Nuclear Technicians
I. JOB SUMMARY
Main Topic: Physical Geography
Secondary Topic: Environment and Society
Overview: Nuclear technicians operate special equipment to produce and monitor nuclear energy production and its radiation. Technicians must monitor equipment performance, measure radiation, collect samples, and maintain monitoring equipment. Two types of technicians usually work in nuclear plants: operating technicians and radiation protection technicians. Operating technicians monitor system performance including measuring levels of radiation in water systems. They also ensure safety through taking various measurements. Radiation protection technician focus on radiation and contamination for plant personnel and outside the plant. They take measurements surrounding the plant and alert the plant in possible decontamination and safety procedures. While most nuclear technicians work in plants, some work in laboratories aiding researchers and other scientists. Nuclear technicians also deal with nuclear waste for disposal, recycling, and storage.
Geographers at work: Physical Geographers, Environmental Geographers
Recommended College Courses: Introduction to Physical Geography, Environmental Management, Introduction in Environmental Geography, Natural Resource Use and Management, Energy Resource Management, Environmental Hazards
Skills: geospatial technology, climate and weather forecasting, human resource management, Quantitative Methods, Environmental Mapping and Modeling, Computer Programming, Field Methods
Occupation Group: Life, Physical, and Social Science
Learn more about Nuclear Technicians from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/nuclear-technicians.htm
Written by Alisa Hartsell
II. POWERFUL GEOGRAPHIC KNOWLEDGE
