Nuclear Student Generating Plant Operator

External - Posting Description

Nuclear Student Generating Plant Operator - 518655

This is a paid training program leading to the position of Assistant Unit Operator (AUO) at a Nuclear Power Plant.

Organization: Nuclear Power Group

Department: Nuclear Operations

Location: Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in Decatur, Alabama

Relocation: Relocation benefits are not offered. Local candidates may be preferred.

Posting Open: 07/26/2026

Posting Close: 08/01/2026 at 11:59 pm EST

Starting Salary: $90,730

Pay will increase incrementally as trainees progress through the training program. Upon successful completion of the training program, Nuclear Assistant Unit Operator salary is currently $120,970.

Transcripts

To validate your qualifications for this position, you are required to submit your transcripts by the posting close date, following these steps:

Planning & Preparation

• Monitor your email daily and respond promptly. You will receive emails throughout the process that require action on your part. If you miss an email, you may miss this opportunity.
• The hiring process for TVA training programs involves several steps. Below is the target timeline for filling this position (subject to change based on business needs):
  • EEI Testing – August 2026
  • Interviews – September 2026
• Offers – October 2026
  Candidates who receive an offer will be expected to respond within 3 days
• Target Start Date – January 2027

EEI Test Preparation Resources

• https://secure.eei.org/eeitests/onlineproducts/
  • username: TVA
  • password: recruit
• https://getintoenergy.org/education/

Description:

This is a 12 to 18-month training program leading to the position of Assistant Unit Operator (AUO) at a Nuclear Power Plant. The training consists of a combination of on-the-job training, classroom instruction and self-study. Assistant Unit Operators operate power station machinery, monitor in-plant parameters, and assist in testing of plant equipment.

• 330 hours will be served in electrical operations from selected activities for training purposes.
• 330 hours will be served in mechanical operations from selected activities for training purposes.
• 240 hours of classroom instruction will be given by an instructor. This instruction will include both electrical and mechanical phases and will be given at the rate of at least 5 days per month.

Requirements:

• Must receive a qualifying score on the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) pre-entrance exam.
• Will be required to progress satisfactorily on periodic examinations throughout the program.
• Must meet all qualification requirements established in the training plan.

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must have at least a 2-year technical degree from a regionally accredited educational institution OR:

• College math (6 semester or 9 quarter credit hours) at least algebra level or two years of high school mathematics with one year at least algebra level, AND either chemistry or physics at the high school, college, or university level, AND one of the following equivalencies:
  
• At least 43 semester credit hours (65 quarter credit hours) of coursework from a regionally accredited college; OR
• Two or more years' work experience and training in the field of power generation or ship propulsion while a member of the armed forces; OR
• Two or more years' work experience and training in power plant operations/generation while a member of a utility or industrial environment; OR
• Completion of at least a 4-year union apprenticeship.

Equal Employment Opportunity

TVA is an Equal Opportunity employer and complies with all applicable laws and regulations regarding equal employment opportunities. Any applicant or employee who believes s/he has a discrimination claim (including harassment or retaliation) must contact TVA’s Equal Opportunity Compliance office within 45 calendar days of the event or action s/he believes to constitute discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.

Drug-Free Workplace
All TVA Non-Nuclear employees are covered by TVA's Federal Drug-Free Workplace Program Plan, in accordance with Executive Order 12564, Public Law 100-71 and the Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Workplace Drug Testing. Information regarding the Drug Free Workplace Program can be found at www.samhsa.gov/workplace. TVA Non-Nuclear employees in Testing Designated Positions, including those performing safety-sensitive duties are also subject to random drug testing. TVA Nuclear employees are subject to random alcohol and drug tests in accordance with 10 CFR Part 26 as mandated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

How to Claim Vet Preference

If you are requesting to be considered as a preference-eligible veteran as outlined in the application process, you must submit your military documents before the posting close date indicated above. Be sure to include all supporting documentation: Form DD214 (member 2 or member 4 copy), a Veterans Disability Rating Letter from the VA (if applicable), and a completed form TVA 3595. If you will not get your DD214 until you are separated or retired, you can request a Statement of Service through your military personnel office. The Statement of Service must list your dates of military service, character of service, expected date of separation and any service-connected disability rating that you have been awarded from your branch of military service. Please submit your military documents each time you apply for a position.

How to Submit Documentation:

More information about preference eligibility and a link to form TVA 3595, can be found at https://www.tva.gov/Careers/Claiming-Veteran-Preference. If you have a question about preference eligibility, please email Careers@tva.gov.