, which does influence component malfunctions, but you have to view the overall big picture! These plants were not assembled with parts from the local hardware store! They were assembled with reliable components from a variety of industries, all with proven track records. Many of the safety systems are redundent, two or three fold! That's like having a spare engines, or two, in your car, ready to run at the flip of a switch!

Radiation Exposure: In the past decades it was simply part of the job. Today it is one of the prime indicators of a plants performance, World Wide! Unlike a lot of industries, the hazards associated with low level exposure have yet to be determined. The world wide population, of low level exposed individuals, hasn't established any specific statistical pattern, as of yet! Other Industries don't have it so lucky! The products of some of their processes, doesn't allow a lot of room for error, some ZERO!

One final note, you have to appreciate the website name, " Blackhole "! Seems like an Appropriate Name!

RG

CL · « **Reply #80 on:** Dec 28, 2004, 11:05 »

Thanks for all the info. I am applying... I hope I can get in..

I looked up, Health Canada only allow worker to had 50 mSv a year or 100 mSv for 5 years. How much is allow in the U.S.? Just wondering...

Below is the link.

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/english/iyh/environment/exposure.html

Tina · « **Reply #81 on:** Dec 29, 2004, 11:18 »

WOW I would like to send a " BIG KUDOS" to all who have made contribution to this thread...

I have been sending out resumes one after another and making follow up calls for over a month now and trying to keep a positive attitude toward my endevors by using the mind set of "If a person throws enough mud somethings bound to stick"...

And I'm currently still plugging away with hopes of "After the First of the Year"....

But this information that I have just read will make me take two maybe even three steps back and regroup. I'm glad to hear there is a system to the madness... and I want to thank all of you for this well need kick in the pants ...

There really is a Santa Claus

now on with my second wind

Already Gone · « **Reply #82 on:** Dec 29, 2004, 01:58 »

If you're going to be working in IT at Pickering, you will likely receive no exposure at all. Most of the plant contains no radioactive systems at all. Those areas that do have any, have relatively few computers in them, and even those areas have very low radiation levels.
Even though you are allowed 50mSv per year, OPG wil limit you to 10. Most people who work there receive far less than 1mSv per year.

By the way, Canada does not use the SI units of Sieverts, Grays, Becquerels,... etc. They, like the US, use the older units REM, RAD, and Counts Per Minute. 1milliSievert is equal to 100 millirem.

septemberfreedom · « **Reply #83 on:** Jan 31, 2005, 02:58 »

Help me please!

I was a reactor operator on an SSN. I made e-6 in five years(without re-upping). I was the LPO for 2 years. Where do I go to get into the operations line of work? Should I seriously be looking for an entry-level job? I don't want to sound conceited, I just don't know where to be looking or what to be looking for. Who do I need to send my resume to (names & addresses)? I separated in Oct. 2004 and am completing the TESC nuke eng. tech. BS degree. Any answers would be greatly appreciated.

Fermi2 · « **Reply #84 on:** Jan 31, 2005, 11:59 »

Minimum qualifications for an entry level position. I hope that doesn't sound harsh because it's not meant to be. You have the bare minimum qualifications for an Operations or maintenance position, and since you don't have a Masters or an SRO License you don't have the qualifications for a management position.

Get an entry level Ops position, you'll make a LOT of money, and eventually if you show common sense and judgement you'll end up with an SRO License.

I already have an SRO License on a BWR, and soon will be employed at Sequoyah where I'll get an SRO License. Can you say GOLD???

Mike

JnyMac · « **Reply #85 on:** Feb 02, 2005, 06:13 »

Help me out here guys. The last time I think anyone was hiring right into RO class was when the last big string of plants were being built. I work at Palo Verde and the Operations progression process is NLO, RO, and then SRO. We have NLOs from other utilities that have held RO and SRO licenses. That does not mean they go directly to class. The RO selection states that you must be fully qualified as an NLO. Then pass a selection test with 50 plant knowledge and 50 License fundamentals questions. Then the Shift Managers gather and rate your work, personnality, and professionalism. These all combined get you into class. Some guys make it on the first attempt. Others will never make it. The NLO position is great and quite rewarding. The money is great and resonsibility low. It sounds like an entry level position but when you are fully qualified it is more like a journeyman position. Hope that helps.

shayne · « **Reply #86 on:** Feb 03, 2005, 03:38 »

Quote from: JnyMac on Feb 02, 2005, 06:13

The money is great and resonsibility low.

This is the reason many NLOs stay where they are.

Quote from: septemberfreedom on Jan 31, 2005, 02:58

Should I seriously be looking for an entry-level job? I don't want to sound conceited, I just don't know where to be looking or what to be looking for. Who do I need to send my resume to (names & addresses)? [/left]

Company websites under careers or jobs is a start. Keep your eyes open here, I have seen job information posted in the forums. Like stated on this thread, NLO is entry point, but not entry level. I have found that most nuclear plants would rather pay to license their own NLO before taking someone off the street.

Nuclear NASCAR · « **Reply #87 on:** Feb 03, 2005, 11:22 »

Quote from: Shayne on Feb 03, 2005, 03:38

This is the reason many NLOs stay where they are.

Company websites under careers or jobs is a start. Keep your eyes open here, I have seen job information posted in the forums. Like stated on this thread, NLO is entry point, but not entry level. I have found that most nuclear plants would rather pay to license their own NLO before taking someone off the street.

Well said Shayne. It's usually easier to license someone who knows the systems of a particular plant through experience than to bring in a Licensed RO from another plant. I only speak from my own limited experience. That can also be the advantage to having a Union contract at a site. By setting Lines of Promotion Non-Licensed Operators are given the chance at a Reactor Operator position by seniority. At Callaway RO's are members of the bargaining unit.

shayne · « **Reply #88 on:** Feb 04, 2005, 01:15 »

Quote from: Nuclear NASCAR on Feb 03, 2005, 11:22

It's usually easier to license someone who knows the systems of a particular plant through experience than to bring in a Licensed RO from another plant.

Not to forget that management knows what kind of person they are placing into an RO position.

Quote

At Callaway RO's are members of the bargaining unit.

Our RO's are not covered by the same Union contract as the NLO. So advancement to an RO position may come sooner than later if that is what you desire (Senority not a factor). But on the other end, the benefits of being in the Union may outweigh the opportunity. I have seen some NLO's that would like to move to an RO position and when given the opportunity they do not because they wish to stay in a union position because of the benefits. Depends on the individual needs and wants.

