I recently completed qualification as a resident inspector, but haven't been assigned a plant yet. During my quals, I spent a lot of time at different plants and discovered that I think I would like being a reactor operator more than doing oversight. During the recent furlough, I applied for a RO position and did an initial interview. I believe that I will be offered the job after passing the pre-employment tests. However, I'm not sure that leaving the NRC would be the best move. It seems that most people go from RO or SRO to resident inspector, not the other way around. I really prefer hands-on to the oversight role, but maybe it's stupid to give up 40-hr weeks and federal benefits. Any advice would be appreciated.
I have experience with this.
mjb687@gmail.com