Mechanical Engineering Intern - Nuclear (Summer 2026)
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Wilmington, DE, 19801
Job Type : Intern
Date Posted : 8 January 2026
Description
This position has a target start date of summer 2026.
- As a Mechanical Engineering Intern, you will be assigned to work on a project team and assist the engineering team members in the execution of their project work. These projects may involve the design of new and/or modifications/upgrades to existing power plant or industrial facility systems and components.
- Working under the direction of senior engineers, this position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your academic background in mechanical engineering in one or more of the following areas:
- Assist in the preparation of engineering calculations, drawings and specifications
- Work on a variety of tasks associated with project reporting, such as tracking and evaluating project activities, project progress, and associated data
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- This position requires active enrollment in a Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering with a strong academic background and coursework in mechanical systems analysis, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and/or heat transfer
- Enrollment in an ABET-accredited engineering program is preferred
- Proficiency with MS Office applications
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Valued but not required skills and experience:
- Prior, related internship or co-op experience
- An understanding of the practical application of mechanical engineering principles
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
$17.50 - $27.00Transparency 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
Understanding thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer is essential for a mechanical engineering intern working in nuclear projects at Sargent & Lundy. These principles underpin system designs for power plants and industrial facilities, ensuring safe and efficient operation within the nuclear energy sector.
Interns support projects focused on advanced reactor technology and nuclear plant modernization, directly aiding carbon-free energy solutions. By assisting with design modifications and engineering calculations, they help innovate sustainable power generation aligned with global clean energy goals.
Daily responsibilities often include drafting engineering drawings, performing calculations, and monitoring project progress. Interns collaborate closely with senior engineers, gaining hands-on experience in system upgrades and data analysis critical for nuclear power facility enhancements.
While not mandatory for internship roles, enrollment in an ABET-accredited program and progress toward professional engineering licensure are highly valued in Wilmington’s nuclear sector. These credentials reflect essential knowledge and commitment sought by employers like Sargent & Lundy.
Wilmington hosts a niche but growing market for nuclear energy internships, with moderate competition due to specialized skill requirements. Candidates with strong mechanical engineering fundamentals and familiarity with nuclear design principles stand out in this region.
Sargent & Lundy offers mentorship from senior engineers, exposure to cutting-edge nuclear projects, and opportunities to expand technical skills. Interns gain valuable industry insight and networking connections that can pave the way for future nuclear engineering roles.
This internship uniquely blends mechanical engineering with nuclear power expertise, emphasizing design and modernization of reactors and industrial systems. The role offers exposure to pioneering clean-energy projects, setting it apart from generic mechanical internships.
Interns engage with nuclear-focused design challenges and collaborate on projects involving small modular reactors and advanced reactor technologies. The company’s longstanding reputation in nuclear engineering ensures specialized training aligned with industry standards.
The compensation range for this internship is approximately $17.50 to $27.00 per hour, reflecting the specialized skills and academic background required. This pay scale aligns with market trends for nuclear engineering internships in Wilmington, balancing competitive remuneration with developmental opportunities.
Yes, interns may indirectly contribute to international nuclear new-build initiatives and coal-to-nuclear conversion projects. This global exposure enhances understanding of diverse regulatory and technical environments, enriching the internship experience.