Nuclear Engineer Salary in Washington
The median nuclear engineer salary in Washington is $138,437 per year, which is 15.0% above the national median of $120,380.
Nuclear Engineer Salary Overview in Washington (2026)
Washington ranks #7 out of 50 states for nuclear engineer compensation. This places Washington in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for nuclear engineers seeking high pay. At $138,437 per year, nuclear engineers in Washington earn $18,057 more than the national median of $120,380.
It's worth noting that Washington's cost of living is 115% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $138,437 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $120,380.
The salary spread in Washington is significant: nuclear engineers at the 10th percentile earn $87,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $204,700 — a $117,300 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Washington for this role is Bellevue, where the median reaches $182,978.
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 Washington by Experience
In Washington, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $89,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $197,800 per year. The cost of living index in Washington is 115% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Washington
| Percentile | WA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $87,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $110,400 |
| Median (50th) | $138,437 |
| 75th Percentile | $170,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $204,700 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary by City in Washington
The largest employment areas for nuclear engineers in Washington include Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Washington
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Washington has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Washington
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Washington's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Nuclear Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $59,363 over your career trajectory.
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