Radioactive Waste Shipping Specialist

Also called: Radwaste Technician, Radioactive Materials Shipper

Packages, labels and ships radioactive waste from power plants and hospitals following strict federal rules.

A day in the life

You survey a container of used filters with a radiation meter, calculate how much radioactivity is inside, and pick the right certified cask. You fill out the shipping papers and inspect the truck before it leaves for a disposal site. One wrong number can mean a big fine.

Pay over a career

Starting
$55k
Typical
$82k
High
$110k

Estimated from BLS nuclear technicians.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Associate's degree (2-year), about 2 years after high school. Associate's in nuclear or radiation technology, or Navy nuclear experience.

Ways in: 2-year college, Military, Certification. Training cost: Under $15k.

Majors to look at: Nuclear Technology (2-year), Radiation Protection Technology.

Outlook

Growing about average. Steady, with more work as old plants are decommissioned.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI can check paperwork and labels against DOT rules; packaging and signing off on shipments stays human.

Start now, in high school

Classes: Chemistry, Algebra, Business CTE class.

Official data: O*NET occupation 19-4051.

More Nuclear Power careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.