Lead Mechanical Engineer Analyst 1 - Nuclear Power Uprates
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Phoenix, AZ, 85003
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 9 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.
- Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates.
- 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:
- 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
$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
Mastering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer is essential for this role. Applying these principles enables precise evaluations of power plant systems, ensuring safe and efficient uprate projects in nuclear energy, which is vital for maintaining regulatory compliance and maximizing output.
By performing detailed system analyses, sizing equipment optimally, and reviewing heat balances, this position supports upgrades that boost plant capacity. The role integrates technical insights to refine mechanical components, directly impacting the plant’s power uprate success and operational reliability.
Experienced professionals in Phoenix benefit from a growing nuclear industry with opportunities for leadership roles. Continuous skill development in nuclear power uprates and licensing can lead to senior engineering or management positions, aligned with the region's emphasis on clean energy innovation.
While a PE license is valued, a strong academic background in mechanical engineering accredited by ABET is crucial. Local employers also prioritize familiarity with nuclear codes and standards, reflecting Arizona's regulatory environment and the technical demands of nuclear plant upgrades.
Sargent & Lundy offers a hybrid work model blending in-office collaboration with remote flexibility, coupled with comprehensive healthcare, paid leave, and financial programs. Their award-winning benefits enhance work-life balance, supporting engineers dedicated to advancing nuclear power initiatives.
The company fosters innovation and safety, encouraging mentorship and cross-functional teamwork. Engineers engage in cutting-edge nuclear projects with a focus on sustainability, benefiting from a supportive environment that values technical excellence and professional growth.
Compensation typically falls between $116,620 and $179,890 annually, reflecting the role’s seniority and specialized expertise in nuclear energy. This range aligns with Phoenix market standards for engineers working on high-impact power plant modification projects.
Phoenix sees moderate demand for nuclear engineers, driven by clean energy projects and power plant modernization. Senior roles like Lead Mechanical Engineer Analyst attract experienced talent, making specialized skills in uprates and licensing highly sought after amidst evolving energy initiatives.
Engineers often navigate complex system integrations and stringent regulatory checks during site walkdowns. Local environmental factors and aging infrastructure require adaptive problem-solving to ensure safety compliance and client satisfaction throughout uprate implementations.
This role involves directing system evaluations, crafting technical reports, optimizing equipment sizing, and mentoring junior engineers. Leading licensing basis analyses and interfacing with clients ensures projects meet stringent nuclear safety and performance standards.