What does a nuclear engineer contractor do?
There are many different nuclear engineer roles to choose from – you have health and safety specialists, quality engineers, hydraulic engineers and project managers for example.
Day-to-day duties could include:
- Monitoring and measuring radiation levels
- Planning safe methods of nuclear waste disposal
- Ensuring that a plant structure meets the necessary legal requirements
- Carrying out maintenance work
Your working environment will all depend on the area you choose to specialise in; many nuclear engineers are based in offices, laboratories or control rooms; however, you could find yourself working in power plants too.
What qualifications do I need to become a nuclear engineer contractor?
You can become a nuclear engineer either by completing a university course or via an apprenticeship.
With regard to the type of university degree you’ll need to study, subjects such as maths, physics, or nuclear/chemical/electrical/mechanical engineering are the best courses to take.
With the apprenticeship route, you’ll need to find a business that offers a nuclear scientist and nuclear engineer Level 6 Degree apprenticeship or a nuclear reactor desk engineer Level 6 Degree apprenticeship.
Benefits of becoming a nuclear engineer contractor
There are many reasons why people decide to join the self-employed sector.
Contractors are able to experience so much more freedom and flexibility than their permanent counterparts as they are able to choose the days and hours they want to work, making it ideal for having a better work/life balance.
There’s also the fact that a contractor can typically charge much higher rates compared to those who are employed, and they are able to take advantage of contractor expenses, as discussed below.
For more information on what you can gain from self-employment, read our Benefits of Contracting page.
What expenses can I claim as a nuclear engineer contractor?
A contractor will need to pay out for various costs that are essential for carrying out their work – the good news about this, is that you’ll be able to claim back on these expenses and therefore reduce your tax bill at the end of each year.
As an example, a nuclear engineer may need to wear safety clothing and if this is something you need to provide yourself this will be an allowable expense.
Other typical expenses include:
- Travel costs
- Office costs
- Training courses
- Accountancy fees
Read our Sole Trader Expenses and What Travel Expenses Can I Claim as a Contractor page for more help and advice.
Our team of experts are available to answer any queries you may have, so drop us a line on 01442 795 100, email sophie.lewis@dolanaccountancy.com, or contact us via live chat.
Trusted by over 1,000 contractors |