Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Reading, PA, 19601
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
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
- A minimum of 10 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 beneficial, but not required
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
This role demands specialized expertise in nuclear power plant systems, including handling modification packages and compliance with nuclear codes. Unlike general mechanical engineering, it requires a deep understanding of nuclear safety standards, reactor components, and experience in power industry operations, making it uniquely challenging and highly specialized.
Proficiency in mechanical design for nuclear plants, familiarity with regulatory codes, and strong analytical abilities are crucial. Additionally, experience with plant system modifications and vendor evaluations aligns well with Reading’s growing nuclear industry, enhancing career prospects in this specialized engineering niche.
Career growth can include leading larger multi-disciplinary engineering teams, specializing in advanced reactor technologies, or transitioning into project management roles. The company’s focus on innovation and nuclear modernization offers pathways to influence cutting-edge energy solutions and leadership positions.
While a PE license is advantageous, certifications related to nuclear safety standards, ASME codes, or specialized reactor technology training can significantly boost a candidate’s profile in Reading’s nuclear sector, reflecting local industry preferences for compliance and technical rigor.
Sargent & Lundy’s legacy since 1954 and focus on cutting-edge nuclear projects, including SMRs and advanced reactors, provide unique exposure. The company’s award-winning benefits and culture emphasize employee well-being, setting it apart in both technical challenges and workplace environment.
Engineers are encouraged to engage directly with clients through presentations and site visits, fostering leadership skills. The firm promotes team-leading responsibilities, blending technical expertise with client-facing communication, which is vital for complex nuclear engineering projects.
The salary spans from $116,620 to $179,890, reflecting high demand for nuclear engineering expertise in the area. This range is competitive within Pennsylvania’s energy sector, rewarding advanced skills and seniority while aligning with cost of living and specialized industry compensation.
Absolutely, Reading’s proximity to multiple nuclear facilities means engineers often engage in site visits and regulatory compliance activities specific to local plants. The region’s focus on clean energy initiatives also shapes project priorities and collaborative opportunities.
While the niche nature of nuclear engineering narrows the candidate pool, competition remains robust due to attractive salaries and career growth. Candidates with extensive power industry experience and specialized nuclear knowledge tend to stand out in Reading’s evolving job market.
Projects include digital modernization of existing plants, coal-to-nuclear conversions, and first-of-a-kind reactor restarts. These initiatives offer engineers the chance to work on pioneering nuclear technologies that advance clean energy goals and sustainability worldwide.