CL · « **Reply #89 on:** Feb 17, 2005, 08:44 »

Thanks for all the input... Well.. The job is "Control Technician" I look at the PDF file on their website. If I got the job, I have to first go through training, then they assign us into groups... I may ended up in IT may be not... Which I not really care... the IT field is dead, that is why I wanted to move on to other field of work.

I put my applaction at the end of December @ OPG website, I heard nothing yet! And for some reason in mid February, OPG posted that same job again!! I really hope I can get in.. but by the looks of it...

xxxsessive · « **Reply #90 on:** Feb 18, 2005, 01:10 »

I just completed the RCT Core in Oak Ridge and was wondering what comes next. I have some college but no degree. What other training can I obtain and work a 40 hr.+ a week job? What are good entry level jobs to shoot for, who are the players in town that I can inundate with resumes and bug the whiz out of? I don't mind travelling a bit on short term work to gain experience. Any comments would be greatly appreciated.

Nuclear NASCAR · « **Reply #91 on:** Feb 18, 2005, 01:18 »

The first thing I'd suggest is what I'd suggest to anyone just getting started in this business and on this site. Look through the Career forums on Nukeworker that interest you as many of your questions may have already been answered or at least partially answered. You've come to the right place to find out what you'll need to get started and to keep improving that's for certain.

Welcome to Nukeworker!!

Rennhack · « **Reply #92 on:** Feb 18, 2005, 03:41 »

Call Kelly Services, they need RCT's

xxxsessive · « **Reply #93 on:** Feb 23, 2005, 01:58 »

Well I have hit Kelly, Denuke, Aerotek with resumes and will get SEC. It seems like everybody is waiting for the federal budget to see what they need. Any other companies pop into mind that would be worth paying a visit to. Who is the person at Kelly that can get things done, the receptionist was the only one there.

Dr. Evil · « **Reply #94 on:** Apr 03, 2005, 12:17 »

I was wondering how many Nukeworker members out there are
Radiochemistry/Nuclear Chemistry Technicians. I'm looking for a house position somewhere and would like to get some insider contacts. I have experience in nuclear power as a chem tech.

Dr. E

Eightmile · « **Reply #95 on:** Oct 12, 2005, 04:47 »

Not to breathe life into an older thread, but this is some good information (I wish I'd known this was here way back when my brother was "searching" for a job by planting his butt on my couch, but oh well...)

Now, for a question somewhat related to job searching - I'm trying to rewrite my resume as an HP in the nuke industry, but I'm having some minor problems. I'm used to adding "fluff and stuff" to it for office work (5 years as an admin assistant, where getting a job is solely dependent sometimes on how creatively you can describe "type, copy, transcribe" haha) but after slightly more than 2 years as a junior/senior at a non-operating facility, I know that fluff isn't quite what these places need.

Knowing that going to an operating facility will put me back into the realm of juniors (not such a bad thing, that one...) I'm trying to figure out how to put just the facts into the resume - meter quals, daily/routine surveys, etc., etc. I've gotten some decent advice from one of my co-workers with nearly 20 yrs experience, but I'm also looking for some contrasting points of view. What should/should not go on this resume? How detailed should I be? Should there be any fluff what-so-ever?

I recently took the NUF, and passed with an 84%, so I know that should go on there someplace... but what else? Any help would be much appreciated!

BlackOmen · « **Reply #96 on:** Jan 04, 2006, 06:29 »

Hello Nukeworker.com, I had a question (or a few), assuming (rightfully so) that you guys are quite knowledgeable on the nuclear mining trade.
For education-related research, I am required to find out the following:
What types of jobs are available in the Uranium Mining Industry?
I need some detail on four different (preferably dominant) jobs, and what skills and what type of education one would need to qualify for these jobs? Where would someone obtain these skills and this education? As well, what would a general idea of salary be?
Finally, out of interest, I would like to know how uranium workers in "far-out" areas live, more specifically where.
Thanks a lot, I appreciate it.

alphadude · « **Reply #97 on:** Jan 10, 2006, 09:08 »

Few to none. The bottom dropped out of the market a decade or more ago. Lots if not most of the U now comes from phosphate mining. Its a waste product of that industry and they have lots of it. Some of those waste piles at phosphate mines are in the mRems/hour and 100 mR hot spots can be found, along with H3PO4. There are rumors that New Mexico wants to open another U mine but I havent heard much on that lately. Mining skills? read, write, keep your head down and have a spare set of lungs. I guess Canada still mines as well as lots of foreign contries. I'm out west now and U is easy to find when rock hunting. Some of the outcrops are yellow as gold. No one has an interest in it much.

alphadude · « **Reply #98 on:** Jan 10, 2006, 09:14 »

In general, heavy equipment ops, explosive ops, and mine eng.

labor not a lot of skills there other than training on loading equipment and safety equipment. The pay comes from the risk, which open pit mining has reduced. Canada has a viable mining system, third world mining is sporatic at best with the exception of those with ambitions to do something wicked. the skill set is the same as any hard rock mining operation. dig the yellow stuff, not the black stuff (coal) See the other posting. the phosphate industry produces lots of waste U.

TWillis · « **Reply #99 on:** Jan 10, 2006, 06:25 »

Just my two cents. As someone who got into this business through the mining/milling industry, and miss it by the way, I do follow the the uranium mining business. There has been an up turn in the business over the past year and a half.

As stated above the market for "yellow cake" crashed in 1983 for many reasons, over production, reduced futures market, and not in small part, due to an individual who tried to corner the market. This attempt was not disimilar to the Hunt brothers attempt to corner the Silver market, which still has not recovered.

Reduction of stockpiled reserves through use and a vastly reduced supply of newly mined/milled in the period since 1983, is now driving the price for 'yellow cake" to levels not seen since 1983. From 1983 until October of 2004 the market price was fairly stable in the $10 - $12 per pound range, the spot price today is $36.25. This is an economically viable price even for underground mining operation here in the US. Friends of mine, geologists, with uranium exploration/production experience are turning down job offers, definately something not seen since 1983.

