Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 (Nuclear Plant Analysis) - Nuclear

This position supports our electric power generation clients in increasing the power output of existing power plants to meet rising electric demands, expanding work within the Mechanical Analysis Engineering Group.

About the role

You will work on major systems, equipment, and plant processes, focusing on licensing basis evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects. This role allows you to apply your expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering while performing consulting-level work for nuclear power uprates.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead licensing basis system and component evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects.
• Prepare and review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations.
• Perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs for proposed power uprates.
• Prepare task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information clearly and concisely.
• Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
• Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
• Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks.
• Perform independent reviews of work performed by others, including calculations and drawing preparation.
• Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.
• Lead others in using modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
• Oversee engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs.

Requirements

• BSME from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with a strong academic background in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
• 10 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry.
• Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
• Practical knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
  • Balance of plant system and component evaluations
  • Pinch point assessments and/or task reports
  • Heat balance
  • Power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink
  • Circulating Water and Ultimate Heat Sinks
• Experience preparing calculations and/or reports, with excellent technical report writing skills.
• Knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment for project design.
• Strong interest in numerical computations and problem-solving.
• Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations applicable to mechanical engineering design in nuclear power plants.
• Proficiency with MS Office applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Valued but not required

• MSME from an ABET-accredited program.
• PE License.
• Minor, certificate, or experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields.
• Experience overseeing automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness:
  • Medical, dental, and vision plans
  • Life & accident insurance
  • Disability coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
• Financial Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
• Work-Life Balance:
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Pay

Compensation range: $118,023 - $180,313. Eligible positions include a base salary and a comprehensive benefits package. Individuals may also participate in a yearly discretionary bonus.

About this business unit

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we’ve been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions.