Nuclear Engineer Salary in Alabama
Based on 290+ workers in Alabama
Median Annual Salary (AL)
$132,570
$63.74/hr
vs National Average
$140,937
-5.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$98K – $161K
290 employed in Alabama
Nuclear Engineer salary in Alabama averages $144,410 per year, positioning the state favorably in the national landscape. This median figure represents approximately 8% above the national average, reflecting Alabama's significance in the nuclear energy sector. With 270 nuclear engineers currently employed throughout the state, the field remains stable and competitive for qualified professionals seeking positions in this specialized industry.
Compensation for nuclear engineer positions in Alabama varies considerably, ranging from $98,950 to $176,150 annually depending on individual circumstances. Experience level, educational credentials, specific employer, and facility location all significantly influence earning potential within the state. Engineers working at major nuclear installations or research facilities typically command higher salaries, while those earlier in their careers or in supporting roles may earn toward the lower end of this spectrum.
Salary Distribution — Nuclear Engineer in Alabama
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $97,950 |
| 25th percentile | $125,870 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $132,570 |
| 75th percentile | $154,920 |
| 90th percentile | $161,290 |
Top-Paying Industries for Nuclear Engineer (U.S.)
Which industries pay Nuclear Engineers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Nuclear Engineers in Alabama tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $143,600 | 6K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $137,920 | 950 |
| Utilities | $134,250 | 4K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $131,690 | 340 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $119,520 | 3K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Nuclear Engineer in Alabama vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Alabama) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $130,850 |
| 2023 | $129,460 |
| 2024 | $144,410 |
| 2025 | $132,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $132,570 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Alabama Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $130,850 | $125,973 |
| 2023 | $129,460 | $126,302 |
| 2024 | $144,410 | $134,043 |
| 2025 | $132,570 | $140,937 |
| 2026 (projected) | $132,570 | $140,937 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by Experience Level in Alabama
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $125,870 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $132,570 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $154,920 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $161,290 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Other States
Related Nuclear Engineer Salaries in Alabama
How other high-demand occupations in Alabama compare to Nuclear Engineer ($132,570 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nuclear Engineer | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering Manager in AL | $162,350 | +22.5% | $78.05/hr |
| Chemical Engineer in AL | $135,030 | +1.9% | $64.92/hr |
| Aerospace Engineer in AL | $127,540 | -3.8% | $61.32/hr |
| Electrical Engineer in AL | $125,630 | -5.2% | $60.40/hr |
| Materials Engineer in AL | $107,580 | -18.9% | $51.72/hr |
| Environmental Engineer in AL | $102,650 | -22.6% | $49.35/hr |
| Mechanical Engineer in AL | $100,230 | -24.4% | $48.19/hr |
| Industrial Engineer in AL | $99,880 | -24.7% | $48.02/hr |
| Civil Engineer in AL | $99,010 | -25.3% | $47.60/hr |
| Biomedical Engineer in AL | $85,720 | -35.3% | $41.21/hr |
| Lawyer in AL | $131,970 | -0.5% | $63.45/hr |
| Computer Network Architect in AL | $130,810 | -1.3% | $62.89/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do nuclear engineers make in Alabama?
- Nuclear engineers in Alabama earn a median salary of $144,410 per year, or approximately $69 per hour. This is 7.7% higher than the national average for this position.
What is the salary range for nuclear engineers in Alabama?
- Nuclear engineer salaries in Alabama range from $98,950 at the low end to $176,150 at the high end, depending on experience and qualifications.
How many nuclear engineers are employed in Alabama?
- There are approximately 270 nuclear engineers currently employed in Alabama, making it a relatively specialized field within the state.
Is Alabama a good state for nuclear engineer salaries?
- Yes, Alabama offers competitive nuclear engineer salaries at $144,410 median, which exceeds the national average by 7.7%, making it an above-average market for this profession.