Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Charlotte, NC, 28209
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 13 January 2026
Description
Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source. Our electric power generation clients are digitizing their existing power plants and building new nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR). This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group. You will work on major process controls engineering projects in the following areas:
- Digital Systems -- PLC, DCS, Touchscreen displays, network switches and control systems
- Functional Requirement and Procurement Specifications for instrumentation and control components and systems
- Process instrumentation replacement evaluation reports and nuclear modification packages
- Mechatronics, Control Systems for pumps, valves, heat exchangers, steam turbines and reactors
- Development of P&ID’s and System Design Descriptions
- 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
- Support station outage activities as required
This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.
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
- 5 or more 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
Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineers in nuclear settings focus on designing, evaluating, and maintaining complex control systems critical to nuclear plant safety and efficiency. Their expertise spans digital systems, mechatronics, and nuclear-specific instrumentation, distinguishing them from general electrical or mechanical engineers.
In Charlotte's nuclear sector, mastering PLCs, DCS, and process control systems is vital, alongside knowledge of nuclear power plant instrumentation for BWR or PWR reactors. Familiarity with local regulatory standards and hybrid work dynamics also enhances success in this role.
Senior Controls Engineers often progress into lead engineering roles, project management, or nuclear systems consultancy. Their deep technical knowledge opens paths to overseeing multi-disciplinary teams, driving innovations in nuclear digital modernization and safety compliance.
Sargent & Lundy integrates cutting-edge digital systems and advanced reactor technologies into this role, fostering involvement in small modular reactors and commercial reactor restarts. Their commitment to sustainability and safety shapes a forward-looking engineering environment.
This position at Sargent & Lundy offers mentorship responsibilities, exposure to pioneering nuclear projects, and a hybrid work model, all of which accelerate skill development and leadership capabilities within a globally recognized nuclear engineering firm.
The salary for this role ranges from $82,380 to $125,860 annually, complemented by a comprehensive benefits package including healthcare, retirement plans, and paid leave. Bonus eligibility and merit-based incentives further enhance total compensation.
While ABET-accredited degrees are essential, certifications like NERC or NRC compliance training can increase competitiveness in Charlotte's nuclear engineering market. Familiarity with regional safety standards and hybrid work practices also plays a key role.
Charlotte exhibits growing demand for nuclear engineers driven by investments in plant modernization and SMR projects. However, competition remains strong due to the specialized skill set required, making relevant experience and certifications crucial.
Balancing on-site collaboration three days weekly with remote work allows engineers to engage directly with plant systems and clients while enjoying flexible productivity. This setup supports thorough project oversight and personal work-life balance.
Challenges include ensuring compliance with stringent nuclear safety standards, integrating legacy systems with digital controls, and managing complex instrumentation for critical components like turbines and reactors, all while mentoring junior engineers.