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Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Charlotte, NC, 28209
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Description
You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:
- Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
- Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power plant systems
- Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems
- Technical specifications and procurement documents for plant equipment
- Vendor bid evaluations for plant equipment
- Studies and options evaluations for modifications to operating nuclear power plants
In addition, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop engineering cost estimates for small to mid-sized client-requested work scopes
- Visit client office and/or plant site locations to interface with the client and make presentations related to engineering tasks and status
- Lead engineering project teams
This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
- BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
- 10 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry
- Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
- PE license is beneficial, but not required
Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance- Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
- Life & Accident Insurance
- Disability Coverage
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Back-Up Daycare
- FSA & HSA
- 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
- Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Paid Bereavement Leave
- Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range
$116,620.00 - $179,890.00Transparency Statement
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 our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our 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 with the Department of State, 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. Shape the future of global energy with us!
Awards & Recognition
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.
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Frequently asked questions
Lead Mechanical Engineers in the nuclear field focus heavily on compliance with strict safety standards and codes specific to nuclear power plants. Unlike other industries, they handle complex systems involving high-risk environments, requiring deep expertise in nuclear regulations and specialized mechanical design tailored to reactor operations.
In Charlotte, NC, Mechanical Engineer 1 candidates must master nuclear plant system design, code adherence, and vendor evaluation skills. Proficiency in ABET-accredited mechanical engineering principles and understanding local regulatory nuances enhances success in this technically demanding region.
Sargent & Lundy fosters career progression by involving Lead Mechanical Engineers in advanced reactor projects and cross-disciplinary teams. Engineers can lead high-impact initiatives, gaining exposure to cutting-edge nuclear technologies and international projects, which supports long-term professional development.
At Sargent & Lundy, this role integrates leadership in engineering design with direct client engagement and hybrid work flexibility. The company’s commitment to carbon-free energy innovation and award-winning employee benefits creates a distinctive workplace culture for nuclear engineers.
Charlotte's nuclear engineering market is moderately competitive due to ongoing modernization projects and coal-to-nuclear conversions. Candidates with deep nuclear expertise and PE licensure have an advantage, given the regional emphasis on advanced reactor technologies and plant life extensions.
Candidates should plan for a hybrid schedule requiring three days per week onsite at either Charlotte offices or client plants. Considering Charlotte’s traffic patterns, proximity to the plant or office can significantly impact daily commute times and work-life balance.
The salary for this position ranges from $116,620 to $179,890, aligning competitively with national averages for senior nuclear mechanical engineers. Charlotte’s cost of living and demand for specialized nuclear expertise influence this range, offering attractive remuneration within the energy sector.
While a PE license is advantageous, mastery of nuclear-specific codes and ABET-accredited mechanical engineering credentials are critical. Certifications related to nuclear safety standards and project management can enhance credibility and leadership effectiveness within the company.
Engineers lead projects involving reactor restarts, small modular reactors, and coal-to-nuclear plant conversions. These initiatives require in-depth mechanical system design, vendor evaluation, and client coordination to support safe, innovative clean energy solutions globally.
Yes, the company emphasizes flexible work arrangements and comprehensive wellness benefits, including paid leave and healthcare plans. Their award-winning compensation and supportive environment aim to maintain balance, especially important for demanding Lead Mechanical Engineer positions.