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Instrumentation and Controls Engineer

Nuclear Engineers
Description
Design, implement, and maintain nuclear plant instrumentation and control (I&C) systems; apply nuclear science and control theory, and conduct R&D, to ensure safe monitoring, automation, protection, and regulatory-compliant operation.
  • • Analyze I&C-related events and near-misses to inform protective logic and design improvements.
  • • Monitor I&C system performance to spot noncompliances or conditions that jeopardize safe operations.
  • • Stay current on nuclear I&C standards, digital controls, and cybersecurity requirements.
  • • Develop and execute tests to validate sensors, control algorithms, and safety-system setpoints.
  • • Design and oversee installation, commissioning, and operation of plant I&C architectures and safety systems.
  • • Develop instrumentation, control logic, PLC/DCS configurations, HMIs, and signal conditioning.
  • • Initiate corrective actions or recommend plant trips based on I&C indications during emergencies.
  • • Recommend preventive maintenance, calibration, and design safeguards using I&C monitoring and test data.
  • • Write I&C operating procedures, setpoint and alarm response guidelines, and calibration instructions.
  • • Conduct loop checks, factory and site acceptance tests (FAT/SAT), and tuning to optimize control loop and plant performance.
  • • Direct I&C maintenance and modifications to assure availability, reliability, and safety compliance.
  • • Design and support environmental and radiological monitoring I&C and ensure data integrity and reporting.
  • • Develop control strategies and automation that reduce waste and improve process efficiency.
  • • Engineer I&C for remediation systems, including monitoring, interlocks, and remote operations.
  • • Oversee I&C compliance activities, including surveillance testing, software QA, and configuration control.
  • • Prepare technical reports and regulator presentations on I&C design bases, setpoints, V&V, and cybersecurity.
  • • Document findings and recommendations from I&C test data and performance analyses.
  • • Lead R&D on advanced sensors, digital upgrades, diagnostics, and model-based controls.
  • • Collaborate with reactor, electrical, and safety engineers to define requirements, interlocks, and models.
  • • Coordinate with vendors, EPCs, and review boards on I&C scope, specifications, and change approvals.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
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