Perfecting of solution mining methods has become one of the more preferred methods for lower content ores. These operations due not require many personnel to operate. But with prices at these levels more than a few of the labor heavy undergound operation have applied for license renewal and some mining companies are concidering the viability of new mines. The majority of these operation are located in the intermountain west, i.e. Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming.

At this point there are only two (2) operating mills, that I know of, in the US. One in Canon City, Colorado and one in Blanding, Utah, although I know that my former haunt, Shootering Canyon, Utah has applied to re-open and intends to be operational this year, 2006.

Probably more than what you wanted to know, without answering the original question.

TWillis · « **Reply #100 on:** Jan 10, 2006, 09:23 »

Ok, feeling guilty for not answering the questions asked. I can best speak of the underground mining end, but some will aply to surface/open pit mining.

What types of jobs are available?

To answer this accurately I would need to contact the mining companies themselves, as you may want to.

I need some detail on four different (preferably dominate) jobs...

Geologists, mine engineering, miners, and health/safety to include health physics.

Geologists: A degree is a must, and a post grad would help, although I've heard more than one mining company say that they don't like Ph.d's, "cost to much and they think they already know everything", or something like that. Most State Universities offer geology degrees though the universities in mining states are more likely to have better (and more respected) programs. There are colleges that specialize in geology/mining, Colorado School of Mines, South Dakota School of Mines, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, to name a few. With the degree one also needs the experience in the geology of uranium.

Salary: dependant on degree and experience ($35K - low 6 figures)

Mine Engineers: What applied above for geologists, also applies to mine engineers. Although knowledge specific to uranium may not be needed, knowledge/experience with the rock type, mostly, but not limited to sandstone.

Salary: dependant on degree and experience ($35K - low 6 figures)

Miners: Speaking for underground operations only, miners usually work under contract, meaning, to keep it simple, that they are paid by the amount of rock they move. To expand that a little bit, they get paid an hourly wage and by the amount of rock they move and the grade (Uranium content), this is adjusted for the distance the miners have to move the material, i.e. deeper in the mine, farther away from the dump, more money. Miners are normally compensated for the number of roof support bolts they install, installing these takes time away from breaking/moving rock. There are other things that take time away from the main objective of moving rock that are usually compensated.

Contract miners are usually compensated through a graded system, a "C" miner (apprentice), "B" Miner (Journyman), and "A" (Master), each getting paid a graded percentage of the contract amount.

Of course any mining company wants you to come in with experience, but due to where most Uranium mining is performed, i.e. the boonies, most have training programs.

Salary: Hard to say these days, there are so few left, but likely in the $35k - 100K range. The more rock you break and the better you are at keeping the grade (this does take skill and experience), the more you make.

Health/Safety and Health Physics: Well you have this Wedsite to direct you on that part of your research.

Salary: likely in $30k - 70k range, depending on position. Sorry guys no diem.

As far as the living experience, I spent close to 5 years living in Ticaboo, Utah, 250 miles away from the nearest mall, movie theater, etc. The nearest next town is 60 miles away and most of those folks worked at the mine or mill. I miss it alot.

Mining towns, anywhere, are a little ruff and tumble (work hard/playhard), but usually people you can count on.

Oh, by the way we were 10 miles from Bullfrog marina on Lake Powell. In the summertime, and its a fairly long one, fishing, water skiing, girls.....

Hope this helps you out with your research

huckawayne · « **Reply #101 on:** Jul 22, 2006, 02:48 »

Hello, I will be separating from the navy in 2 weeks. Been in for 11 years, MM/LELT/EWS. Moving back to Jefferson City, MO. Want to work for Callaway. Really want a job in OPS. Does anyone know when they are hiring the next Aux Operator Class? Also trying to get a contact phone number to the human resources dept. so I can talk to someone. Does anyone out there work for Callaway that can give me some info on the plant?

Nuclear NASCAR · « **Reply #102 on:** Jul 22, 2006, 03:46 »

Hi Huckawayne,
I work at Callaway. I haven't heard when the next Ops class is going to be. We have an Asst. equipment operator class going now that just started about 4 months ago. The next one probably won't be for another year. Check the Ameren site www.ameren.com and look at the jobs listing. Any Callaway jobs will have Fulton as the location. I believe that there are 4 Rad Chem Helper jobs on there right now. PM me if you have any questions.

Hope this helps,
Tom

huckawayne · « **Reply #103 on:** Jul 23, 2006, 12:30 »

thanks nuclear nascar. I have been visiting the website daily. I haven't seen the rad chem helper jobs posted, but I will keep watching.

ChiefRocscooter · « **Reply #104 on:** Aug 08, 2006, 11:02 »

I think this thread is well suited to what I am looking for (besides this is just plain great info/advice) so I will try and breath new life into it.
I am looking for input on what an Ex-Navy Nuke should emphasis in his resume. In my situation, a 23 year chief, should I go heavy on leadership/management or place more focus on operational experience? (FYI I am look for NLO (instant SRO, but I am not sure they would consider me for that))
I guess what I am wondering is what do you guys who work in the field think is important to the HR people. I know that may not match what you think is important but unforunatly I have to get through them to get to you

.
I have both Navy nuclear and Navy conventional plant experience (de-nuked 1989). How should I handle the de-nuke thing? I am not ashamed of it, I got a raw deal and have a letter from SUBLANT saying that I should be reinstated (never happened but figure the letter counts for something).

PS I would be happy to recieve (by email or PM) any resumes you guys have use in the past (hopefully one that worked

)

Thanks,
Rob

Fermi2 · « **Reply #105 on:** Aug 08, 2006, 01:43 »

Don't sweat the de nukerd thing. Be open an honest about it.

Wanna see my resume?

shayne · « **Reply #106 on:** Aug 08, 2006, 05:44 »

Quote from: ChiefRocscooter on Aug 08, 2006, 11:02

I am looking for input on what an Ex-Navy Nuke should emphasis in his resume. In my situation, a 23 year chief, should I go heavy on leadership/management or place more focus on operational experience? (FYI I am look for NLO (instant SRO, but I am not sure they would consider me for that))
I guess what I am wondering is what do you guys who work in the field think is important to the HR people. I know that may not match what you think is important but unforunatly I have to get through them to get to you .

My best advice would be gear the resume toward the specific job you are applying for. The job announcement is going to have all the required skills and job functions/duties. Your resume should include all your accomplishments/skills that match what the announcement is looking for. If the announcement lists operational experience, you resume will be mostly operations experience and maybe little management experience.

