Senior Mechanical Engineer 2 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chicago, IL, 60603
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 1 January 2026
Description
Our electric power generation clients are seeking to increase the power output of their existing power plants to meet the electric demands. This is expanding work in the Mechanical Analysis Engineering group. You will work on major systems, equipment, and plant process in the following areas:
- Develop and lead licensing basis system and component evaluations for nuclear power uprate projects.
- This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and experience in power plant engineering.
- Perform consulting level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
- Prepare and review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
- Prepare task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
- Perform equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs to support the proposed power uprate.
- Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
- Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction.
This role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- This position requires a BSME from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
- 7+ years of experience in the nuclear power industry.
- Experience with nuclear power uprates and/or turbine retrofit projects.
- Experience and 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
- All assignments require the preparation of calculations and/or reports, and excellent technical report writing skills are essential.
- Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design.
- Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving.
- Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants.
- Proficiency with MS Office applications.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Valued but not required skills and experience:
- MSME from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background
- PE License
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
$95,840.00 - $147,870.00Transparency 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
This position demands deep expertise in nuclear power uprates, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics, tailored to Chicago's evolving energy infrastructure. Professionals here engage in licensing evaluations and power plant optimizations, reflecting the city's commitment to carbon-free energy development and regulatory compliance.
Engineers must navigate complex regulatory frameworks and integrate advanced mechanical systems while ensuring safety and efficiency. Illinois' nuclear facilities often require balancing legacy equipment with modern upgrades, demanding precise heat balance calculations and equipment optimization expertise.
This senior role emphasizes licensing basis evaluations, detailed equipment sizing, and mastery in heat transfer and fluid mechanics specific to nuclear power applications. Strong report-writing capabilities and client interfacing distinguish it from more general mechanical engineering positions.
While a PE license is valuable, practical experience with nuclear uprate projects and ABET-accredited mechanical engineering degrees remain crucial. Local regulations in Illinois also prioritize engineers familiar with nuclear codes and safety standards.
Senior Mechanical Engineers at Sargent & Lundy lead technical evaluations and collaborate closely with clients, ensuring project success in power uprates. Their contributions directly influence the company's reputation for innovation and safety in nuclear engineering.
Sargent & Lundy offers a hybrid work model and emphasizes comprehensive benefits, combining technical leadership in nuclear uprates with a supportive culture. Their focus on cutting-edge projects like SMRs and advanced reactors sets them apart locally.
In Chicago, salaries for this role generally fall between $95,840 and $147,870 annually. This range reflects the specialist nature of nuclear power engineering combined with the city's competitive energy market.
Chicago's commitment to clean energy and nuclear modernization drives steady demand for experienced mechanical engineers. This creates competitive openings with a focus on advanced power uprate projects and regulatory compliance.
Given Chicago's traffic patterns, proximity to public transit and hybrid work flexibility are key. The role's three-day in-office schedule balances commute challenges while supporting on-site collaboration essential for nuclear projects.
Chicago's nuclear sector fosters a culture of innovation and safety, with engineers engaging in team-driven problem-solving and client-focused communication. Sargent & Lundy reinforces this through flexible work arrangements and award-winning benefits.