Nuclear Engineer Salary in Oregon
The median nuclear engineer salary in Oregon is $132,418 per year, which is 10.0% above the national median of $120,380.
Nuclear Engineer Salary Overview in Oregon (2026)
Oregon ranks #10 out of 50 states for nuclear engineer compensation. This places Oregon in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for nuclear engineers seeking high pay. At $132,418 per year, nuclear engineers in Oregon earn $12,038 more than the national median of $120,380.
It's worth noting that Oregon's cost of living is 110% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $132,418 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $120,380.
The salary spread in Oregon is significant: nuclear engineers at the 10th percentile earn $83,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $195,800 — a $112,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Oregon for this role is Portland, where the median reaches $142,048.
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for nuclear engineers across the country.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Oregon by Experience
In Oregon, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $85,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $189,200 per year. The cost of living index in Oregon is 110% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Oregon
| Percentile | OR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $83,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,600 |
| Median (50th) | $132,418 |
| 75th Percentile | $162,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $195,800 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by City in Oregon
The largest employment areas for nuclear engineers in Oregon include Portland, Salem, Eugene, and Gresham. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Oregon
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Oregon has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Oregon
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Oregon's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Nuclear Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $56,782 over your career trajectory.
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