Senior Mechanical Engineer Analyst 2 (Power Uprates) - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 29 December 2025
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.
- 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.
- 7 or more 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
$95,840.00 - $147,870.00Transparency 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.
Related Jobs
Top trending job titles hiring now
Popular Searches for Senior Mechanical Engineer
Frequently asked questions
Professionals in this role apply advanced thermodynamics and fluid mechanics to optimize existing nuclear power plants, enhancing output while ensuring safety. Their analyses directly contribute to increased energy efficiency and compliance with stringent nuclear industry standards.
With extensive experience in nuclear power uprates and system evaluations, these engineers can advance toward senior technical leadership, project management, or specialized licensing roles, leveraging their expertise in cutting-edge nuclear technologies and regulatory compliance.
Critical skills include mastery of heat transfer calculations, expertise in power train components, adeptness in preparing technical reports, and familiarity with nuclear codes. This combination ensures accurate system assessments and client-focused engineering solutions.
The hybrid model balances in-office collaboration three days weekly with two days remote flexibility, supporting productivity while fostering team integration. This arrangement accommodates complex project demands common to nuclear power uprate initiatives.
Beyond competitive pay, the company offers comprehensive healthcare, merit scholarships, and licensure bonuses. These perks, combined with a culture recognized for excellence, support career development and personal well-being in a demanding technical field.
Local employers highly value certifications like the PE license and specialized nuclear safety credentials. These qualifications enhance credibility in regulatory environments and improve competitiveness in Chattanooga’s growing nuclear engineering market.
Salaries generally span from approximately $95,800 to $147,900 annually, reflecting experience, technical expertise, and project complexity. This aligns with industry standards for senior roles in nuclear power engineering within the region.
Demand is steady due to ongoing plant modernization and uprate projects, yet competition remains moderate given the specialized skill set required. Candidates with strong thermodynamics and nuclear licensing knowledge have an advantage locally.
Sargent & Lundy emphasizes integrated licensing basis evaluations alongside technical consulting, combining rigorous regulatory compliance with hands-on mechanical system optimization. This dual focus distinguishes their analysts in the nuclear power uprate niche.
Analysts must navigate complex system interactions, maintain strict adherence to nuclear codes, and communicate effectively with diverse teams and clients. Balancing technical precision with project timelines in a hybrid setting adds to the role’s dynamic demands.