2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Nuclear engineering in Australia is entering a period of growth, prompting several universities to consider new educational programs. There is a pressing need for guidance on the necessary training to upskill the existing workforce to meet the demands of this emerging sector. This research collects data from Position Descriptions (PDs) at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), to identify core competencies in terms of Knowledge, Skills and Attributes (KSAs). Analysis of the PDs identifies critical knowledge and skill learning outcomes necessary for training competent nuclear engineers. This paper summarizes the core competencies required in various roles at ANSTO. The results show nuclear and non-nuclear knowledge is needed, however the skills needed are non-nuclear specific, apart from nuclear based coding skills, and attributes carry through to all tasks across various roles. This is important in design of a learning program that encompasses both nuclear and non-nuclear knowledge and skills. These insights enhance the effectiveness of training initiatives and ensure their alignment with job requirements. The findings contribute to workforce training plans by providing an understanding of the core competencies and KSAs associated with nuclear engineering roles at ANSTO.