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Mechanical Engineering Consultant 2 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chicago, IL, 60603
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 31 December 2025
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 nuclear industry. You will work on major systems, equipment and plant process in the following areas:
- Perform consulting level work for power uprates in the nuclear industry.
- Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status.
- Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
- Manage resources/resource loading and develop estimates for task completion and budget development.
- Review calculations related to heat balances, power train pumps, heat exchangers, condenser/heat sink, and plant hazards to support client recommendations and reviews.
- Review task reports and equipment evaluations that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
- Review equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs to support the proposed power uprate.
- Evaluate vendor bids from a technical perspective.
- Interface with vendors to perform document reviews, ensure equipment compliance with specifications and needs of the plant.
- Lead and mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks.
- Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation.
- 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.
- 10+ 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:
- Power Uprates (EPU/SPU/MUR)
- Power Uprate pinch point assessments and/or task reports
- Turbine / Generator / AVR / Exciter Refurbishments
- Heat Exchanger Replacement (FWH/MSR/TFP)
- Isophase Bus Duct
- Transformer/Switchyard
- NSSS Systems
- Licensing Application
- 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
$142,710.00 - $215,440.00Transparency 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 knowledge in nuclear power uprates, including equipment optimization and system evaluations. Consultants drive enhancements in existing plants, ensuring technical compliance while managing complex engineering proposals, making it a pivotal role in advancing nuclear energy output safely.
Expertise in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer is vital, alongside proficiency in evaluating turbine retrofits and heat exchanger replacements. A background in nuclear mechanical systems and standards enhances problem-solving and supports critical safety and operational improvements.
Professionals often progress toward senior consultancy or project management roles within nuclear engineering. Opportunities include leading multi-disciplinary teams, influencing licensing applications, and engaging in innovative reactor technologies, reflecting growth in leadership and technical mastery.
Chicago’s energy sector sees steady demand for nuclear expertise due to its cluster of power generation facilities. Candidates with a decade of nuclear experience and specialized skills in uprates are highly sought after, offering strong job stability amid regional infrastructure modernization.
Illinois emphasizes compliance with NRC regulations and ASME codes for nuclear plant engineering roles. While a PE license is valued, demonstrated experience with licensing applications and safety standards in the state significantly influences recruitment decisions.
Sargent & Lundy integrates hybrid work models and a team culture recognized for benefits excellence. The role combines high-level client interfacing with mentoring responsibilities, offering a unique blend of technical leadership and flexible work-life balance in a top workplace environment.
The company provides merit scholarships, tuition assistance, and professional licensure bonuses, fostering continuous learning. Employees benefit from a collaborative atmosphere that encourages technical growth, leadership mentoring, and participation in cutting-edge reactor projects.
Salaries typically range from $142,710 to $215,440 annually, reflecting experience and specialized knowledge in nuclear power uprates. This compensation includes comprehensive benefits and potential bonuses, positioning it competitively within Chicago’s energy engineering market.
Onsite days focus on client meetings, site walkdowns, and hands-on equipment assessments essential for project validation. Remote days allow for detailed engineering proposal development, calculation reviews, and report writing, balancing technical depth with effective client communication.
These projects optimize existing plant performance, supporting carbon-free energy goals. By combining advanced engineering analysis with regulatory compliance and digital modernization, consultants play a crucial role in enhancing plant lifespans and facilitating new reactor technologies globally.