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Senior Structural Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chattanooga, TN, 37402
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 12 January 2026
Description
This is a senior engineering position that offers a variety of interesting and challenging opportunities in structural engineering and will provide an excellent opportunity to advance your career. You will collaborate with a team of structural engineers, interface with engineers from other disciplines, and guide the work of less experienced project team members.
You will work with a structural engineering team on engineering projects for new nuclear facilities and upgrades and modifications to nuclear power plants in the following areas:
- This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of materials, structural analysis, structural steel design, and reinforced concrete design
- As a member of an engineering and design team, you will work on a wide range of projects for various clients. You will prepare and review design calculations, develop specifications, and support designers with drawing development
- Using our state-of-the-art computer tools, you will perform the structural analysis and design of steel frames, connections, concrete members, equipment and piping supports, and foundations
- Additionally, you will conduct structural analyses, which include loading conditions such as wind and seismic
There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination 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
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- BSCE with emphasis in Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited program
- 5 or more years of experience working as a member of a project team in the design and analysis of structures
- Proficiency with structural analysis software such as STAAD, SAP2000, SAFE, STRUDL, or ANSYS
- Familiarity with design codes and standards such as IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, and ACI
- Proficiency with MS Office applications.
- Good written and verbal communication skills
Valued, but not required:
- MSCE degree
- Experience with design and analysis of power plant and/or industrial structures
- On site construction support experience
- PE or SE 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
Senior structural engineers working on nuclear projects at Sargent & Lundy frequently use STAAD, SAP2000, SAFE, STRUDL, and ANSYS. Mastery of these platforms enables precise modeling and analysis of nuclear facility structures, helping ensure safety and compliance with stringent industry standards.
Chattanooga's demand for senior structural engineers in nuclear power is growing steadily, driven by regional industrial projects and energy sector investments. However, the pool of highly qualified engineers with nuclear specialization is relatively limited, making experienced candidates like those applying to Sargent & Lundy highly sought after.
This role typically requires a BSCE focused on structural engineering plus extensive experience with nuclear facility design. Advanced skills in seismic and wind loading analysis, knowledge of nuclear-specific codes, and proficiency with specialized software set it apart from general structural engineering positions.
The hybrid model balances onsite presence and remote work, enabling engineers to engage closely during critical design reviews and team meetings while leveraging flexibility for focused analysis tasks. This arrangement enhances coordination among disciplines while respecting work-life balance.
Possessing a PE or SE license is highly valued, as it demonstrates professional credibility and mastery of engineering principles critical in nuclear projects. While not mandatory, it often accelerates leadership opportunities and project responsibilities within Sargent & Lundy's nuclear engineering teams.
Salary for this senior role spans approximately $82,380 to $125,860 annually, reflecting the specialized expertise required in nuclear structural engineering. Compensation packages often include discretionary bonuses and comprehensive benefits aligned with regional market standards.
While national certifications like PE or SE are paramount, local professional societies such as the Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers can enhance networking opportunities. Familiarity with regional building codes and participation in local engineering events also strengthen candidacy.
Engineers must navigate complex regulatory environments, ensure designs withstand seismic and wind loads, and coordinate multidisciplinary inputs. Balancing safety with innovation in nuclear structures demands meticulous attention to detail and advanced analytical skills.
The company fosters a supportive culture emphasizing safety, innovation, and work-life balance. Recognition through top workplace awards and generous benefits underscore its commitment to employee well-being, creating an environment conducive to professional growth in nuclear engineering.
Progression may lead to senior project management or specialized technical leadership roles. Exposure to cutting-edge reactor technologies and international projects offers pathways to influence industry advancements and gain recognition as an expert in nuclear structural design.