HR may be filtering your resume. They may not understand the terminology in both your resume or the announcement. However they can compare your resume with the announcement and filter based on how well it matches. So it isn't a bad idea to use the announcement to help write your own accomplishments and skills.

Fermi2 · « **Reply #107 on:** Aug 08, 2006, 07:10 »

One page MAXIMUM, anything longer is BS and boring.

Make it relevant, no one cares what you did 23 years ago. What I look for is..

1: Do you meet the basic quals for the position?

2: What have you done in the last 5 years?

3: How did your accomplishments help your group succeed. Saying you supervised 45 EMs in a division is meaningless trivia. Saying you supervised 45 EMs for a 3 year period without any personnel errors and 22 of these EMs were subsequently promoted tells me a lot.

4: No one cares if you oversaw a 2 million dollar budget what we doi care about is if you oversaw a budget did you meet it, and did you come up with ways to track how you were gonna meet it.

Anything else is a history lesson and mindless trivia.

Mike

ChiefRocscooter · « **Reply #108 on:** Aug 10, 2006, 09:56 »

I know I need to keep it in civilian terms as much as possible, but do they (HR) run them by people in OPs for input or feedback?

For #1 what do you consider to be the top 2 or 3 items that are the basic quals?

#2 last five years have been steam plant inspector and department supervisor would you consider that a draw back. Ie not actually doing operations on the plant?

#3 Good one for a senior Navy guy, do they place a premium on the ability to develop subordinates in the civilian plants? I this may sound like a dumb question, but us lifers have heard for years how in the civ world people do not go out of thier way to help you learn/advance becasue the more valuable they become the less valuable you may become.

#4 The money thing is somthing us not for profit guys

have to worry about a little less but I see your point. This does bring up another question though--- How does the civilian nuke world look at people who have been successful by doing thing different (outside the box thinking). I do not mean not doing the "JOB" right but I am thinking more about people who push for ways to improve the system or processes. Vauge, yes but I am wondering if I should put much emphisis on being a catylast for change and improvement. Or will that be looked at as being a non-comformist (I often thought nuc school should have started each day with the students reciting the pledge of alignece followed by the borg mantra of "Resistance is Futile, You Will Be Assimulated!!!")

Rob

ChiefRocscooter · « **Reply #109 on:** Aug 15, 2006, 05:55 »

How about recruiter? DO plants/companies use them or do they mostly relie on in house HR people. Ie should I work with a recruiter if I am trying to get in with Duke or other utilities like Dominion, TVA, Progress?

Rob

Roll Tide · « **Reply #110 on:** Aug 15, 2006, 02:58 »

Some companies use recruiters. But for OPS positions, typically they aren't using them. Most of the Southeast plants (besides FL) get a plethora of qualified applicants for the entry level positions. I think TVA only takes locals unless they need to expand the search due to HR concerns (diversity, Veteran's, etc.).

Some utilities typically use recruiters only to fill difficult slots (such as instructor certified previously licensed individuals that recently got called from here).

ChiefRocscooter · « **Reply #111 on:** Aug 29, 2006, 08:52 »

OK well I sent out my first resumes today (two to Duke sites, one to Dominion corporate) Anyone have recomendation for plant ops people to send resume to (tomorrw I will send in to Progress and FPL) Concentrating on SE for now.

Suggestions?

?

Rob

Roll Tide · « **Reply #112 on:** Dec 10, 2006, 07:15 »

I recently noted a post by a guy looking to get hired quick. Guess this deserves a bump.

ProjectStew · « **Reply #113 on:** Dec 28, 2006, 05:40 »

Hi,

Question as I work in the IT field for a software co. and we lose/compete for a lot of the work as it is sent to India, etc.

Does IT outsourcing exist in the North American nuclear design field? My understanding is this is not the case, especially in a union environment.

Is this a misconception on my part?

Thanks,

RRhoads · « **Reply #114 on:** Dec 28, 2006, 08:10 »

seems like it may be a misconception.....just look at Dell for example..their tech support might as well be a direct dial to India!

ProjectStew · « **Reply #115 on:** Dec 29, 2006, 09:28 »

I was expecting to hear outsourcing does not occur in nuclear field

Fermione · « **Reply #116 on:** Dec 29, 2006, 09:51 »

Our major utility has it's help desk in Toronto.

RRhoads · « **Reply #117 on:** Dec 29, 2006, 12:44 »

I thought it was in general....sorry.
At the plant i work at, the IS/IT dept is a NON- Bargining unit..IE non-union & it is not out-sourced..but we are a relatively small utility.
Probably like that at most utilities i presume...the non-union thing.

HydroDave63 · « **Reply #118 on:** Dec 29, 2006, 01:06 »

Quote from: Fermione on Dec 29, 2006, 09:51

Our major utility has it's help desk in Toronto.

"So your network connection is oat...bad luck,eh?..."

ProjectStew · « **Reply #119 on:** Dec 29, 2006, 06:51 »

Quote from: Fermione on Dec 29, 2006, 09:51

Our major utility has it's help desk in Toronto.

Interesting that would be outsourced to Toronto...might as well outsource that to somewhere further away.

Is it better to work in a union environment or non?

wlksjstn · « **Reply #120 on:** Dec 30, 2006, 06:38 »

Hello everybody. I've been a machinist since I have been in high school and have both a Journeyman Cert. and a Manufacturing Engineering degree, and for approximately 9 years and for the last 8 months I have been doing field service work for a global milling machine manufacturer.

The nuclear field has facinated me for the longest time, and I happen to live 'close' to Davis Besse and the Perry plant in Northern Ohio. Both my good friend and uncle work for First Energy as Journeyman Lineman/Substation Supervisor, and are always trying to get me to jump fence.

I guess what I am asking is if there is any place in the Nuke field for a guy like me? Work ethic and skills in my field aren't much of a problem at all, but I'm very very green at the idea of the Nuke field and don't know any details at all, or even where to start if you catch my drift. I'm the type of guy who is always looking for the next rung on the ladder and can just feel myself getting stuck in a rut.

