National- Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate

Nuclear Submarine Officer – Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC)

Take command of one of the most powerful vessels on earth. As a Submarine Officer in the U.S. Navy's Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) Program, you’ll lead a team of highly skilled technicians aboard a nuclear-powered submarine, managing state-of-the-art systems and critical missions. This elite opportunity combines leadership, engineering, and national security into one of the most demanding—and rewarding—careers in the military.

Whether you're still completing your STEM degree or already graduated, NUPOC offers a generous financial package, elite training, and guaranteed placement into the Navy’s prestigious nuclear propulsion community.

Key Responsibilities:

As a Submarine Officer, you will:

• Lead operations of a nuclear reactor plant, propulsion systems, and power generation
• Navigate the submarine during undersea missions and strategic operations
• Oversee life support, weapons systems, sonar, radar, and communications
• Serve as a department head, managing personnel, safety, and mission success
• Operate in high-stakes environments, making real-time decisions that impact national security

Program Benefits (NUPOC):

For Undergraduate Students:

• $5,500–$7,500 monthly salary while still in school (up to 42 months)
• $30,000 sign-on bonus upon selection, with an additional $2,000 bonus after nuclear training
• No military duties while in college—focus entirely on academics
• Full healthcare and retirement benefits accrue while in school
• Your time in NUPOC counts toward retirement

For College Graduates:

• Immediate pay and benefits upon selection
• Same $32,000 bonus package
• Free housing and full military health care while awaiting training

Education & Eligibility Requirements:

• U.S. citizenship required
• Bachelor’s degree or current enrollment in a regionally accredited U.S. college
• Must have completed or be enrolled in:
• Calculus I & II (grade of C or better)
• Calculus-based Physics I & II (grade of C or better)
• Age: 19 to 29 at commissioning (waivers up to age 31 possible)
• Physically qualified for nuclear duty as determined by Navy medical standards

Career Growth & Training:

After selection, you’ll complete:

• Officer Candidate School (OCS) – Newport, RI
• Nuclear Power School – Charleston, SC
• Prototype Reactor Training – Hands-on training with operational naval reactors (Charleston, SC or Ballston Spa, NY)

Post-training, you'll report to your assigned nuclear-powered submarine, where you will serve in key leadership roles.

Opportunities for graduate education include:

• Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)
• Navy War College (NWC)
• Tuition Assistance during shore tours
• Joint Professional Military Education (JPME)

**To be considered, applicants must complete the Navy's official Request for Information (RFI) form linked to the job posting.