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STEM

IQ Required for Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear Engineer professionals typically score between 114 and 134 on standardized IQ tests, with an average of 124 (Superior).

Average IQ

124

Superior

IQ Range

114–134

Typical range

Median Salary

$124,830

Per year

Growth Outlook

-8%

Declining

Do you match the Nuclear Engineer cognitive profile?

Nuclear Engineer professionals tend to score highest in mathematical ability. See how your own five-domain profile compares — and which careers actually fit it.

See your full cognitive profile

Cognitive Domain Emphasis

Different professions demand different cognitive strengths. Here is how the cognitive demands break down for Nuclear Engineer professionals.

Mathematical Ability40%
Logical Reasoning30%
Pattern Recognition20%
Verbal Comprehension10%

About Nuclear Engineer

Nuclear engineers design and operate systems that harness nuclear energy for power generation and medical applications. The field requires precise mathematical modeling and the analytical rigor to ensure safety in high-stakes environments.

The cognitive profile for this role emphasizes mathematical ability (40% of the cognitive demand) and logical reasoning (30%). With an average IQ of 124, Nuclear Engineer professionals fall in the superior range of cognitive ability, reflecting the intellectual demands of the role. See what this score means with our IQ Percentile Calculator.

Salary Breakdown

Compensation for Nuclear Engineer professionals varies significantly with experience, location, and specialization.

Entry Level (10th %ile)

$72,800

Median Salary

$124,830

Experienced (90th %ile)

$189,000

Wondering if you’d make the cut?

These are the field’s numbers — the more useful question is where you stand relative to them, and why no cutoff exists.

Am I smart enough to be a Nuclear Engineer?

Related Professions

Explore other careers with similar cognitive profiles and IQ requirements.

Chemical Engineer

IQ 123STEM

Range: 113–133

Physicist

IQ 128STEM

Range: 118–138

Mechanical Engineer

IQ 118STEM

Range: 108–128

Aerospace Engineer

IQ 123STEM

Range: 113–133

Nuclear Engineer is one of 147 professions ranked by the reasoning a job actually demands — O*NET ability ratings joined to BLS median wages, sortable by either.

How Our IQ Test Maps to This Career

Our comprehensive IQ assessment measures five cognitive domains, including the ones that most define success in Nuclear Engineer roles: Mathematical Ability (40%), Logical Reasoning (30%), Pattern Recognition (20%), Verbal Comprehension (10%).

By taking our assessment, you will receive domain-specific scores that reveal how your cognitive strengths align with the demands of this profession. Whether you are considering a career as a Nuclear Engineer or looking to understand your aptitude for the field, your results provide actionable insight into your fit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average IQ of a Nuclear Engineer?
The average IQ for Nuclear Engineer professionals is 124, which falls in the "Superior" range. Individual scores typically range from 114 to 134, reflecting the diversity of cognitive profiles within the field.
What cognitive skills are most important for Nuclear Engineer?
Mathematical Ability is the most emphasized cognitive domain for Nuclear Engineer professionals, accounting for 40% of the cognitive profile. This is followed by the other domains in varying proportions that reflect the unique intellectual demands of the role.
How much does a Nuclear Engineer earn?
The median salary for Nuclear Engineer professionals is $124,830 per year. Entry-level positions (10th percentile) earn around $72,800, while experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn up to $189,000.
What is the job outlook for Nuclear Engineer?
The job outlook for Nuclear Engineer is declining with a projected growth rate of -8%. This field is expected to see reduced demand over the coming years.
Do I need a high IQ to become a Nuclear Engineer?
No. While the average IQ for Nuclear Engineer professionals is 124, IQ is only one factor in career success. Motivation, education, relevant skills, and work experience matter significantly. Many successful Nuclear Engineer professionals have IQ scores across the full 114–134 range and beyond. Use these figures as context for cognitive demands, not as a prerequisite.

Career Resources

Where to go next, whether you want the wider picture or your own number.

  • Quick IQ TestFifteen minutes, free, no sign-up to start.
  • Career-IQ MatcherMatch your cognitive profile against real occupations.
  • Career Advice ArticlesUsing cognitive strengths in a real job search.
  • IQ Comparison ToolCompare a score against professions, college majors, countries and famous people.

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