Any opinions would be great! wlksjstn@yahoo.com

SloGlo · « **Reply #121 on:** Dec 30, 2006, 08:07 »

machinists are in great demand in the nuke field, both as in house at nuke plants and for vendors during outages for on site work and at the repair facilities. inasfar as i know, the equipment is not all that different. the main difference should be that alot of detail is paid to the waste stream. this would include the scrap from the material, lubes 'n other liquid wastes, and the small particles which you may be used to as dust and grime. all of these compound the work as their containments are mandatory and can cause some consternation when they interfer with the "normal way things are done".

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #122 on:** Dec 30, 2006, 08:25 »

Well here goes.

I started applying for jobs at various Nuclear Power plants about 6 weeks ago. Well I have gotten three real responses so far, which I am feeling pretty good about. The first two were for Aux Operator positions or what I believe you folks have been referring to as NLO's. The first of these was in NC (New Hill???) and was unlikely since it had a start date of Jan 2, 2007. The second was for Duane Arnold in IA. Which, by the way, is a little werid to see FLORIDA Power and Light in Iowa. The third and perhaps most "responsive" reponse was for a Chemistry Technician position in Calvert Cliff's MD. By responsive I mean they wanted to interview ASAP, began talking about benefits/relocation/etc. They also quoted me a starting salary (without asking) higher than what I have seen for NLO postions in discussions here, though I guess that is relative since those salaries, for NLO, appear to be tiered to the progress you make in training.

My first question is what does a Chem Tech do? I was an ELT in the Navy, so any correlation to that would be great.

What do you think of Chem Techs? I see alot of you post as HP Techs or Operators. Are Chem techs operations or something else. The position is shift work. Is this a great way to get experience in company to pursue other things like RO, management, HP???

What is the consensus of Calvert Cliff's? If nothing else what is the area like? I googled the area and it "looks" like it should be beautiful. I grew up in Hampton, VA as an USAF brat so I have good memories of that. My main worry is that it would be super expensive, so maybe that is why the higher starting salary exists.

I am sure I will think of something else, but I dont want this to get beyond scope of the forum. It took me a half an hour to come up with the title, and it looks rather lame. Sorry for that.

cairnit · « **Reply #123 on:** Dec 30, 2006, 08:45 »

Hi Cincy,

Quite a few of us on this board have worked at Calvert Cliffs in some capacity. It is coastal area of Maryland, and is considered by some to be a suburb of D.C. (though located at least 1-2 hr south). Area can be expensive, but then there are expensive places in most areas.

Usually the chem techs keep track of water chemistry in the various systems and also perform gamma spec analysis of sample and items to be release from the Radiation Controlled Area, among other things.

I saw the ?? in your post by New Hill. That would be Shearon Harris Nuclear Plant, New Hill is barely a town and is located between Sanford and Raleigh, NC. If you look on the map, just look for the town of Apex and you will be close. Shearon Harris was actually my home plant for lots of years.

Hope this info helps.

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #124 on:** Dec 30, 2006, 09:14 »

So am I safe to assume that a chem tech is more analytical?? My thought is how much HP stuff is a Chem Tech likely to do?? In the Navy we did both, so I wonder if in a civilian plant it will be much more exclusive to performing analyses?

So, what happens to Chem Techs during an outage? Are their systems requiring upkeep or do they join in with what is going on...kind of an all hands thing?

Where are the inexpensive areas? Would I have to go to VA or are there some near the plant? I dont mind being out in the middle of nowhere, since I am now. The handle is Cincinnati, but only the job is there. I live in Indiana, though not very far into it mind you. It helps in that I dont have to listen to every obnoxious "The" Ohio State Univ. fan. I never thought I would say it, but I am actually going to be pulling for Florida.

What is dare I ask a typical home range from? You know 3BR, 2 BA a yard?? How much are **GULP** property taxes in an area as exclusive as this? Keep in mind my and the wife's family live in Alabama. I think property taxes are voluntary..only kidding.

M1Ark · « **Reply #125 on:** Dec 30, 2006, 10:29 »

You need to PM JMK. He started at the Cliffs about a year ago right out of the navy as a Chem Tech. He was also an ELT.

hamsamich · « **Reply #126 on:** Dec 31, 2006, 12:39 »

I was an ELT, an operator, a Chem Tech, and now i am an HP. I think being a chemtech is like being an ELT except you have to qualify on many more analysis, much more involved technically. For instance, you will be looking for specific Isotopic Analysis now instead of just Uci/ml. And you aren't allowed to operate as many valves as you used to be since you are only a Chem Tech now. At some plants chemtechs are back-up HPs in some cases. they don't do too much HP stuff usually. In an outage chemtechs support outage work but the job doesn't change as much for chemtechs as some other jobs. you still have to get samples, just some different ones. you may do more samples that aren't normally done during non-outage. at some plants (like Salem) chemtechs do some operations stuff, like operating filtration and demin systems. many plants have pure water supplied by a culligan man type of guy so there will be no Demin plant to run USUALLLY. Fermi, where i grew up, is cheap to live, but do you really want to live there?

anyway, calvert is nice, but I think it is fairly expensive, but maybe not as expensive as say Pilgrim in massachuss.

perform analysis on SG, primary, FW, PW many others
training
refill demin beds
some maintenance on a few systems
discharge logs in some cases
some plants the chemtechs refill chemicals nesc. for plant operation (sux!)
rotating shiftwork at SOME plants, but usually a combination of straight days with some shiftwork every now and then
operate Non Rad Waste at some plants

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #127 on:** Dec 31, 2006, 03:16 »

Thanks M1Ark for the suggestion. In fact as I PM'd JMK I got one back. There was lots of good advice from that and these posts. So a couple of quick questions.

1. A comment was made to me that 70% of Chem Techs are ex ELTs. Is the experience and training valuable or would I be introduced to a new way of doing things? Could a non-navy type do this and if so what are the qualifications? The reason I ask this is because I have seen alot of wrong assumptions trying to correlate USN to Civilian land. Alot of what has been said seems to show some redundancy to the Navy, but I would hate to make the wrong assumption.

Can someone elaborate on the training progress a little more? Does one start from the ground up no matter there previous experience? In other words, I probably dont get any different qual status for being an ELT, right? Is it classroom or just alot of pracfacs done on shift???

Actually, I think I will leave my questions to that for now. Thanks guys and gals.

Rad Sponge · « **Reply #128 on:** Dec 31, 2006, 05:18 »

Quote from: cincinnatinuke on Dec 31, 2006, 03:16

Thanks M1Ark for the suggestion. In fact as I PM'd JMK I got one back. There was lots of good advice from that and these posts. So a couple of quick questions.

