Risevoic
Lead Balance of Plant Mechanical Engineer 1 - Nuclear
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Richmond, VA, 23060
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 1 January 2026
Description
You will be involved in nuclear power plant systems design, including preparation or review of:
- Engineering analyses and evaluations to support modifications and operation of plant systems, specifically, hydraulic, heat transfer, and heat balance analyses.
- Modification packages for operating nuclear power plants
- Functional mechanical drawings and/or drawings for nuclear power 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
- Previous experience with power uprates and/or turbine related systems is favorable
- 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, strict adherence to nuclear codes and standards is crucial for Balance Of Plant Mechanical Engineers. These regulations shape design and modification processes to ensure safety and compliance in nuclear power plants, requiring engineers to stay updated on federal and state nuclear guidelines specific to the region.
Locally, a PE license significantly boosts credibility for mechanical engineers in nuclear sectors. While not mandatory, certifications aligned with ASME and NRC standards are highly valued in Richmond's competitive nuclear engineering market, often influencing hiring decisions.
At Sargent & Lundy, leading mechanical engineering projects involves navigating complex nuclear plant system modifications while balancing client expectations. Challenges include coordinating multi-disciplinary teams and ensuring compliance with evolving safety standards in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.
Sargent & Lundy’s award-winning work culture emphasizes employee well-being and professional growth. This environment fosters collaboration and innovation, encouraging engineers to take initiative and lead projects while benefiting from comprehensive health and work-life balance programs.
The compensation typically spans $116,620 to $179,890 annually, reflecting experience and expertise in nuclear mechanical engineering. This range aligns with Richmond’s cost of living and industry standards, supplemented by bonuses and a robust benefits package.
This lead role uniquely combines hands-on hydraulic and heat transfer system analyses with project leadership duties. It demands a blend of technical depth in nuclear plant modifications and the ability to oversee cross-functional teams, setting it apart from purely technical or managerial roles.
Career advancement often involves expanding expertise into reactor technology, licensing, or digital modernization projects. Leadership experience gained here can pave the way toward senior engineering management or specialized consultancy roles focused on cutting-edge nuclear energy solutions.
Richmond's nuclear sector presents moderate competition due to specialized skill requirements and limited openings. Demand remains steady, driven by ongoing plant upgrades and energy transitions, but candidates with nuclear experience and PE credentials tend to stand out.
A typical misunderstanding is that the role is only technical; however, it heavily involves client interaction, cost estimation, and team leadership. Balancing engineering precision with communication skills is critical, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the position.
Richmond’s proximity to major nuclear facilities and industry hubs provides networking and project opportunities. Additionally, the region’s cost of living and quality of life make it attractive for engineers seeking a balanced career and personal lifestyle in the nuclear energy field.