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Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Description
You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:
- Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
- Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power plant systems
- Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems
- Technical specifications and procurement documents for plant equipment
- Vendor bid evaluations for plant equipment
- Studies and options evaluations for modifications to operating nuclear power plants
In addition, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop engineering cost estimates for small to mid-sized client-requested work scopes
- Visit client office and/or plant site locations to interface with the client and make presentations related to engineering tasks and status
- Lead engineering project teams
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.
- BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
- 10 or more years of experience in the power industry
- Working knowledge of codes, standards, and regulations that apply to mechanical engineering design of nuclear power plants
- PE license is preferred
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
In Chattanooga's nuclear sector, a Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 uniquely focuses on complex system modifications and compliance with nuclear regulations, unlike general mechanical engineering jobs. This role demands deep expertise in nuclear plant design and safety standards, reflecting the city's specialized energy industry landscape.
Leading engineering teams at Sargent & Lundy involves coordinating multidisciplinary experts on nuclear projects, balancing strict regulatory compliance with innovation. Expect to navigate client interactions, prioritize safety, and guide technical deliverables under tight schedules, all while fostering collaboration in a hybrid work environment.
Essential skills include mastery of nuclear-specific codes and mechanical design standards, proficiency in creating functional drawings for power plants, and expertise in vendor evaluations. Experience with engineering analyses that ensure system reliability in nuclear environments is also crucial for success.
Chattanooga's growing emphasis on clean energy and nuclear facility upgrades has boosted demand for experienced mechanical engineers in the nuclear field. This creates competitive opportunities, especially for those adept at navigating regional regulations and contributing to sustainable energy initiatives.
Beyond the PE license, certifications related to nuclear safety, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code familiarity, and project management credentials can significantly improve prospects in Tennessee. Regional employers highly value professionals who demonstrate commitment to both engineering excellence and regulatory compliance.
Sargent & Lundy offers a competitive salary range between $116,620 and $179,890, complemented by award-winning benefits like comprehensive healthcare, paid leave, and professional development bonuses. This package reflects their commitment to work-life balance and industry-leading employee support.
The company encourages growth through challenging nuclear projects, leadership roles on cross-functional teams, and continuous learning opportunities. Their merit scholarship and tuition assistance programs help engineers expand expertise, while exposure to cutting-edge reactor technologies fosters long-term professional development.
Daily tasks involve reviewing and preparing mechanical system modification packages, assessing technical specifications, conducting engineering analyses, and collaborating with vendors and clients. The role requires meticulous attention to nuclear safety standards and effective communication across project teams.
The position requires in-office presence three days a week, balancing on-site collaboration with remote work flexibility. This hybrid model supports productivity while fostering team engagement and client interaction, aligning well with current professional expectations in Chattanooga’s engineering sector.