1. A comment was made to me that 70% of Chem Techs are ex ELTs. Is the experience and training valuable or would I be introduced to a new way of doing things?

We are mostly ELTs, but there are many new things to learn that will build on what you have been doing. Atoms are still atoms and ions still act the same way.

The biggest differences for me were learning new procedure formats, new analytical methods, and SLOWING DOWN.

Yes that's right. SLOWING DOWN. Forget the Navy ELT way of rush rush rush. SLOOOOWWWWWWWWING DOWN.

It was a refreshing change once I accepted that I could move at a comfortable pace and no one was harping at me.

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #129 on:** Dec 31, 2006, 07:12 »

So, JMK, what your saying is no time requirements to draw the sample on the hour, call away RAM movement, get back to nucleonics, analyze CDA, DGA, and GA within time requirements all while hoping you set the lab up right. And assuming no added pressure of PM items like effluent samples, DF, etc. Or having the EOOW reluctant to back off of flank bells so you can draw your sample.

I think learning new methods would be great. Right now all I envision are the possibilities. I can understand why many of you guys/gals have stayed in this industry.

One last thing, are you made to memorize the sample sink procedure, recite it while performing it, all the while having some CDR look over you?

Only kidding. I have been reminiscing for about an hour now and things just keep popping up. Each is funny in its own right, thanks again folks.

Rad Sponge · « **Reply #130 on:** Jan 01, 2007, 11:39 »

Quote from: cincinnatinuke on Dec 31, 2006, 07:12

So, JMK, what your saying is no time requirements to draw the sample on the hour, call away RAM movement, get back to nucleonics, analyze CDA, DGA, and GA within time requirements all while hoping you set the lab up right. And assuming no added pressure of PM items like effluent samples, DF, etc. Or having the EOOW reluctant to back off of flank bells so you can draw your sample.

I think learning new methods would be great. Right now all I envision are the possibilities. I can understand why many of you guys/gals have stayed in this industry.

One last thing, are you made to memorize the sample sink procedure, recite it while performing it, all the while having some CDR look over you? Only kidding. I have been reminiscing for about an hour now and things just keep popping up. Each is funny in its own right, thanks again folks.

There are still time requirements, sampling frequencies, etc and there are procedures to get familiar with BUT its nothing like the Navy. You always have people looking out for you.

And the equivalent of DGA/CDA/GA is counted by someone else. You draw and prepare the sample and then hand it off to the Radioassay person who then counts it within the prescribed timeframe.

And there is no memorizing the procedures. Its right there for you. Some procedures can be done from memory, some must be opened up and referred to line by line, and some have to be two person reader-operator with circle-slash place keeping.

You still will get observed from time to time by managers and outside inspectors, but its nothing like ORSE.

kwicslvr · « **Reply #131 on:** Jan 05, 2007, 11:43 »

Being a chem tech is much like being an ELT. You will perform analytical chemistry just like in the Navy. The big difference is, at least at Calvert, you do not deal much with the radcon side of an ELT. The only radcon you deal with really is when you are pulling primary side samples. It will take you close to 2 years to be a fully qualified shift tech at which time you will go on shift. Until then it's pretty much day staff.

As JMK said, the pace of work and quals is much slower. Most ELT's straight out of the Navy hit the ground running but soon realize that it doesn't help that much. The nature of the qual beast will slow you down. Plus you will need that 2 years to really get to know the plant well.

Pay wise for chem techs is usually a little more than NLO's at the start and no matter where you go in the country they are paid about the same. A plus for Calvert is their relocation is probably one of the best in the country right now. It is an expensve area to live though. Any new house will cost north of $300,000 and those are hard to find. Most new stuff though is typically around $450,000. Even for a used 3 bedroom 2 bath with 1000sqft will run you close to 300,000.

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #132 on:** Jan 05, 2007, 01:34 »

Well its funny you bring up the pay difference between NLO's and Chem Techs. I got a call back from Duane Arnold and I am attempting to interview next Thursday, depending if arrangements can be made in time. It seems from the breakdown of pay and factoring in cost of living, I would start out a little lower, but there is a step increase every 6 months until your 2 1/2 year point which keeps it competitive. Start at ~25/hour and increase to ~29/hour, is what the sheet said. It sounds as if the qual progress is a little different (as is the job), but still will take some time.

So maybe you fine folks can clarify some things. "HR lady" (dont want to use real names) says the typical progression is 2 to 2 1/2 years to get fully qualified NLO/Aux Operator. Is this true? It was mentioned that the natural progression is to begin licensed operator (RO I guess?) quals. It seems to me this would be very competitive and not "guaranteed" and merely the likely progression. Is this true? Do NLO's after some amount of time become pushed to be Licensed Operators, since it benefits the company more. She brought up this argument in relation to why starting pay is more for Chem Techs initially, but the end of the rainbow is to be an RO, then SRO and operations is the way to go. Seems to me you could do both, but I am the one out of the know.

Relocation assisatance does seem attractive from what I hear about CC. Duane Arnold is a little different, ie a lump sum based on need. I am still waiting on details, but I will let you know. Probably has something to do with Cost of living in Iowa vs MD.

M1Ark · « **Reply #133 on:** Jan 05, 2007, 08:44 »

PM'd you with specific answers about Duane Arnold and it's parent company.

M1Ark

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #134 on:** Jan 06, 2007, 12:02 »

Quote from: honeycomb on Jan 05, 2007, 08:02

I was not offered a chem tech job. I don't think they hire you to be a Chem Tech to become a NLO. You could transfer if things work out. But, that is not the progression path that I have been shown.

Sorry for the confusion on this, but I was asking more along the lines of couldnt a chem tech and NLO both progress to RO/SRO? Or is the key word/letter "O" for operator? It would definitely be a bummer if as a chem tech I would have to start over as a NLO then RO, then SRO.

I guess my main concern, HC, is that I am 25 yo. I feel as if I am starting over somewhat from current career, after starting over from the Navy, after starting over from well....stupidity, adolescence, or whatever it is you start over from after high school and enlist. i have a wife and two kids and i would like to make a more permanent change here. So if experience from you guys says Chem Techs and NLO's can make the same progressions then my concern is moot. But if being in Chemistry limits me in the future yet pays more now versus an NLO position which provides better career paths down the road I definitely have something to ponder. I would appreciate yours or anyone elses feedback on this.

