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Senior Mechanical Engineer 1 (Nuclear Plant Analysis) - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 16 January 2026
Description
- This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and experience in power plant engineering
- You will be preparing or reviewing calculations, evaluations, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews, and will additionally conduct equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to client needs
- While supporting clients and project teams with other Mechanical Engineers, you will be involved in system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of nuclear power plant mechanical systems
- Interface with clients and project teams to present technical discussions and project status
- Develop engineering proposals and cost estimates
- Mentor junior engineering staff on power plant engineering technical tasks
- There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for meetings and field verification of designs
This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.
Qualifications
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
- 5 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry
- 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
$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
Chattanooga's nuclear sector is moderately competitive, with growing demand for engineers skilled in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics. Candidates with nuclear power industry experience, especially those familiar with local regulations, tend to have an edge due to ongoing projects and modernization efforts in the region.
While a PE license isn't mandatory, having one significantly boosts credibility in Tennessee's nuclear industry. Additionally, familiarity with NRC regulations and ASME codes enhances employability, reflecting local safety standards essential for nuclear plant engineering roles.
Mastery in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics is crucial. Proficiency in technical report writing, system engineering design, and practical application of nuclear codes distinguishes top performers. Emphasizing numerical problem-solving skills also aids in tackling complex plant optimization challenges.
Advancement often follows transitioning from technical specialist to project leadership roles, including nuclear licensing or plant project engineering. Many progress towards managerial positions overseeing multi-disciplinary teams or move into strategic roles in reactor design and regulatory compliance.
With a compensation bracket between $82,380 and $125,860, Sargent & Lundy offers competitive pay aligned with Chattanooga’s market. This range reflects the specialized nuclear expertise required and includes benefits that complement base salary, positioning it well against regional industry standards.
Employees gain exposure to cutting-edge nuclear technologies such as SMRs and advanced reactors, plus involvement in international new-build projects. The role offers hybrid work flexibility, mentorship chances, and participation in pioneering clean energy initiatives emphasizing safety and innovation.
Sargent & Lundy emphasizes hybrid schedules, extensive project variety including coal-to-nuclear conversions, and strong mentorship programs. Their commitment to employee well-being and award-winning benefits creates a distinctive culture compared to other local nuclear employers.
The hybrid model blends on-site collaboration three days a week with remote work, enabling focused design analysis and report preparation. This balance supports hands-on client interaction, design reviews, and field verification while maintaining productivity and flexibility.
Challenges include navigating stringent regulatory frameworks, ensuring adherence to safety codes, and addressing the technical complexities of aging plant systems. Engineers must also adapt to evolving digital modernization efforts and client-specific project demands prevalent in the region.