mechanical engineering
Discipline that applies principles of physics, engineering and materials science to design, analyse, manufacture and maintain mechanical systems.
Nuclear reactor operators directly control nuclear reactors in power plants from control panels, and are solely responsible for the alterations in reactor reactivity. They start up operations and react to changes in status such as casualties and critical events. They monitor parameters and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Competences and skills
41 ESCO relationsEssential knowledge 12 competences
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
2 competencesradioactive contamination
The different causes of the presence of radioactive substances in liquids, solids, or gases or on surfaces, and the manner in which to identify the types of contaminants, their risks, and the contaminants' concentration.
Cross-sector
10 competencesautomation technology
Set of technologies that make a process, system, or apparatus operate automatically through the use of control systems.
digital
contamination exposure regulations
The regulations concerning exposure to contaminated materials or a hazardous environment which regulate the actions surrounding risk assessment, minimisation of further exposure, quarantine, and treatment of the exposed persons.
electricity
The principles of electricity and electrical power circuits, as well as the associated risks.
hydraulics
The power transmission systems that use the force of flowing liquids to transmit power.
metrology
The methods and theory of measurement in a scientific context, including internationally accepted units of measurement, practical realisation of these units, and interpretation of measurements.
nuclear energy
The generation of electrical energy through the use of nuclear reactors, by converting the energy released from nuclei of atoms in reactors which generate heat. This heat subsequently generates steam which can power a steam turbine to generate electricity.
pneumatics
The application of pressurised gas to produce mechanical motion.
radiation protection
The measures and procedures used to protect people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation.
green
technical drawings
Drawing software and the various symbols, perspectives, units of measurement, notation systems, visual styles and page layouts used in technical drawings.
digital
thermodynamics
The branch of physics that deals with the relationships between heat and other forms of energy.
Essential skills and competences 12 competences
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
3 competencesensure equipment cooling
Make sure the machines and installations are properly supplied with air and coolants in order to prevent overheating and other malfunctions.
follow nuclear plant safety precautions
Comply with nuclear power plant safety procedures, policies and legislation to ensure a safe working environment for all employees, and to ensure the safety of the public.
respond to nuclear emergencies
Set in motion the strategies for reacting in the event of equipment malfunctions, errors, or other events which may lead to contamination and other nuclear emergencies, ensuring that the facility is secured, all necessary areas are evacuated, and further damages and risks are contained.
Cross-sector
9 competencesavoid contamination
Avoid the mixing or contamination of materials.
green
ensure compliance with environmental legislation
Monitor activities and perform tasks ensuring compliance with standards involving environmental protection and sustainability, and amend activities in the case of changes in environmental legislation. Ensure that the processes are compliant with environment regulations and best practices.
green
ensure compliance with radiation protection regulations
Make sure the company and the employees implement the legal and operational measures established to guarantee protection against radiation.
monitor automated machines
Continuously check up on the automated machine's set-up and execution or make regular control rounds. If necessary, record and interpret data on the operating conditions of installations and equipment in order to identify abnormalities.
digital
monitor nuclear power plant systems
Control nuclear plant systems, such as ventilation and water draining systems, to ensure proper functioning and identify irregularities.
monitor radiation levels
Use measuring and testing equipment and techniques to identify the levels of radiation or radioactive substances in order to control exposure and minimise health, safety, and environmental risks.
green
operate computerised control systems
Operate electronic or computerised control panels to monitor and optimise processes, and to control process start-up and shut-downs.
digital
resolve equipment malfunctions
Identify, report and repair equipment damage and malfunctions. Communicate with field representatives and manufacturers to obtain repair and replacement components.
use remote control equipment
Use a remote control to operate equipment. Watch the equipment closely while operating, and use any sensors or cameras to guide your actions.
digital
Optional knowledge 3 competences
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Cross-sector
3 competenceselectric generators
The principles and operations of devices that can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, such as dynamos and alternators, rotors, stators, armatures, and fields.
electrical power safety regulations
The compliance with safety measures which need to be taken during the installation, operation, and maintenance of constructions and equipment which function in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power, such as the appropriate safety gear, equipment handling procedures, and preventive actions.
nuclear reprocessing
The process in which radioactive substances can be extracted or recycled for use as nuclear fuel, and in which waste levels can be reduced, yet without the reduction of radioactivity levels or generation of heat.
Optional skills and competences 14 competences
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
5 competencesadapt energy distribution schedules
Monitor the procedures involved in the distribution of energy in order to assess whether energy supply must be increased or decreased depending on changes in demand, and incorporate these changes into the distribution schedule. Ensure that the changes are complied with.
green
coordinate electricity generation
Communicate the current demand of electricity generation to electricity generation workers and facilities in order to ensure that the generation of electrical power can be increased or decreased accordingly.
green
design strategies for nuclear emergencies
Develop and oversee the implementation of strategies which aim to prevent equipment malfunctions, errors, and contamination risks in nuclear facilities, and which outline response actions in the event of a nuclear emergency.
monitor electric generators
Monitor the operation of electric generators in power stations in order to ensure functionality and safety, and to identify need for repairs and maintenance.
respond to electrical power contingencies
Set in motion the strategies created for responding to emergency situations, as well as respond to unforeseen problems, in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power, such as power outages, in order to rapidly solve the problem and return to normal operations.
Cross-sector
9 competencescalculate exposure to radiation
Calculate radiation data about procedures, such as length and intensity of exposure.
ensure compliance with electricity distribution schedule
Monitor the operations of an electrical energy distribution facility and electricity distribution systems in order to ensure that the distribution goals are met, and the electricity supply demands are met.
instruct employees on radiation protection
Explain the various legal and operational measures established in the company against radiation, such as reducing exposure time and wearing protective gear, to the employees and communicate the emergency procedures.
liaise with engineers
Collaborate with engineers to ensure common understanding and discuss product design, development and improvement.
manage emergency evacuation plans
Monitor quick and safe emergency evacuation plans.
monitor disposal of radioactive substances
Ensure correct management and disposal of radioactive substances used for medical purposes, in compliance with established procedures.
green
perform risk analysis
Identify and assess factors that may jeopardise the success of a project or threaten the organisation's functioning. Implement procedures to avoid or minimise their impact.
test safety strategies
Test policies and strategies related to risk and safety management and procedures, such as testing evacuation plans, safety equipment, and carrying out drills.
wear appropriate protective gear
Wear relevant and necessary protective gear, such as protective goggles or other eye protection, hard hats, safety gloves.