Jobs · Engineering · Tennessee

Mechanical Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear (January 2027)

Sargent & Lundy · Chattanooga, TN · 6 days ago
Engineering$63k–$91k/yrFull-time

Target start date: early 2027.

About the role

This position offers the ability to directly apply knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering. You will prepare calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews, and conduct equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to project needs. While supporting project teams with other Mechanical Engineers, you will be involved in system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems. There is potential for travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews
  • Conduct equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to project needs
  • Support project teams with system engineering, including design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems
  • Travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews
  • Travel to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs

Qualifications

Sargent & Lundy does not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, General Engineering, or Systems Engineering with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, power engineering, turbomachinery, thermal systems, and energy conversion
  • Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, fabrication drawings, and models
  • Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred qualifications

  • BS or MS degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
  • Related engineering internship or co-op work experience
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training
  • Experience in writing and providing support documentation for Mechanical Engineering calculations
  • Coursework in: Power engineering, Turbomachinery, Thermal systems, Energy conversion

Technology & Innovation

Sargent & Lundy values the appropriate use of technology to improve how work gets done and deliver high-quality outcomes for clients. Depending on the role, employees may use data, automation, artificial intelligence, and other digital tools to support research, analysis, engineering and design activities, workflow improvement, or other aspects of their work. The company values candidates who demonstrate an interest in learning and effectively using emerging technologies where relevant to their role. Employees remain accountable for their work and are expected to apply appropriate professional judgment and review when using technology-assisted tools. Experience with AI, automation, programming, or similar technologies is valued where relevant but is not required unless specifically identified elsewhere in the job description.

Benefits

Health & Wellness

  • Medical, Dental, Vision health 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

Compensation

Compensation range: $62,998 – $90,586. Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting the company's commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in a yearly discretionary bonus.

About the 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, the company has 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. Work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, the group provides cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions.

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