Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Elkridge, MD, 21075
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 13 January 2026
Description
Our electric power generation clients are updating and replacing the power plant control systems with new digital control systems. This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group.
You will work on major process controls engineering projects for upgrades and modifications to nuclear power plants in the following areas:
- Digital Systems -- PLC, DCS, Touchscreen displays, network switches and control systems
- Functional Requirement and Procurement Specifications for instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants
- Process instrumentation replacement evaluation reports and nuclear modification packages
- Mechatronics, Control Systems for pumps, valves, heat exchangers, steam turbines and reactors to improve the functionality of the client’s plant
- Attend client meetings and perform site walkdowns to ensure the client is satisfied with our work product
- Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced nuclear instrumentation and controls design engineers
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- A BS or MS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with coursework in instrumentation, mechatronics and process controls design engineering is required
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in design engineering for process control systems; Experience in design engineering for nuclear power plant control system is preferred
- Experience with controls system design including applications for low and medium voltage distribution systems and controls for equipment including but not limited to turbines, pumps, feedwater control, and data displays.
- Experience with power plant instrumentation and controls systems design for either BWR of PWR reactors, including DCS for turbine, control, feedwater control, and data display.
- Technically knowledgeable of available equipment and proven pre-engineered systems to execute systems design
- Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others.
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
$82,380.00 - $125,860.00Transparency 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
Mastery of PLCs, DCS, and digital control systems tailored for nuclear environments is critical. Familiarity with process instrumentation replacement and control of equipment like turbines and valves enhances performance. Understanding nuclear-specific safety protocols ensures design reliability and compliance.
Advancement often involves taking on leadership roles in complex control system modernization projects, mentoring junior engineers, and contributing to nuclear regulatory compliance. Expertise in digital control system upgrades can open pathways to project management or specialized nuclear engineering consultancy.
Seniors lead design reviews, develop functional specifications, and oversee integration of digital control systems. They coordinate site evaluations and client consultations, ensuring technical accuracy and adherence to nuclear standards while mentoring junior staff, which distinguishes their role significantly.
Elkridge benefits from proximity to nuclear power facilities and research centers, creating steady demand for skilled controls engineers. Local initiatives toward plant digital modernization and clean energy solutions heighten competition but also foster advanced project opportunities.
While no state-specific licenses are mandatory, certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) in Electrical or Mechanical disciplines and Nuclear Quality Assurance training enhance employability. Familiarity with NRC regulations and local compliance standards is highly valued by Maryland employers.
Sargent & Lundy emphasizes cutting-edge digital modernization in nuclear plants, demanding engineers adapt to evolving technologies and stringent safety protocols. The firm’s global projects and commitment to sustainability add complexity, requiring engineers to balance innovation with compliance rigor.
Senior engineers are encouraged to guide less experienced colleagues through hands-on project involvement and knowledge sharing. The firm supports growth via merit scholarships and licensure bonuses, fostering an environment where seasoned professionals actively contribute to team skill advancement.
Positions in this field at Sargent & Lundy typically offer between $82,380 and $125,860 annually. This band reflects the specialized nuclear engineering expertise required, regional cost of living, and the comprehensive benefits package enhancing total compensation.
Nuclear process control engineering in Maryland involves working on vital carbon-free energy systems with cutting-edge digital technologies. The sector’s stability, combined with impactful environmental goals and specialized skill demand, offers a unique blend of technical challenge and societal contribution.
Nuclear roles require strict adherence to safety and regulatory standards, with added complexity in managing reactor-specific controls like feedwater and turbine systems. Engineers also engage more deeply with digital modernization and nuclear-specific instrumentation compared to conventional power roles.