And to the moderators, if this post is straying from topic or out of category please advise on how to move, start anew, or rename the subject. I keep waiting for B'zilla to tell me to search out my answers I actually enjoy most of your posts, so that was only a friendly jab.

As for the other item (under-lined). Well as a matter of fact I was hired on the promise I would progress to RO/SRO as fast as possible. It was a requirement for my conditional hiring. So, Yes it is with some utilities.

The facility is union for the Aux Operators, so I may not be able to guarantee progression or expedite quals to get to the next stage. I am still curious as to how having licensed operators benefits a facility, at least more than what is minmally required. Is this like having having everyone qualify EWS, therefore they could fit anywhere on the watch bill?? Or am I totally in left field with that one? I get this gut feeling someone is going to answer this in 3 lines and I am going to feel dumb. Oh well its late.

Thanks HC and thanks in advance to my additional questions guys and gals.

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #135 on:** Jan 06, 2007, 12:03 »

Quote from: M1Ark on Jan 05, 2007, 08:44

PM'd you with specific answers about Duane Arnold and it's parent company.

M1Ark

Your reply has been PM'd to you. Thanks for the input!

Rad Sponge · « **Reply #136 on:** Jan 06, 2007, 11:49 »

At CC there is one place where a Chem Tech can cross over into OPs without starting over as an NLO.

That would be as a STA (Shift Technical Assistant), basically a licensed extra set of eyes in the control room. I think STA grew out of the TMI aftermath.

The Chem Tech would most likely need some sort of engineering or engineering technology degree coupled with the navy experience, plus some good recommendations from management.

That's one way. A seasoned chem tech could just switch to NLO and easily qualify NLO and move into a licensed class. After a couple of years as a chem tech you already have a good bit of integrated plant knowledge. Its an extra couple of years, but big picture its not going to hurt your career.

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #137 on:** Jan 06, 2007, 01:06 »

Thanks JMK. I do have the glorious ABET Excelsior Nuclear Engineering (*cough* Technology) degree, so perhaps my options arent as bad either way if the degree opens some doors later.

So I take it that going from Chemistry to NLO is not such a step back though certainly not lateral either. I can see how you could "easily" qualify, but how reluctant are Ops folks to allow Chem techs to make this move? I am sure its been done, but is it an easy transition?

I guess I get a little excited at the amount of avenues available, and I want to make sure they are truly available today and in the future.

Rad Sponge · « **Reply #138 on:** Jan 06, 2007, 08:07 »

Quote from: cincinnatinuke on Jan 06, 2007, 01:06

Thanks JMK. I do have the glorious ABET Excelsior Nuclear Engineering (*cough* Technology) degree, so perhaps my options arent as bad either way if the degree opens some doors later.

So I take it that going from Chemistry to NLO is not such a step back though certainly not lateral either. I can see how you could "easily" qualify, but how reluctant are Ops folks to allow Chem techs to make this move? I am sure its been done, but is it an easy transition?

I guess I get a little excited at the amount of avenues available, and I want to make sure they are truly available today and in the future.

People move around all the time. My boss was an NLO then he went to Maint, then RO, then Chem. People have switched from HP to Chem, Chem to OPs, Chem to Waste Management, etc.

I meant "easily" in the vain that after a few years as a Chem Tech, you have been exposed to so much in operations, that qualifying NLO wouldn't be hard especially for a former Navy nuke.

thedriver · « **Reply #139 on:** Jan 28, 2007, 04:34 »

HI. Ok first im "green" in the nuclear world. i work part time at FENOC's Perry plant doing house keeping. I'm going to lakeland community college for their Nuclear engineering technology degree. for my reactor theory class i need to wright a paper on what type of power plant i would build if i were a ceo of a utility(obviously nuclear

). does anyone have any good sites where i can get some good info(how much it cost to build a plant, pros/cons...)? TIA

JessJen · « **Reply #140 on:** Jan 28, 2007, 04:46 »

try to wiki it for starters.....are you looking for something thats still theoretical or a proven cost effective design? I would suggest looking into what MIT has been doing as of late with batteries and berkeleys got a wild little design http://www.coe.berkeley.edu/labnotes/1002/reactor.html .....get to googling!

thedriver · « **Reply #141 on:** Jan 28, 2007, 05:05 »

i'v been googleing/ wiki for several hours and havent come up with much. but ill keep trying. thanks

wlrun3@aol.com · « **Reply #142 on:** Jan 28, 2007, 05:41 »

...an understanding of why current plants exist is necessary...

...the nuclear barons, pringle...nuclear inc., hertsgaard...

Marlin · « **Reply #143 on:** Jan 28, 2007, 05:44 »

Try other universities web sites, NEI, Nucleartourist, DOE, etc.

jjordan · « **Reply #144 on:** Jan 28, 2007, 05:52 »

Inthe US only one design has been approved, Westinghouse. Most proposed plants are of this design. Two other coices would be Ariva, and GE, both pending approval. Try their web site for more info.
JJ

SloGlo · « **Reply #145 on:** Jan 28, 2007, 07:47 »

thedriver.... try to google "pebblebed reactor". although they are not being built on a commercial basis yet anywhere, this may be a good subject for a theoretical " iffen eye were a ceo, i'd build a reactor such as....." paper. there may not be as much competition for this paper as some types of plants as have been suggested. or there may be more, depending on your class contemporaries.

thedriver · « **Reply #146 on:** Jan 28, 2007, 09:12 »

perhaps i wasnt clear this paper is about curten generation reactors. so i neeed info on curent bwr's and pwr's. sry for the confustion.

