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Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Richmond, VA, 23060
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
In Richmond, VA, a Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 in nuclear roles plays a pivotal part in ensuring mechanical designs adhere strictly to nuclear safety codes. Their expertise directly influences operational integrity and compliance, helping to maintain safe, reliable plant systems amid local regulatory frameworks.
Virginia's nuclear engineering demands familiarity with ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code and NRC regulations. Mastery of these standards equips engineers to design compliant modifications that withstand rigorous inspections, ensuring the mechanical integrity of nuclear plant systems.
While not mandatory, a PE license enhances credibility and unlocks leadership opportunities in Virginia’s nuclear sector. It signals proficiency in mechanical engineering principles and regulatory compliance, often leading to greater responsibility in project approvals and client communications.
Sargent & Lundy's legacy in nuclear innovation means engineers tackle cutting-edge projects like SMRs and reactor restarts. This environment demands adaptability to novel technologies and multi-disciplinary collaboration, differing from firms focused solely on conventional power plant maintenance.
The company fosters growth by entrusting engineers with project team leadership and client engagement responsibilities. Their culture emphasizes mentoring, technical skill expansion, and exposure to high-impact nuclear initiatives, nurturing well-rounded engineering leaders.
Sargent & Lundy offers a competitive salary between $116,620 and $179,890 for Lead Mechanical Engineer 1 roles in Richmond. This range reflects the specialized expertise required in nuclear mechanical design, coupled with comprehensive benefits promoting work-life balance.
Beyond standard ABET accreditation, certifications like Nuclear Quality Assurance (NQA-1) and familiarity with NRC licensing processes are valued in Richmond's nuclear sector. These credentials demonstrate readiness to navigate regional compliance and quality expectations.
Richmond’s growing emphasis on clean energy and reactor modernization boosts demand for nuclear mechanical engineers. While competition exists nationally, local projects tied to government partnerships and advanced reactor tech create unique opportunities for specialized candidates.
This position involves leading complex mechanical design assessments, overseeing modification packages, and coordinating vendor evaluations specific to nuclear plants. Unlike general engineering roles, it requires deep regulatory insight and strategic decision-making impacting nuclear safety.
Starting as a Mechanical Engineer 1, professionals can progress to project lead and senior engineering roles by gaining expertise in nuclear codes, mastering project management, and demonstrating leadership in high-stakes plant modifications, especially within innovative nuclear technology sectors.