Nuclear energy professionals work with nuclear technology to produce energy on a large-scale. Recruitment agencies play a key role in the sector, placing candidates into jobs in power generation, research, engineering, safety, decommissioning, and waste management.
It's possible to enter employment in nuclear energy by securing a place on an apprenticeship scheme straight from school. Candidates will usually require GCSEs. Apprentices receive training from experienced staff and through college courses that lead to NVQs, BTECs or City & Guilds qualifications.
The nuclear energy industry is growing and employment prospects for staff are very good. In the UK, major nuclear fuel sites can be found in various locations, including Cheshire, Lancashire and Cumbria. Details of employment openings tend to appear through recruitment agencies, who will help employers make permanent or contract hires.
Nuclear energy workers usually work 37 hours a week, often on a shift system that covers all seven days of the week. Those employed in nuclear power stations tend to spend all their time indoors. However, time may also be spent in laboratories, offices and workshops.