JessJen · « **Reply #147 on:** Jan 29, 2007, 12:18 »

then check out westinghouses site for the AP1000......google it and youll find some interesting things your first hit...and for theoretical check out what indias doing with thorium

M1Ark · « **Reply #148 on:** Jan 29, 2007, 01:22 »

Google ESBWR, AP1000, AREVA EPR

The 3 leading designs based on current technology.

shayne · « **Reply #149 on:** Jan 29, 2007, 09:43 »

INL is working on the next generation of Reactors that may be some help.

http://nuclear.inl.gov/gen4/

SloGlo · « **Reply #150 on:** Jan 29, 2007, 08:06 »

Quote from: M1Ark on Jan 29, 2007, 01:22

Google ESBWR, AP1000, AREVA EPR

The 3 leading designs based on current technology.

when ya google these, take down the url for each company, go there and you should find the data you're seeking. wiki may help also. another tack to take would be, after the first two googlings, to go to some anti-nuke sites. they will have all the negatives per each type of site. aka the nimby reasons. these searches should give you a basis to construct your rough outline for your paper.

cincinnatinuke · « **Reply #151 on:** Mar 07, 2007, 07:51 »

I was searching around and saw that I did not leave a final disposition nor say thanks to everyone for their help.

I am heading back to CC on the 19th of March to do the security and psychological inprocessing. So yes I chose Chemistry over NLO and MD over IA and Constellation over FPL. I say it like that because that is exactly how it played out in my mind.

I never did feel one job or position was a clear cut favorite. Both NLO and chem tech seemed challenging and rewarding with avenues for progression in each. It did seem clear, however, that NLO's advancements are more obvious in its progression but I cant say that anything I have done has gone according to plan. If that were the case I would be referred to as Lt. Brink and preparing myself for a future at sea command of a sub one day or playing MLB for the Braves. In other words the jobs were both great, both a step (WAYYYY!!!!) up, and didnt leave me with a feeling of regret on either.

Maryland is beautiful, at least where the plant is. I know my girls are going to love having access to a beach and all the scenery that accompanies it. IA is something I think I appreciate more than my wife, who immediately thought she would die of boredom there or at least be attacked by ravenous corn. Both were great places to raise kids and had schools so it was indeed tough to choose. In the end, what the wife wants she gets, except for my truck. It is the only thing that is not in both of our names!

Constellation and FPL are excellent companies! They both had plants in other areas of the country that I wouldnt have minded one day transferring to and treated me well. I had no idea that they recently attempted a merger, but were shot down by locals in Baltimore over fear of price hikes. Either way it was nice to see the professionalism on all sides and I dont think I could have gone wrong wither way.

In the end the final straw was the relocation package. Good gracious it was a world of difference. FPL's was great and even upped the ante, but Constellation in that regard was not going to be beaten. I wont share specifics publicly, but it was a healthy boost to my ego when I have told friends, family, and co-workers. I get to say I am going to work in a Nuclear Power Plant performing chemistry and here is what they are giving me to just start!!! My mother never finished second grade in Durango, Mexico and crossed the border at 14 to work for pennies doing who knows what. She can barely read spanish let alone english let alone write either. And here I am getting excited over.....well everything.

Guys and gals, they pay OVERTIME!!! What a concept. You work more than eight hours and you get paid for it plus a half. Of course I will stay late and get that done sir/mam!

Well before I get too excited I want to say thanks to everyone who chatted with me or gave me a call. The advice really helped and I am fortunate to have found this site.

Rennhack or other moderators where do I pay for a gold member status? I figure it is the least I can do.

God bless and good night folks.

David Brink

Nuclear NASCAR · « **Reply #152 on:** Mar 07, 2007, 10:48 »

David,

Congratulations on the new job and enjoy it! At the bottom of Mike's profile is a link that will put you on the road to being a Gold Member. Thanks for thinking of the site, we're honored.

Tom

http://www.nukeworker.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=2116

ramdog_1 · « **Reply #153 on:** Jul 01, 2007, 02:09 »

In this link it talks about you navey guys. humm.
it is funny how the thing is topic 108!

http://www.opednews.com/articles/opedne_russell__070629_nuclear_power_kills_3b.htm

Already Gone · « **Reply #154 on:** Jul 04, 2007, 03:30 »

Wow! What a genius. I would have died believing all the lies if he hadn't come along to correct all my misconceptions.
And to think, all these years, I've been collecting a pension and lifetime healthcare from the Navy!
The most embarassing part is that I have been making a fool of myself by referring to that thing in the center of an atom as a "nucleus" instead of by it's correct name - "core". I feel so stupid now. Gotta go repent.

HydroDave63 · « **Reply #155 on:** Jul 04, 2007, 04:10 »

Quote from: ramdog_1 on Jul 01, 2007, 02:09

In this link it talks about you navey guys. humm.
it is funny how the thing is topic 108!

http://www.opednews.com/articles/opedne_russell__070629_nuclear_power_kills_3b.htm

you have to love the objectivity of an op-ed site with the Cheney Impeachment button up top.

The 'expert' author Hoffman also has an interesting piece

http://www.counterpunch.org/hoffman10072005.html

where he describes the IAEA receiving the 2005 Nobel Peace Prize as "...an endorsement of genocide". oooookayyyy......

or who can forget Ace Hoffman's classic tome "AT LEAST KATRINA WASN'T NUCLEAR"

http://www.animatedsoftware.com/environment/no_nukes/2005/Katrina_Was_Not_Nuclear.htm

either way, they are useful in that it challenges one to think "ok, and here is why that assertion is science fiction..."

PWHoppe · « **Reply #156 on:** Jul 05, 2007, 12:40 »

Quote from: HydroDave63 on Jul 04, 2007, 04:10

you have to love the objectivity of an op-ed site with the Cheney Impeachment button up top.

Not to mention that listed as one of the top op-ed pieces is authored by Cindy Sheehan. It's scary knowing there are nut cases like this guy out there and even scarier to think that there are folks that believe him

ramdog_1 · « **Reply #157 on:** Jul 09, 2007, 03:05 »

will i did not vote for Cheeny . do not go hunting with him .

RDTroja · « **Reply #158 on:** Jul 09, 2007, 03:31 »

Quote from: ramdog_1 on Jul 09, 2007, 03:05

will i did not vote for Cheeny . do not go hunting with him .

Who was it that said 'I would rather go hunting with Dick Cheney than on a drive with Ted Kennedy?'

alphadude · « **Reply #159 on:** Jul 09, 2007, 05:31 »

save the politics for the bathroom wall.. we all know what a bunch of F*** ups the present adminstration is and its all clintons fault for not being able to run for president again. actually its kennedys fault for being in the wrong place at the wrong time...

Marlin · « **Reply #160 on:** Jul 09, 2007, 05:34 »

We are on thin ice for staying on topic and controversial subjects, but I am sure that we can self regulate.

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