Training

When you join OPG as a Nuclear Operator in Training, it is the first step in your career as a Nuclear Operator. Your training will begin immediately upon hiring. After completing some general training, you will be able to start on-the-job training in one of OPG's Nuclear generation facilities, where you will complete the remainder of the Nuclear Operator training. This is a highly skilled and detail-oriented position, requiring you to retain a lot of information. Initial training can take up to two years to complete, and is extremely intensive. Testing will occur throughout your training process to ensure you have mastered the skills and information required to perform your job efficiently and expertly.

Position Overview

Nuclear Operators work 8-, 10- or 12-hour shifts and must be prepared to be on duty any hour of the day and any day of the week.

The Nuclear Operator will carry out operating and monitoring activities on assigned systems and equipment to ensure their safe and reliable operation. A significant portion of a Nuclear Operator's duties is to perform 'rounds' of a designated area within the plant to check the status of equipment and systems (e.g., pumps, fans, motors, gauges). Effective monitoring requires a high degree of precision and attention to detail. You will be responsible for detecting and reporting issues. Your duties will include tasks such as monitoring system pressure, temperatures and water levels, checking for leaks, and checking the integrity of the equipment. Upon detection of a problem, you will notify the appropriate personnel and document the deficiency according to detailed operating procedures. A portion of a Nuclear Operator's day might also be spent completing routine upkeep of equipment (e.g., cleaning equipment, topping up oil levels), as well as initiating work requests, and record-keeping.

Safety Is A Priority

At OPG, safety is our first priority. Protective equipment and clothing are provided and must be worn as required. Depending on the unit, some of the equipment and clothing can be heavy or feel restrictive (i.e., plastic suits and respirators), but they are designed to ensure your safety by minimizing the risk of exposure to hazardous materials or radiation.

Education Requirements

To be considered for the position, you will need one of the following:

• a Grade 12 Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) that includes Grade 12-U (university preparation) Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry, and English, or Ontario Academic Course (OAC) credits in Mathematics, Physics or Chemistry, and English; and/or
• an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (or equivalent) plus completion of a college Technician or Technologist diploma in a related program.

The most sought-after educational programs include Power, Stationary, and Marine Engineering, and candidates with a post-secondary education in these programs will be given advanced standing in the selection process. Some others considered are Mechanical and Electrical Technician/Technology diplomas.

Note: A former OPG Co-op or Intern student from a related college program will have preference in the hiring process.

Realistic Job Preview

Starting a new job can present unique challenges. OPG would like to help make this transition smooth for you. That is why we feel it is important to provide you with a detailed description of what you can expect to experience as a Nuclear Operator.

Our Realistic Job Preview gives you detailed information on all aspects of the position, including the positive and potentially negative aspects of the job. The goal of the Realistic Job Preview is to achieve a better fit between you and the position and provide you with realistic expectations. The document is quite long and detailed, however, it is a good investment of your time to read it, as it will better prepare you.

Download our Realistic Job Preview PDF 

Future Opportunities

You can really take advantage of training while at OPG. Throughout your career, you will be constantly supported in enhancing your knowledge and skill set. Training, supervisory and management roles are just some of the advancement options open to you. Opportunities to pursue your long-term goals may present themselves anywhere across the province.

Here are just some of the common advancement roles for a Nuclear Operator:

• Supervising Nuclear Operator
• Control Room Shift Supervisor
• Field Shift-Operating Supervisor
• Authorized Nuclear Operator

Note: These are common progression paths within OPG, but there are many other opportunities available.