Senior Mechanical Designer 2 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 16 January 2026
Description
- Under the direction of the Mechanical Project Lead, this position will offer you the opportunity to work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in developing mechanical physical layout drawings in a 3-D model
- Challenging assignments that include the design of mechanical/structural systems, and investigating, trouble-shooting, and solving a wide variety of mechanical and structural design issues
- Utilize 3D modeling software tools to generate mechanical and structural related design drawings
- Act as the Mechanical/Structural Responsible Designer in the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of an integrated mechanical design model
- Coordinate and provide guidance to other designers and project team members to ensure a complete and timely design
- Independently plan and execute design deliverables, such as general arrangements, piping isometrics, piping composites, pipe support drawings, and equipment location drawings
- There may be the opportunity to conduct field walkdowns and data gathering at client facilities
- Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced drafters and designers
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:
- An Associate's Degree in drafting, or a high school diploma and 4 or more years drafting course work or equivalent technical experience
- 12 or more years of detailed physical design experience in the development of mechanical general arrangements, piping systems, and supports
- 5 or more years of experience in the nuclear power industry
- Proficiency with design software tools in executing 3D plant layout models
- Experience in the review of mechanical equipment, including outlines and interface points, and coordinating and developing the associated deliverables
- Ability to interface with engineering and design teams of other disciplines in the power plant design process
Valued but not required experience:
- Proficiency with MicroStation
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
$82,120.00 - $128,570.00Transparency 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
Mechanical Designer 2 roles in nuclear settings usually demand extensive hands-on experience with 3D plant layout modeling, a deep understanding of nuclear power plant mechanical systems, and familiarity with industry-specific drafting standards, making them more specialized than general mechanical design positions.
At the senior level, Mechanical Designer 2 professionals often lead coordination efforts, mentor junior staff, and independently handle complex design deliverables, reflecting their advanced expertise and critical role in shaping integrated nuclear mechanical systems.
Daily tasks usually involve resolving intricate mechanical and structural issues, producing precise 3D physical layouts, and ensuring seamless interface coordination among multidisciplinary teams, all vital to maintaining strict safety and compliance in nuclear environments.
Chattanooga's nuclear sector is moderately competitive, with demand for experienced mechanical designers rising due to regional plant upgrades and clean energy initiatives, encouraging candidates to emphasize specialized skills and industry certifications to stand out.
While not always mandatory, certifications related to nuclear safety standards, proficiency in MicroStation software, and familiarity with Tennessee's regulatory environment significantly boost a candidate's appeal in Chattanooga's specialized job market.
Sargent & Lundy provides a robust benefits package including comprehensive health plans, flexible hybrid work schedules, merit scholarships, and employee referral bonuses, reflecting their commitment to employee well-being and professional growth within nuclear engineering.
The company's award-winning culture emphasizes collaboration, continuous learning, and safety, fostering an environment where senior designers can thrive by leading projects while enjoying work-life balance supported by flexible schedules and comprehensive benefits.
Salaries for this role generally fall between $82,120 and $128,570 annually, reflecting the specialized expertise required in nuclear mechanical design and the competitive compensation trends within the Chattanooga engineering job market.
Mastering 3D modeling tools is essential because it enables precise plant layout development, supports multidisciplinary coordination, and ensures that mechanical designs meet rigorous safety and regulatory standards crucial for nuclear power applications.
Professionals can anticipate growth into leadership roles overseeing multidisciplinary teams, involvement in cutting-edge reactor design projects, and opportunities to mentor emerging designers, leveraging the company's strong focus on innovation and employee development.